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Jun 30
2010
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Reading Online Poker TellsPosted by Thomas Kearns in Untagged |
"A tell" or "tells" are body language which has the potential to reveal information concerning the opponent's hand. Keeping a good eye open for it is a fun challenge and something you should learn to do. It may decide the outcome of the game like nothing else and it keeps you from fidgeting. When your opponent vigorously tosses their chips during a live game, or fidgets with their chips, licks their dry lips, glances aside, or scratches behind the ear you may earn cash with systematic observation which may lead to valuable insight. Such a technique to the uninitiated may seem like black magic, but it is heavily replied upon by many professionals.
Things look different, however, online, to say the least. In fact you don't seem to see anything at first glance. An image or photograph (not necessarily the actual player), from animated portraits to brains in vats, or perhaps just a blank is all there is to represent the players. Is it possible then to "read" online?
The first thing to realize is that your own hand is likewise readable online, even if it's Homer Simpson with a hand of pink glazed doughnuts that you have uploaded as the online image of yourself. Online tells are primarily the speed with which a player makes his bets. The most basic available way to bet, raise, call, or pass in an online game is by clicking the appropriate button when it is the player's turn. The other possibility is to mark the box of the action beforehand (bet/raise, etc), so that when it is your turn, the move is made instantly and automatically.
Online when a player takes a long time to "think" and then says check they are probably trying to convince you that they have good cards. A weak hand may be suspected by "pondering". It's as if investing a significant sum was considered. So they can have the next card for free they are actually in hopes that you will check as well. Normally a person will say check after a natural pause if he really intends to "check/raise", and then make a raise equal to the last bet. Strength may be implied after prolonged pondering of a bet. A player suggests weakness by "wavering" while making an aggressive bet, enticing you to call.
Those likely to have a strong hand are those who immediately make bets or raises. Weakness may be suggested by deliberate aggressiveness but in many cases the situation is reversed. The player hopes to bully you into believing that he would have never raised so rashly if he had worthwhile cards. "Reverse psychology" is the trick, a show to intimidate you into an unnecessary call.
With deceptive gradualness, some players use the "check/raise" button to play what is probably a very strong hand. While you are enticed to make an aggressive move when what seems like a hurried check is followed by a raise. Beware, the opponent's hand was probably much stronger than you thought it was and the check was more than likely a trap!
These mere tips may give you some idea of how to observe your online opponent's habits and mannerisms. Take the time to observe players carefully, they probably betray other more individualized tells, especially those with whom you have been playing for a while. Some players may also try to make it impossible to guess their hands by deliberately timing their response or by persistently taking equal time to respond in all cases. For you to learn to do the same may be a good idea.
About the Author:
The author is a successful limit cash game player. He plays poker online and receives Betfair Rakeback as well as Rakeback at Ultimate Bet.



