Poker isn’t just about the cards you’re dealt—it’s also about reading your opponents and using their actions against them. One of the most valuable skills in poker is spotting “tells”—subtle clues that reveal a player’s hand strength, confidence, or nerves.
At DEWAKOIN, we’ll break down the most common poker tells, how to use them to your advantage, and how to avoid giving away your own signals.
1. What Are Poker Tells?
A poker tell is a physical or behavioral clue that gives insight into a player’s hand. These tells can be:
- Physical – Changes in breathing, facial expressions, or hand movements.
- Verbal – The way a player speaks or reacts to bets.
- Betting Patterns – How a player bets when they have a strong or weak hand.
Tip: The best players use tells to predict their opponents’ moves while keeping their own emotions hidden.
2. Common Poker Tells and How to Exploit Them
1. Shaky Hands = A Strong Hand
- Nervous excitement can cause a player’s hands to shake.
- How to use it: If an opponent’s hands tremble while placing a bet, they likely have a strong hand.
2. Sudden Stillness = A Bluff
- Some players freeze when bluffing, afraid that movement will give them away.
- How to use it: If an opponent who was previously active suddenly goes silent, they might be bluffing.
3. Quick, Strong Bets = Confidence
- Confident players tend to bet aggressively and quickly.
- How to use it: If a player snap-bets, they likely have a strong hand—proceed with caution.
4. Delayed Action = Weakness or a Bluff
- A long pause before betting can indicate indecision.
- How to use it: If an opponent takes too long, they might be unsure about their hand.
5. Glancing at Chips = A Sign of Strength
- Players often glance at their chips when they hit a strong hand, subconsciously preparing to bet.
- How to use it: If you catch someone peeking at their chips, they might have a strong hand.
3. How to Hide Your Own Poker Tells
Just as you watch your opponents, they are watching you. Here’s how to stay unreadable:
✔️ Control your breathing – Keep it steady, even when excited.
✔️ Keep betting consistent – Don’t change your patterns based on your hand.
✔️ Use reverse tells – Fake nervousness with a strong hand to mislead opponents.
✔️ Wear sunglasses or a hat – Hide facial expressions that might give away information.
Tip: The best poker players mix up their tells to keep opponents guessing.
4. Online Poker Tells: Can You Still Read Opponents?
Even in online poker, tells exist. Look for:
- Betting speed – A quick bet often signals strength.
- Chat behavior – A talkative player might be bluffing.
- Bet sizing – Overly large or small bets can indicate uncertainty.
Tip: At DEWAKOIN, you can practice reading online poker tells in live dealer games!
5. Final Thoughts: Master the Art of Poker Tells
✔️ Reading poker tells can give you an edge, but always consider multiple factors before making a decision.
✔️ Avoid relying too much on one tell—smart players will mix up their behavior.
✔️ Practice is key! The more you play, the better you’ll become at spotting and using tells to your advantage.
Ready to put your poker skills to the test? Join DEWAKOIN today and play against real opponents in live poker games!