Continuation Bet in Poker: Complete Guide to Mastering the Strategy

Continuation bet, or simply c-bet, is one of the most recognizable and frequently used tactics in modern poker. Despite its apparent simplicity, applying this move correctly requires a deep understanding of game dynamics, opponent ranges, and the specifics of each situation. This article explores in detail what a continuation bet is, why it works, when to use it, and when it’s better to avoid it.

What a Continuation Bet Really Is

A continuation bet is a wager made on the flop by the player who was the preflop aggressor. In other words, if you raised before the flop and then bet again once the community cards are revealed, you are making a classic c-bet.

The main idea is to maintain aggression and keep control of the pot even if the flop doesn’t improve your hand. Very often, opponents are forced to fold because they have not connected with the board, and your bet looks credible.

Why This Strategy Is So Popular

The popularity of the continuation bet stems from several reasons. First, opponents cannot see your cards, so if you showed aggression preflop, they assume you might have a strong hand. Even when holding nothing, your flop bet may still work because many players fold weaker holdings.

Additionally, a continuation bet helps to:

• control the size of the pot and dictate the tempo of the hand
• put pressure on opponents, especially when their range is weak
• disguise hand strength, since you bet with both bluffs and strong holdings
• build an aggressive image, which makes you more difficult to play against

When a Continuation Bet Works Best

Certain scenarios make a c-bet particularly effective.

. Heads-up pots are ideal. With only one opponent, the chance that they missed the board is high, making them more likely to fold.
. Dry boards with few draws (e.g., A♠-7♦-2♣) are favorable since opponents rarely connect with such flops.
. Having position enhances the effectiveness of a continuation bet, giving you better control and more information.

When to Avoid the C-bet

While powerful, the continuation bet should not be used blindly. There are situations where betting is more harmful than helpful.

. Against multiple opponents, the probability that someone connected with the flop rises sharply.
. On wet boards such as 9♥-T♥-J♠, there are too many potential draws, making a bluff less effective.
. Versus a calling station, bluffing with a c-bet is a losing strategy since these players call too often.
. With the nuts, betting right away might scare opponents. In these cases, checking can extract more value later.

Bet Sizing and Adjustments

The size of a continuation bet is critical. A typical size ranges between one-third and half of the pot, striking a balance between risk and pressure.

. On dry boards, a smaller bet is enough to push opponents off weak hands.
. On draw-heavy boards, larger bets deny opponents the chance to chase cheaply.

Psychological Impact and Table Image

Continuation betting is not just about math — it’s also a psychological weapon. Frequent c-bets build an aggressive image, often forcing opponents to give up without resistance.

However, overusing this strategy has risks. Observant players will notice excessive c-betting and begin exploiting it. Maintaining balance by betting both strong hands and bluffs is essential.

The Double Barrel

Many players extend aggression to the turn, placing a second bet known as a double barrel. This move can be extremely profitable when the opponent shows weakness after the flop.

. The double barrel works best against opponents who fold under sustained aggression.
. It should be used carefully if the turn card strengthens the opponent’s range.

Common Mistakes with C-bets

Mistakes often occur when players misuse continuation bets.

. Making automatic bets every time, without considering board texture or opponents.
. Choosing the wrong sizing, either risking too much with air or betting too little to create pressure.
. Bluffing against the wrong types of players, such as calling stations or skilled regulars.
. Failing to plan ahead — not knowing what to do if the flop bet gets called.

Practical Tips to Improve Your Continuation Betting

To maximize the effectiveness of your c-bets, keep the following principles in mind:

. Always analyze board texture before betting.
. Consider the number of opponents; the fewer players, the better.
. Adapt to player tendencies — bluff more against tight players, less against loose ones.
. Watch your table image to avoid predictability.
. Mix up bet sizes to remain unreadable.