Interesting pictorial guide that helps you tell if people are lying to you.

“In business, politics and romance, it would be nice to know when we’re being lied to. Unfortunately humans aren’t very good at detecting lies. Our natural tendency is to trust others, and for day-to-day, low-stakes interactions, that makes sense. We save time and energy by taking statements like “I saw that movie� or “I like your haircut� at face value�.

Ten Ways:

  • Watch Body Language - especially sweating and fidgeting
  • Seek Detail - Push your subject for particulars
  • Beware Unpleasantness - Liars are noticeably less cooperative than truth-tellers
  • Observe Eye Contact - A subject’s failure to make eye contact can often be a sign of deceit
  • Signs of Stress  - Look for dilated pupils and a rise in vocal pitch
  • Listen for the Pause - Forced to make up a story on the spot, most speakers will take a beat or two to collect their thoughts.
  • Ask Again - Police interrogators often ask suspects to repeat their stories, and listen for inconsistencies. Smart people are usually more consistent than dumb people.
  • Beware Those Who Protest Too Much
  • Know Thyself - One reason liars succeed is that listeners don’t really want to know the truth, says psychologist Feldman. So be honest with yourself about what it is you want to hear.
  • Work on Your Intuition