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Bluffing Made Easy
(July 28, 2006)
Bluffing is clearly one of the most famous aspects of poker and its importance cannot be denied or understated. Yet, many amateur poker players don’t know how to bluff properly. The art of bluffing takes years to master, but there are a number of things to consider now which will improve your chances of pulling off a successful poker bluff.
1) A busted bluff is not the end of the world. In fact, it has several positive spin-offs. For example, the next time you have a strong hand, you will likely see more callers who will assume that you are bluffing again. It’s unrealistic to expect that every bluff will succeed, so turn the failed bluffs into something positive.
2) Don’t underestimate the value of the semi-bluff. With a draw hand, you still have a chance to get the right card to win the pot in the event that your bluff fails to scare off your opponents. In this case bluffing is not so “all-or-nothing”.
3) Before any bluff is attempted, you need to consider what type of table you are sitting at. Are the opponents showing any tendency towards loose or tight play? You want to aim your bluff at mediocre players who are more likely to fear your hand. Beginners are reckless and prone to making uninformed calls, while experienced players are likely to call just to get a read on how you play.
4) Bluffing comes down to making your opponents believe something which is not true. In this sense, it is a lot like acting. Some people are naturally gifted, while others struggle to convince anyone of anything. An important thing to remember is not to force it. So many amateur players make such a production out of their bluff that they inevitably give themselves away. Try to keep your demeanor calm and consistent with that of previous hands. Excessive chatter is one of the first signs that someone is trying to bluff, so be careful not to overindulge.
5) Always consider your “table image” before attempting a bluff. How are the other players viewing your style of play? Loose or tight? Have you displayed a tendency towards recklessness? If so, your bluff will be difficult to hold up and you may find yourself being called, whereas the bluff of another player who has shown caution and patience will be respected.
Some final thoughts on the art of bluffing:
Interestingly many experts believe that bluffing is an overrated aspect of poker. You may or not agree, although it’s important to nonetheless acknowledge the practice’s importance and the fact that every good player is a good bluffer. Many amateurs feel that they must bluff well and bluff frequently if they are to be successful. The deceptive element of the game is certainly important, but not fundamental. In order to be a truly effective bluffer, one needs to demonstrate to the others at the table that a strong hand is likely to follow a call. Without the poker skills to back yourself up on subsequent hands, a bluff is completely ineffective. A frivolous and reckless player will have their bluffs called more frequently and the credibility that is the basis of any strong player will be undermined. Keep this in mind when trying your bluffs at the table.
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