Joe Navarro Teaches "Tells"

[stacy123]

Joe Navarro is one of six instructors who will be speaking at a World Series of Poker Academy seminar Nov. 7 and 8 at Caesars Palace. This is an instructional camp and precedes the final table of the 2008 World Series main event set for Nov. 9 and 10. Joe Navarro teaches poker players, professionals and novices about "Tells".

What is a "tell" you may wonder. It is body movements and expressions that a player does while playing. It is non-verbal.

Here is an example of a tell:

When a guy pushes all of his chips into the middle of the table (going all in) making his opponent make a big decision about his money. After pushing the chips in, he reclines in his seat, relaxing. He may part his legs and have his arms spread out over the backs of two chairs. He looks as though he is enjoying an afternoon of football on the television. This is a "Tell." This usually means he has what he needs to rake all the chips in.

Joe Navarro spent 25 years with the FBI specializing in nonverbal communication and behavior analysis. He says studying "tells" can make the difference between earning a championship bracelet and missing out on one.

The November academy focuses on advanced techniques in no-limit Texas hold 'em, the form of poker in which expertise in spotting tells can be particularly useful.

[beaston]

Originally Posted by stacy123

After pushing the chips in, he reclines in his seat, relaxing. He may part his legs and have his arms spread out over the backs of two chairs. He looks as though he is enjoying an afternoon of football on the television. This is a "Tell." This usually means he has what he needs to rake all the chips in.

This is true, for not-very-experienced players

But, for a seasoned player, this act can work to their advantage if they pushed all in with 5 high against a beginner! Just remember this, and don't accept a blatant tell at face value.

Mike Caro (nickname: the mad genius) is one of the best when it comes to picking up tells, and trying to figure out if someone is acting or not. I've read his book "Caro's Book of Poker Tells," and it helped my live game immensely. Even the slightest actions can give your hand away, if you're not careful.

One great tip is to watch the other player(s) when the dealer is turning over the flop, turn or river. The key is to see if your opponent reacts to the cards being laid out. You can always see what's on the board afterwards. This usually applies to hands that only 2-3 players are in. Any more than that and it's not really worth it unless you know the other players don't have anything, or you've made the best hand.