When you receive your cards, only look at them once during the hand and remember their suits. This will protect you from giving off tells to observant players. There’s nothing more revealing than a player checking to see if he has a certain suit when there’s three on the flop.
If you’re facing a tough call on the river with only one pair (and you think it’s good), show your opponent the card you think beats him. Watch the corners of his mouth. If one of them raises up slightly, like a brief smile, you’ve probably got the best of it.
If you know a player thinks highly of your game or generally stays out of your way, watch out if they call your bet on the flop. They most likely have a big hand and are waiting to see a safe turn or bring along a few stragglers before committing any more money.
If you are struggling with a tough call or raise and your opponent unprovoked begins talking you, he’s probably got one hell of a hand. Players often open their mouths when they think you’re about to fold, hoping to get you back on the hook.
Some players are notorious tilters. Against this player if you find yourself taking the worst of it on a big draw with no chance of getting paid when you get there (i.e. calling his all-in), it may be worth it to take the negative equity (i.e. go ahead and draw) with the hope that when you hit you’ll make up for it later when he tilts.
