adminIn No-Limit Texas Hold’em, 3-betting has become a cornerstone of modern poker strategy. A 3-bet occurs when a player re-raises after free poker an initial raise pre-flop, and it’s one of the most effective ways to apply pressure, build pots with strong hands, and define ranges. Understanding when and how to use 3-bets will make your game more aggressive, unpredictable, and profitable.
Why 3-Betting Matters
3-betting pre-flop allows you to take control of the hand early. When used correctly, it narrows your opponent’s range and forces them to play out of position with marginal holdings. Whether you’re value betting with premium hands or bluffing with suited connectors, 3-betting sets the tone and puts opponents on the defensive.
Value 3-Bets vs. Bluff 3-Bets
A strong 3-bet strategy balances between value and bluffing. Value 3-bets involve hands like A-A, K-K, Q-Q, and A-K—strong holdings you want to build the pot with. Bluff 3-bets, on the other hand, include hands that are too weak to call but too strong to fold, such as suited A-x, small pocket pairs, and suited connectors. These bluffs work best when used selectively and in position.
Ideal 3-Bet Spots
The best time to 3-bet is when you’re in position and facing a raise from a loose-aggressive player. These players tend to open wide ranges and are more likely to fold to a 3-bet unless they have a strong hand. Also consider 3-betting against players who fold too often to re-raises. Always avoid 3-betting calling stations unless you have a clear value hand—they’re less likely to fold pre-flop.
Sizing Your 3-Bet
Proper bet sizing is crucial for effective 3-betting. A standard 3-bet size is around 3x the original raise when you’re in position, and 4x when you’re out of position. This sizing puts pressure on your opponent while keeping your strategy balanced. Avoid making your 3-bet sizing too small, as it gives opponents favorable odds to call with speculative hands.
3-Betting in Position vs. Out of Position
Being in position gives you more flexibility in post-flop play, making your 3-bets more effective. In position, you can widen your 3-bet range slightly to include more bluffing hands. Out of position, you’ll need to tighten your range to avoid tough spots. Out-of-position 3-betting is often reserved for premium holdings or well-timed bluffs against predictable opponents.
Defending Against 3-Bets
Understanding 3-bet strategy also helps you defend against it. Don’t automatically fold to a 3-bet—consider the raiser’s tendencies, your position, and your hand strength. Sometimes flat calling or 4-betting as a bluff can be profitable. If opponents are 3-betting too often, widen your calling range and apply pressure post-flop.
Post-Flop Play After 3-Betting
Once you’ve 3-bet, you need to continue your aggression on the flop. Continuation betting is standard, especially when you’ve 3-bet with position. Even if you miss the flop, c-betting often forces folds from players who missed as well. However, if you get called, be prepared to slow down unless you improve.
Common 3-Betting Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes is 3-betting too frequently or with the wrong hands. Randomly re-raising with weak holdings can lead to bloated pots and tough decisions. Another mistake is using the same sizing for value and bluffs, making your strategy transparent. Maintain a balanced range and adjust your frequency based on opponent tendencies and game flow.
Practice and Adjust
A successful 3-bet strategy requires practice and ongoing adjustments. Pay attention to how players react to your re-raises. Are they folding too much? Are they calling light? Use this information to fine-tune your ranges and frequencies. Keep track of your 3-bet success rate and make data-driven improvements over time.
FAQ
How often should I 3-bet in Hold’em?
It depends on your position and table dynamics, but a balanced range often includes a mix of strong value hands and selective bluffs. Aim for around 7–10% of hands from late position.
Is 3-betting always better than calling?
Not always. 3-betting applies pressure but can also bloat pots unnecessarily. Use it when you have a reason—either for value or as a calculated bluff.
What should I do if someone 4-bets my 3-bet?
Evaluate their range and your hand strength. If you’re holding a premium hand, you can continue aggressively. If your 3-bet was a bluff, folding is often the best play unless you have strong reads.
