Want to move beyond the basics of poker? Time to get friendly with the 3-bet strategy! It’ll help you push your opponents around, build the pot when you’ve got the goods, and make others wonder what you’re up to. Read on for more!
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What’s a 3-Bet Anyway?
Definition
3-betting is a fancy name for the third bet in the game’s betting sequence. Here’s the basic flow:
- Someone opens the action with a bet.
- Another player raises (that’s the second bet).
- Then, you throw in a re-raise — the third bet.
Why Bother with It?
Here’s what a well-placed 3-bet can do for you:
- Put Pressure on Others
It says, “I’m not backing down.” It’s like planting a flag on the table. Loose players have to think twice, even if they’ve been bossing the action until now.
- Build a Bigger Pot
Got a monster hand? Great! A 3-bet grows the pot early so you get more out of your winning hand.
- Take Control of the Hand
The one making moves is usually the one dictating how the hand goes. A 3-bet keeps you in control and can often win you the pot without even seeing the flop.
When Should You 3-Bet?
Against Loose Players
First, loose players — those who play lots of hands). They’ll often call you just to keep things going. A 3-bet forces them to pay more to see the flop. It pushes them out when they’re holding trash.
When You Have a Strong Hand
Think pocket aces, kings, or queens. If you’re sitting on a top hand, a 3-bet builds the pot right away. Don’t let these strong hands go to waste with just a call or a small raise.
By the time the flop hits, you’ll be in a stronger spot to double up if you keep the action moving early.
As a Strategic Bluff
Don’t be afraid to apply this strategy as a bluff against a tight player who folds more often. A tight player sees a 3-bet and usually thinks you’ve got a monster.
If you spot someone folding often, throw in a 3-bet with a decent hand. Maybe something like KQ or J10 suited. They’ll back down more often than not, and you take the pot.
Finding the Right Bet Size
Here’s a simple rule: go for around 3x the initial raise amount. If someone opens with $10, a solid 3-bet would be around $30.
And don’t ignore position. The closer you are to the dealer button, the more you can get away with a smaller 3-bet. Especially when bluffing. Are you in an early position (closer to the big blind)? You may want to go a bit bigger to keep others out of the pot and avoid being out of position post-flop.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
Now, a few classic mistakes to dodge if you want this approach to work:
- Overdoing It
If you do it too much, you’ll start bleeding chips fast. When people catch on, they’ll call or raise you more often. Keep it in moderation—only 3-bet when it makes sense.
- Ignoring Position
Where you’re seated matters a lot. Being closer to the dealer button makes it easier to control the action. It’s much harder to use this strategy effectively if you’re out of position. Save the move for when you have a positional advantage.
- Misreading the Room
Watch the game. Don’t just focus on your cards. Study the players, pick up on any patterns, and time your 3-bets for when they’re likely to fold or call.
Example Hands: 3-Betting in Real Action
Okay, let’s take a look at some hands to see the 3-bet in action.
- Example 1
You’re on the button with pocket aces, and a loose player raises from an early position. You throw in a 3-bet to about 3x their raise. They call, and by the time the flop hits, they’re likely outmatched and might fold to your continued aggression. If they stay, you still have a good shot with your strong hand.
- Example 2
You’ve got J10 suited, and you’re up against a tight player who raised pre-flop. Here, the strategy can act as a bluff, signaling you’ve got something stronger. If they fold, you’ve taken the pot without seeing the flop. If they call, you’ve still got a hand with potential, especially if the flop’s kind.
- Example 3
Middle position with KQ offsuit, and the player to your right (who’s a bit loose) makes a standard raise. You 3-bet to push them out or take control. They call, but at this point, they’re on the back foot, and you’re likely in control as the hand plays out.
Master Your Game—Without Overdoing It
3-betting can do wonders if you use it right. But remember: don’t go overboard. A smart, well-timed move is more effective than constantly hammering with it.
Get comfortable with the move. Practice spotting the right times to pull it off. Then, watch as your game starts leveling up!