Becoming an Information Gatherer

The more you observe, the more information your internal database will contain, and you can compare subjects. Your sub-conscious will eventually handle much of this process, but initially, it may seem like an inordinate amount of work.

The good news is that there is typically plenty of downtime while playing and you have little important to do but observe your opponents.

Take advantage of that time. For some of you, this may be drastically different from what comes naturally. Be aware that you may find yourself drifting away from your objective. Just keep going back to the practice of poring over each opponent and eventually it will become easier and more natural.

One of the tools you must be careful about using is interrogation. Many people will become defensive if they feel as if you are scrutinizing them. You do not want to create animosity in most of your opponents. Let information flow in natural conversation.

Most people that come to casinos to play poker enjoy the human experience. They are ready to share information and companionship. You should not force the process as a police detective might. Encourage conversation; just subtly allow them to give of themselves what comes naturally.

Keep in mind that many people have a `poker persona'. It may be very different from their `real' self. You may have to try several different tacks to get them to open themselves up to you. They may sit quiet for hours, then a certain subject becomes the topic of discussion and, all of a sudden, they are completely outspoken!

the details about a person

a person relates

the human experience