Continuation betting is a cornerstone of modern poker strategy. Yet, many players apply a one-size-fits-all approach to continuation bet sizing, missing critical opportunities to extract value or force folds. In this article, we’ll break down how to tailor your c-bet sizing across various board textures, giving you an edge in both value and bluff scenarios.
What Is a Continuation Bet?
A continuation bet (or c-bet) occurs when the pre-flop aggressor follows up with another bet on the flop. It's an essential part of your continuation betting strategy, designed to capitalize on your range advantage and pressure your opponent's weaker holdings.
But when to c-bet in poker and how much to bet depends heavily on the flop texture. Let's look at how to optimize your bet sizing across different types of flops.
Dry, Ace-High Boards (e.g., A 7 2)
Why They Matter:
These flops generally favor the pre-flop raiser, especially if they opened from early or middle position. They offer a significant range advantage and fewer straight draws or flush draws for the defender.
Bet Sizing Strategy:
On these boards, betting smaller—around 25–33% of the pot—is optimal at a high frequency. You’re not trying to get value from worse hands; you're leveraging fold equity against a weak betting range.
Example:
You open from the cutoff, big blind calls. The flop is A 7 2. A small c-bet here pressures hands like K-J or 8-9 to fold immediately.
Wet, Connected Boards (e.g., 9 8 6)
Why They Matter:
These flops hit the big blind’s defending range hard. They contain straight draws, flush draws, and many medium strength hands like top pair or pair + draw.
Bet Sizing Strategy:
Use a larger sizing—between 66–100% pot—when you choose to bet. You’ll be betting less frequently, but when you do, it should be with strong hands or robust draws.
Example:
On a board like 9 8 6, you might bet big with overpairs, two-pairs, or combo draws. This forces pressure on the opponent’s entire range and sets up future barrels.
Paired Boards (e.g., Q Q 4)
Why They Matter:
Paired flops tend to reduce the number of strong hands both players can have. This can lead to polarized ranges and more cautious play.
Bet Sizing Strategy:
Opt for small to medium sizing (~33–50%) with your value range and some bluffs. Since these boards are dry and disconnected, a high frequency small bet keeps the pressure on.
Example:
On Q Q 4, hands like A-J or K-T can be included in your bluffing range, while hands like A-Q or pocket kings benefit from betting smaller to extract value.
Low, Uncoordinated Flops (e.g., 5 3 2)
Why They Matter:
These boards can be deceptive. While they look dry, they contain straight draws and often hit the big blind’s defending range better than you’d expect.
Bet Sizing Strategy:
Be cautious. If you have a nut advantage (like an overpair or top set), betting big can be effective. Otherwise, lean toward checking or betting smaller at a lower frequency.
Example:
You raised pre-flop with A K and the flop is 5 3 2. Consider checking back, unless you're ready to bet big as a bluff with blockers to straights.
High Card, Wet Boards (e.g., K J T)
Why They Matter:
This is a classic flop where both players can connect well. The presence of flush draws, straight draws, and top pairs on both sides creates complexity.
Bet Sizing Strategy:
Use a large bet size (~66–75%) with your value hands and strong bluffs. This dissuades draws from calling lightly and sets up future streets for big pots.
Example:
Hands like A-Q or sets can bet big, while bluffs like A 9 (with backdoor flush and straight equity) also function well with this large sizing.
Key Takeaways: Continuation Bet Sizing by Board Texture
Flop Texture
Bet Size
Frequency
Reasoning
Dry Ace-High
25–33% pot
High
Strong range advantage, few draws
Wet/Connected
66–100% pot
Low
Opponent range hits, need fold equity
Paired
33–50% pot
Medium to High
Limited nutted hands, effective small bets
Low/Uncoordinated
25–66% pot
Low to Medium
Deceptive board, often hits big blind
High Card, Draw-Heavy
66–75% pot
Medium
Strong top pairs and draws need protection
Final Thoughts
A one-size-fits-all c-bet strategy is no longer viable in today’s game. By adjusting your continuation bet sizing based on board texture, range advantage, and your hand’s strength, you’ll find more success in both bluffing and value extraction. Whether you’re betting small on dry flops or going for a larger sizing on dynamic boards, understanding the why behind your bets will elevate your entire poker strategy continuation bet game.
Tip: Always consider how the flop interacts with both your range and your opponent’s. That understanding is the foundation for proper c-bet execution.
