by SMT

Created on: January 28, 2009   Last Updated: February 02, 2009

The term "poker face" is somewhat misleading as it implies a lack of expression only on your face to conceal the relative strength or weakness of the hand you are holding. Mike Caro's "Book of Poker Tells" was the first substantial work written by a non-PhD in psychology that delves into the wonderful world of player tells and how a player's entire body; not just their face, can betray them and act as a traitor feeding the enemy (other player's) with critical information.

As a new generation of on-line players cut their teeth on a virtual platform, and then attempt to apply what they have learned in a live ring game, they come to the harsh realization that what you say or don't say, and how your movements or lack of movement gives other players information that they can and will use against you. Not only is it important to learn the fundamental and technical aspects of the game, but to be competitive in a live game one must become an expert at body language and psychology. Putting both components together is a hallmark of winning, profitable players.

Caro asserts that "Players are either acting or they aren't. If they are acting, then decide what they want to do and disappoint them." Wow, sounds easy enough, spot their tell and punish them, right? Not really. Poker is best described as a subtle, dynamic game that is filled with many nuances. There is no manual that says if player "A" does this; it must mean he has "B". It should come as no shock that everyone plays different, particularly as players become more adept at maneuvering around the game. Figuring out non-verbal cues is often times very difficult in higher stakes and more skilled games, and those player's give away nothing. From that standpoint, discussion will be framed as common mistakes new players make, so as to identify cues from other, less experienced players and or become more aware and mindful of your own actions while at the table.

Playing on a regular basis has afforded me many observed behaviors that have helped me comparatively determine the strength or weakness of my hands, and make important play decisions. These are common mistakes that new player's make when it comes to blowing their "poker face" cover:

Posture Changes - If a player is slumping in their chair or is more interested in the golf game on TV before their cards are dealt, and they all the sudden perk up straight after viewing their hole cards, proceed with making a raise into the pot and become interested and engaged in the

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