Heads-Up Reading Your Opponent: Tells and Behavioral Patterns in Heads-up Play David Parker URL has been copied successfully! By staying focused and adjusting based on what you see, you turn small behavioral clues into real edgesHeads-up poker strips the game down to its core. With only two players involved, every move carries more weight, and small details become easier to spot. Reading your opponent is no longer a bonus skill, but a central part of winning consistently. Physical tells still matter in live heads-up play, even among experienced players. Changes in breathing, posture, or hand movement often appear when the pressure rises. A player who suddenly stiffens or avoids eye contact may be dealing with uncertainty, while someone who becomes overly still might be trying to look strong.Betting behavior is often more reliable than body language. Pay close attention to bet sizing patterns across multiple hands. Quick, confident bets can signal comfort with a holding, while delayed actions or oddly sized wagers may point to hesitation or a marginal hand.Timing tells play a major role online and live. An instant check or call can suggest a pre-planned decision, often tied to a weaker range. Longer pauses before aggressive actions sometimes indicate a bluff being carefully considered rather than a natural value bet.Emotional shifts are another key clue. Frustration after losing a big pot can push players into riskier decisions. Others may tighten up after a mistake, becoming easier to push off hands with steady pressure and well-timed bets.It’s also important to watch how opponents react to your actions. Do they fold more often to raises on certain streets? Do they defend less after you show down a strong hand? These reactions help build a clearer picture of how they view you.