What is a 3-Bet?
A 3-bet is the third bet in a sequence: the blinds are the first bet, an open raise is the second bet, and a re-raise is the third bet (hence "3-bet"). Understanding when and why to 3-bet is crucial for winning poker.
3-betting serves two main purposes: extracting value from strong hands and applying pressure with strategic bluffs. The key to effective 3-betting is balance - mixing value hands with bluffs to keep opponents guessing.
Value 3-Bets
Your value 3-betting range should consist of hands that are ahead of your opponent's calling range. The classic value hands include:
- Premium pairs: AA, KK, QQ, and usually JJ
- Big aces: AK (suited and offsuit), AQ suited
- Position-dependent: AQo, TT+ when in position
Against loose openers, you can expand your value range to include hands like AJs, KQs, and TT that dominate their wider opening range.
Bluff 3-Bets (Light 3-Bets)
Light 3-betting adds deception and balance to your game. The best bluff 3-bet candidates are:
- Suited aces: A5s-A2s (blockers to AA, can make nutted hands)
- Suited connectors: 76s, 87s, 98s (playability if called)
- Suited broadways: KJs, QJs, JTs (good equity when called)
The best bluff 3-bets contain a blocker to your opponent's continuing range. A5s is ideal because the ace blocks AA and AK, making it less likely your opponent has a premium hand.
3-Bet Sizing
Proper sizing is crucial for 3-bet effectiveness:
- In position: 2.5-3x the open raise
- Out of position: 3-4x the open raise
- Against a limper then raiser: Add the dead money
- With shortstacks involved: Consider going all-in
Positional Considerations
Your 3-betting frequency should adjust based on position:
| Position | Vs EP Open | Vs LP Open | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Button | 5-7% | 10-14% | Best position to 3-bet light |
| Cutoff | 4-6% | 8-12% | Can 3-bet wide vs button |
| Blinds | 3-5% | 8-12% | Compensate for positional disadvantage |
Responding to 4-Bets
When you 3-bet and face a 4-bet, you need a plan:
- Always continue with: AA, KK
- Usually continue: QQ, AKs against most opponents
- Fold your bluffs: Unless you have specific reads
- Adjust for stack depth: With 100bb, you can flat some 4-bets in position
Common 3-Betting Mistakes
- 3-betting too wide from early position
- Using the same size with value and bluffs
- Never 3-bet bluffing (too predictable)
- 3-betting hands that play better as calls (suited connectors sometimes)