What Does C-Bet Mean in Poker? Understanding the Concept and Its Importance
In poker, “C-bet” stands for “continuation bet.” It’s a common tactic where a player who raised pre-flop makes another bet on the flop, continuing the aggression they started. Whether you’ve hit the flop or not, the C-bet allows you to maintain control of the hand and put pressure on your opponents.
Why Use a C-Bet?
- Maintain Initiative: As the pre-flop aggressor, betting on the flop signals strength, forcing your opponents to respond.
- Win Uncontested Pots: Many players will fold to a well-timed C-bet if they’ve missed the flop entirely.
- Gather Information: A call or raise in response to your C-bet can help you gauge the strength of your opponent’s hand.
When to C-Bet
Effective C-betting depends on the texture of the board:
- Dry Boards: Flops like 7♦-2♣-J♥ are ideal for bluff C-bets because they offer few draws or strong combinations for your opponents.
- Wet Boards: Flops like Q♥-J♥-9♠ are more dangerous for C-bets as they connect with a wider range of hands, making your bluff less effective.
Examples of C-Bets
- Bluffing: You raised pre-flop with A♠-K♠, and the flop comes Q♦-6♣-2♠. A C-bet here may force your opponent to fold if they missed the flop.
- Value Betting: You raised pre-flop with 9♦-9♠, and the flop is 9♣-5♥-2♠. A C-bet builds the pot when you’re confident you have the best hand.
Adjusting Your Strategy
Successful C-betting depends on your opponents:
- Against Tight Players: C-bet more often to take advantage of their tendency to fold when they miss the flop.
- Against Loose Players: Be more selective with C-bets, focusing on situations where you have a strong hand or a clear plan for later streets.
Conclusion
The C-bet is a fundamental poker strategy that allows you to keep control of the hand and pressure your opponents. Whether you’re bluffing on a dry board or building a pot with a strong hand, understanding when and how to use a C-bet can significantly improve your game. Like any tool in poker, it’s most effective when used thoughtfully and in the right situations.
