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The Continuation Bet

• 09.06.2025 8:38 am
• headhunter
• 0 Comments

A continuation bet is simple to explain – when the preflop raiser makes a bet on the flop still representing a strong hand. However, it could be a difficult skill to learn because there are only certain moments when it should be used.

The continuation bet is a good skill to acquire in No Limit Texas Hold 'Em. It's a good way to pick up some extra pot. However, an important thing to know about a continuation bet is don't get married to the hand.

When you raise preflop, it could with a number of hands. Maybe you raised with AK or pocket 8s. The flop comes down and doesn't hit in you in anyway. A continuation bet can work from a number of positions, but usually works well in late position because you will have a better idea for everyone else's hand strength. If no one else has hit the flop, they will most likely fold to you and the table can move on to the next hand.

However, there is always the possibility that someone at the table doesn't believe you or they hit a marginal hand. If someone just calls you, be wary of what they have. They might have called with a big hand looking to trap you or they might be on a draw. Or perhaps they have a marginal hand hoping you don't bet again, or perhaps they're "floating" you (calling with nothing at all with the intent to bluff at the pot on a later street. Make note of the flop texture and possible hands that your opponent can have. If you have been paying attention to this player (and you should have been), you should have a decent idea on the ballpark of hands they are holding.

If someone raises you, there are a few things to consider. First, are you being raised because this person actually has the best hand? If that is the case, let this hand go. Pick a better spot to make money and move on. However, this person may have read you as being weak and this is something to consider. You can reraise in this spot if you suspect weakness as well. If you did raise with AK or pocket 8s, there is a good shot you still have the best hand. This move takes a lot of courage, but also a lot of skill. Don't hold on to the hand just because you are the one that raised. Saving money in poker is also a way to make money.

Table image is an important part of a continuation bet. If you are someone who normally bets out when they have the nuts, the more likely it is someone is going to fold to you. However, if you tend to bluff a lot, there is a good possibility someone is going to call you or raise.

Continuation bets work well against fewer opponents because there is less of a chance of them holding anything substantial. Don't' try to bluff at a pot with eight people in it. Be ready to muck the hand and move on.