Reverse Tells and How to Use Them

Poker tells are physical or behavioral cues that reveal information about a player’s hand strength. But skilled players sometimes use reverse tells—deliberate actions designed to confuse or mislead opponents. Mastering the art of giving and Master Poker Vietnam interpreting reverse tells can give you a psychological edge at the poker table, helping you manipulate others and avoid being manipulated yourself.

What Are Reverse Tells?

A reverse tell is a conscious or semi-conscious action designed to give false information about your hand. Instead of naturally revealing your emotions, you project a fake tell to create a misleading narrative.

Example of a Classic Reverse Tell

A player dramatically sighs and reluctantly pushes chips into the pot, pretending they’re uncertain or weak—when in reality, they’re holding a monster hand and hoping for a call.

Common Types of Reverse Tells

Acting Weak When Strong

Players often pretend to be uncomfortable, hesitant, or disinterested when holding a very strong hand to encourage calls.

Fake sighing before betting.
Shrugging shoulders as if unsure.
Avoiding eye contact to appear weak.

Acting Strong When Weak

Conversely, players bluff by projecting confidence and strength.

Staring down opponents.
Throwing chips into the pot aggressively.
Talking excessively to distract attention.

Delayed Actions

A delayed bet or call might be designed to look thoughtful, masking the fact that the player already made up their mind.

Tank-betting a strong hand to appear conflicted.
Delaying a weak fold to pretend they had a difficult decision.

How to Spot Reverse Tells

Identifying a reverse tell requires observation and critical thinking. Ask yourself: “Does this action fit with the player’s overall behavior or does it seem exaggerated?”

Questions to Ask During a Hand

Is this behavior consistent with how this player normally acts?
Does the action seem overly theatrical or forced?
Are they showing a behavior change only in this hand?

Be cautious—some players are skilled at blending genuine tells and reverse tells.

How to Use Reverse Tells in Your Own Play

Reverse tells work best when used sparingly and strategically. Overuse will make you predictable and eventually exploited.

Best Practices for Using Reverse Tells

Use them against observant opponents who are likely to pick up on behavioral cues.
Keep your acting subtle. Over-the-top fake tells are easy to spot.
Mix reverse tells into your overall game plan, not as your only strategy.

Example Situations

On the river with a strong hand, act hesitant and bet smaller to induce a call.
During a bluff, confidently grab chips and bet quickly to project strength.