So you want to play poker like a pro? This article should be helpful in learning one of the most fundamental strategies in poker – reading your opponents. Poker isn’t just about the luck of the draw. It is a manipulative game of psychology. So here are a few basic tips on how to psychoanalyze your opponent. Not only can you pick up on the tell tale signs of bluffing, but you can consciously learn to avoid them yourself.

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Of course, to be able to play a game like a pro, you need to have professional poker tables. Some excellent, custom-designed poker tables are available for those inclined!

The first lesson is to watch how the chips are put down. Psychologically speaking, if an opponent puts down his chips close to him, he is sure of his hand. If he forcefully puts down his chips further away, he may be bluffing and compensating for it by showing “surety” by laying down his chips confidently.

Another good idea is to understand the body language of your opponents. Often people give a sign when they’re bluffing – a twitch of the eye, touching of the face, flared nostrils – anything done consistently when bluffing can give you the edge you need in the game to raise your stakes.

That being said, don’t confuse shaking as a sign of weakness – in fact, try to take everything in opposites. Often times, when your opponent is acting confident, staring you down, he might be hiding something. So, don’t get intimidated, show him whose boss at poker!