In poker, reading nonverbal cues is extremely important. It is yet another reason why the game is rather like a sociological study, not to mention a psychological one.
At one time or another, pretty much every poker has had some kind of tell. Some players chew their nails when they are waiting to build their hand or when they are worried; some cover their mouths to hide smiles or frowns, depending on how good their hand is; others may simply scratch their ears, tug their hair, even drum their fingers on the table.
Look for patterns. Look for leitmotifs, repeating themes.
If you can tell what an opponent does when he or she has a good or bad hand, you may be able to open up the game for yourself.
