In the last article we saw how to bluff in the game of Texas Hold’Em and when it is convenient to try to win with this road. Any veteran of poker will tell you that to be a good player you have to think of many things during the game. In this article we will discuss three important psychological concepts, which can make the difference between a winning or a losing bluff: tilts, hands and reading the situations. With the right amount of practice and skill you can become a world-class bluffer.
When players make mistakes, something that disturbs them emotionally, it is said that they are on tilt. An example is when a player is a big favourite for a hand, but instead he loses, often as a result of the fact that an opponent has a “miracle card”. That player becomes so emotionally upset that begins to make bad decisions.
Another example that makes sometimes the players go in tilt, is when an opponent is strong, annoying or rude. Players who are on tilt react in many different ways, such as making strong bets on weak hands. It is important to understand when one of your opponents is in tilt, but it is more important to understand when you yourself are on tilt, in order to understand how not to let emotions take over.
We must recognize that it is easier for some to go in tilt than others. If you think you are in tilt, but are not sure, then a way that might help you to understand is to keep a detailed log of game sessions. Another thing to watch out is that if you start playing weaker hands than is how you usually play.
Be careful to always play carefully and keep in mind that you can win big money.