Three bet

In Depth Look

The term refers to the third bet in a sequence: the first is the big blind, the second is the initial raise, and the third is the re-raise—hence, “three-bet.” This action usually signals a strong hand, such as high pocket pairs or premium broadway combinations like Ace-King. But not all three-bets are made with strong hands. Some players use them as bluffs to apply pressure or isolate a specific opponent. Because of this, understanding the context of a three-bet is just as important as knowing the cards behind it.

Three-betting can change the dynamic of a hand. It forces other players to react, often narrowing the field and giving the three-bettor more control. For example, in a full-ring game, if a player in middle position raises and a player on the button three-bets, the original raiser must now decide whether their hand is strong enough to continue. At the same time, the blinds may fold, giving the three-bettor position and initiative. This move also increases the size of the pot, making later streets more valuable—and more dangerous. When used well, three-bets can protect your range, disguise your strong hands, and win pots outright.

However, poor use of the three-bet can lead to trouble. If you three-bet too often without a plan, good players will adjust and punish you. If you only three-bet with strong hands, observant opponents will fold to your raises and you’ll miss value. The key is balance: mixing strong value hands with well-chosen bluffs, and adjusting based on position, stack sizes, and the tendencies of your opponents. Mastering this balance takes experience and discipline, but it’s one of the most effective tools in a serious poker player’s strategy.