One of the most easiest ways to read hands is to find out what your opponent’s actions mean. For example, you see that every time he checks at the flop he has a mediocre hand. But don’t forget that he can change his style.
And it’s not the only one thing that can hinder you from figuring out his hand. The other thing is that you shouldn’t put up your opponent on one specific hand, but on a variety of hands. And then… proceeding from what follows after the community cards are dealt – just eliminate inappropriate hands. When eliminating you should think: “What is he drawing to?” If you’re sitting with:
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The flop is:
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Your opponent raises, you’re heads-up. He might be on a flush draw or he might have an overpair. And moreover it’s very likely that he has a better flush draw than you. So you can be drawing dead. Even if another diamond comes on the board – you’re beaten.
Other example:
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In case someone has raised preflop from early position you can suppose that he has a pocket pair like AA, QQ or (that is less likely) 33. If he raised only after the flop then he’s not likely to have a pocket pair. He seems to have a high card or two high cards: be ready to see AQ at the showdown.
In general you should combine these two things: mathematical skills and psychological. Plus – observation. How it works? For example you’re dealt:
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The flop is:
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Let’s suppose that you were attentive enough to notice that when this player raises it means he has some mediocre hand. Maybe: JK. Moreover you know that he’s gonna raise with it. You can call, but if he reraises then it’s better to fold, because it is very unlikely that he doesn’t have an overpair. So keep in mind: mathematics, psychology, observation.
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