We all know that it's very important for a poker player to keep a so-called poker face. A poker face is referred to as a need of the poker player to conceal their emotions as best as possible. It is also a commonly misunderstood term, because poker face refers not only to ones face but to the entire body.
Why is a poker face so important you might think? It is because other poker payers look at your expression and your emotion in your eyes while looking at your cards. This might reveal possible aces or bad cards, thus making it unable for you to bluff your way out of your bad set of cards.
Here are some tips and tricks to master that poker face and win as many poker games as possible.
Keep your face as stern as possible for it might impress opponents. Many poker players often use eye-glasses to conceal their emotions in their eyes, because believe it or not, human pupils get 45% bigger when they look at something they like.
Remember to stay calm every time cards are distributed as well as when you pick them up. It is important here to always have the same facial and body expression when you look at your cards, so that opponents won't fold if they notice a change.
Try to avoid mannerisms like chewing your nails or ticking your cards or chips, because this is a sign of nervousness for the other players. As much as possible try not to look around too much for this too is a sign of nervousness and avoidance. Talking about avoidance, keep in mind that you should never avoid other players stares. Look them straight in the eye if they look at you and instead of loosing your cool, try to intimidate them.
If the situation is too tense for you, you could put in some icebreakers by saying some threats like "This is your end," or "I'm going to get you." But never act sad if you have good cards or vice versa, because a good player will definitely see through you. Also never reveal to any player that you know that anyone might be bluffing. This will make you a predictable and vulnerable player.
Probably the most important thing is that you also try to watch the other players, how they act and react, and you could even make them nervous if they realize that they are under your constant watch. If you are having problem with being serious all the time, try smiling all the time instead. Smiling might not gain you more respect with other players, but it is sure easier to do.
For the "poker face checklist" you need a dark pair of glasses that make your eyes invisible to other poker players, a little practice time in front of the mirror to make sure you know how to control mannerisms, and a cap to hide your face if you are very nervous. Do not worry all too much during the game, because the other players will never be able to tell 100% whether you are bluffing or not.