Continuation betting (c-betting) after raising preflop is fundamental to winning poker. Optimal c-bet strategy considers board texture, opponent tendencies, and range advantages.
Why Continuation Bet? As the preflop aggressor, you represent strength and often have a range advantage. C-betting maintains initiative and applies pressure to opponents' weak holdings. Against single opponents, c-betting wins immediately when they miss.
Optimal C-Bet Frequency: Game theory suggests c-betting 50-70% of flops depending on board texture and position. Over-c-betting makes you exploitable by check-raises and calls. Under-c-betting allows opponents to realize equity too cheaply.
Board Texture Considerations: C-bet more frequently on dry boards (A-7-2 rainbow) that miss most ranges. Check more often on coordinated boards (9-8-7 two-tone) where opponents connected frequently. Static boards favor c-betting; dynamic boards favor checking.
Range Advantage: When your range is stronger than opponent's range, c-bet aggressively. High cards favor preflop raisers. Low, coordinated boards favor callers. Adjust c-bet frequency based on who benefits from the flop.
C-Bet Sizing: Standard c-bets are 50-75% of pot. Small c-bets (33%) work on favorable boards where opponents have weak ranges. Large c-bets (100%+) protect strong hands on dangerous boards. Vary sizing based on goals.
Position Matters: In position, c-bet more liberally because you control pot size and gather information when checked to. Out of position, check more often to reach showdown cheaper with marginal hands.
Opponent Adjustments: Against calling stations, check more and value bet thinner on later streets. Against tight folders, c-bet aggressively and give up when called. Against aggressive players, check strong hands to induce bluffs.
Multi-Way Pots: C-bet less frequently with multiple opponents since someone likely connected. Focus on value betting strong hands rather than bluffing with air.
Delayed C-Bets: Sometimes check the flop and bet the turn (delayed c-bet). This line works well when turn cards favor your range or when opponents float flops but fold turns.
Double and Triple Barreling: Plan multi-street strategies before c-betting. Don't fire flop and turn automatically—ensure your story makes sense and you have adequate fold equity.
Balancing Your Range: Against strong opponents, sometimes check strong hands and c-bet weak hands for balance. Against weak opponents, skip balancing and maximize exploitation.
Common Mistakes: C-betting without considering board texture, using consistent sizing across all situations, and barreling without a plan. Don't c-bet automatically—think about each situation.
Responsible Gaming: Aggressive c-betting creates action, but don't let excitement override strategy. If you're betting for action rather than profit, take a break and refocus on fundamentals.