What is a Great Poker Face?

Lady Gaga’s song Poker Face is all over the radio these days. She
may think hers is good but what really makes up a great poker face? I
still get the butterflies when I sit down at a poker table. Each table
has different players, a different dealer, and if you go to more then
one casino different house rules. This new environment makes you nervous
and excited at the same time. So, how do you make sure you keep this
excitement under wraps with a great poker face? I will go over some easy
tips that will help you keep that face that not even Dr. Cal Lightman
will be able to read.

Relax

This might seem obvious, but it
can be one of the hardest parts of keeping a great poker face. Remember
those butterflies I was talking about? You want to find a way to get rid
of these as soon as you sit down at the table. Remind yourself that you
are only playing a game and that you have the proper knowledge to be
successful. Remember that you will always play better when you are
relaxed.

Play at the Right Level

Okay, so I talked about how
you should remind yourself that you have the proper knowledge to be
successful; well you have to make sure that you’re not playing over your
head to make sure this is true. Choice a table and stakes that you feel
comfortable playing. If you are betting with more money then you feel
you can afford then you will never be relaxed and your face will show
it. These ingredients do not make for a great poker face.

Talk
Normally

You will be surprise at how many players will talk
different at the tables then off. It can be obvious at times, they will
try and get into others players heads. I can tell you that 95% of these
people are no good at it. In most cases they are just giving other
players at the table tells rather then really tricking anyone. Talk in a
normal voice and have normal conversation, don’t try anything tricky it
will most likely end up back firing on you. This will also help keep
you relaxed.

Be Apathetic

This is easy to do if you have a
strong strategy and system for playing. If you already know how you’re
going to play you can keep a very apathetic approach to the game. This
will allow you to keep a straight face and stay relaxed. Your expression
should show to the other players that you don’t care what they do; your
going to make the right decision ever time. You want to portray
yourself as the expert who knows there next move already.

Body
Language

Your face is not the only part of your body that you need
to worry about. Lots of players get themselves in trouble with their
hands as well. You don’t want to get caught pulling at your hair,
touching your face, taping, or fiddling with your chips. These can all
be tells. Keep your hands on the table unless you are looking at your
cards, folding or betting. Never try and look like you have a bad hand
when you are bluffing other players, they will see through this and call
you.

You Can Beat Anyone

Never let other players get into
your head. I don’t care if your heads up with Phil Ivy, poker is a game
where anyone can win. Yes, you should be mindful of the skill level of
the other players at the table, but never let this make you nervous. The
cards still have to be flopped and the bets placed, that’s why poker is
one of the most popular card games in the world.

Conclusion

If
you want a better poker face then Lady Gaga follow these simple rules
and other players will never be able to get a tell on you. A great poker
face is not just about fooling other players but it is just as
important to be relaxed and confident about your game plan. If you have
these two things you will not only have a great poker face but you will
be successful at the tables.