Poker Face: The Art of Deception

As all poker enthusiasts know, the art of the poker face is essential for success. A pure definition of the term refers to the idea that such a face is one that lacks any expression that others can figure out. An expert poker player is therefore one who can easily hide his or her real feelings about their hand.

The creation and use of a "poker face" is an ability to project mystery, misleading messages, and even hesitation or doubt through nonverbal messages. Many poker players learn this art over time, given that it takes practice and is a skill not readily acquired. The challenge also involves creating your emotions while at the same time, being able to read others. Many ploys are used to conceal a player’s real motives when performing such actions as taking a card, raising, or calling.

Many players are highly skilled in delivering such misleading messages by hesitating or expressing certain emotions such as resignation or an air of confidence. In all cases, faces are designed to totally conceal true emotion or give hints that convey misleading ones.

With the rapid growth of the online poker industry, the art of the poker face has become less applicable. While reading faces and body language is no longer required in such as format, some psychological tactics can be used. While some online players strive for consistency in order to mask their intentions, others use bluffing and strategic folding to confuse others. Such pros as Doyle Brunson, Chip Reese, and Annie Duke have developed highly successful online game strategies and an advantageous use of poker psychology.

The reality is that understanding body language is absolutely necessary for success in poker and can make the difference between winning and losing. The use of expression adds the element of skill to the game. Such skill is mainly composed of reading an opponent’s body language, keeping one’s own in check, and using a comfortable level of lying and bluffing.

Practice reading people's emotions and body language by watching players in casinos. In online poker rooms watch how long it takes for a player to react, see what a player posts in the chat, try to read all the details. Read about poker tells here.

To learn more strategies to use with your poker face click here.