When we have a hand that is too bad to call, such as A2s or 33.When we have a hand that is too good to call, such as KK or AA for value.Hopefully, you’ve already noticed this from the section above, but we 3-bet for two specific reasons: In this example, we are 3-betting TT+, AJs+, AQ+ for value and 44-22, A4s-A2s, 87s, 76s as a bluff. The below image shows a polarized 3-betting range composed of value hands and bluff hands. So, unlike the linear 3-betting range, when we 3-bet a polarized range, we are sometimes betting for value and other times bluffing. For example, the image below shows a linear value 3-betting range of JJ+, AQs+, AKo.Ī polarized 3-betting range is one composed of a combination of value hands and bluffs. When we 3-bet a linear range, we are 3-betting for value.

In poker, there are two main categories of 3-bets, linear and polarized 3-bets:Ī linear 3-betting range is one composed solely of value-bets. Why is this? Well, in Texas Holdem, the posted blinds are considered the first bet, the initial open raise is considered the second bet, and the re-raise is, therefore, the third bet, hence the term 3-bet. This might be a bit confusing to some people because the 3-bet is the second raise. A 3-bet occurs when someone open-raises and another person re-raises pre-flop. What Is The Pre-Flop 3-Bet?įirst off, let’s level set what a pre-flop 3-bet is. The purpose of this article is to provide a basic framework that beginning and struggling poker players can use to effectively 3-bet. With so much theory being discussed in books, forums, and training videos it’s easy for beginners to get lost in a fog of poker haze, not knowing when to 3-bet, what range of hands to 3-bet, and why.

For beginners, 3-betting can be a confusing concept to understand and properly apply at the poker tables.

When to 3 bet poker