What Does C-Bet (Continuation Bet) Mean in Poker?
A continuation bet (C-Bet) is a bet made by the player who took the lead in the betting round on the previous street, typically the pre-flop raiser, to maintain the initiative in the hand. It is commonly used as a bluff or semi-bluff to apply pressure on opponents. For more strategies on online poker, visit our resourceful guides.
When You Might Hear Or Use The Term C-Bet
In poker conversations or during gameplay, you might hear about a C-Bet when discussing tactics for maintaining aggression after raising pre-flop, especially when the board texture is favorable for the pre-flop aggressor.
In-Game Example
Imagine you raise pre-flop with AK and the flop comes 942. You are first to act and decide to place a C-Bet to represent a strong hand and apply pressure on any opponents holding weaker hands.
Strategy / Tips
- Best Practice: Use C-Bets on boards that are dry and unlikely to have helped your opponents, allowing you to leverage your perceived range advantage.
- Common Mistake: Overusing C-Bets on wet boards where opponents are likely to have connected or when multiple players are involved.
- Pro Tips: Mix up your C-Betting strategy by sometimes checking strong hands to trap opponents and keep them guessing about your hand strength.
- Differences playing over the table vs online: In live games, observe opponents’ reactions for additional tells when deciding to C-Bet, while online, rely more on statistical data and betting patterns.
Alternative Names
While “C-Bet” or “Continuation Bet” are the standard terms, it might casually be referred to simply as “betting the flop.”
FAQs
Q: Is a C-Bet always a bluff?
A: No, a C-Bet can be made with a strong hand, a draw, or even air. The key is maintaining the initiative and applying pressure.
Related Terms
- Bluff
- Semi-Bluff
- Range
- Pre-Flop
