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Step 1
To tell if someone is bluffing at poker just learn how they play the game. It might take a few hands to determine their style. Do they have confidence, are they a strong player, what are their weaknesses? Answer these questions quickly and get to know your opponents. Although we would all like to be dealt pocket pairs or Aces every hand the odds are not in your favor. So sometimes in order to win pots while playing regular no limit, limit, or poker tournaments we must bluff.
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Step 2
Bluffs are most common spotted when players over bet or bet too fast. Does the player look extremely nervous or are they just excited that they have the best hand? Did they bet before the flop, are they constantly checking and then re-raising after you bet? All of these habits will eventually be learned and the only way you as a player can avoid being caught in a bluff is to make players always think that your bluffing even when you have the best hand.
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Step 3
Look at the cards you have and the cards on the table. What are the odds that they have a better hand, or that your hand is the better one? Try to understand why someone is betting when there aren't any good cards on the flop to make a hand. Is there a straight possibility or maybe a flush. Are the betting on the come or are they already satisfied that they have a better hand then you. Is the player on tilt from losing a previous hand and is just trying to intimidate you? Often these are easy ways to spot bluffs but don't get too upset because all players get lucky and when the cards are flipped over no bluff will matter, that's why its important to keep your opponent's guessing and stay consistent with your betting. I typically don't over bet when I have the best hand, I want to be paid for having the better hand and over betting pushes other players to fold and unless you have a weak hand and your bluffing its not a smart thing to do.
