The Continuation Bet: Keeping the Initiative
The c-bet is the most common bet in poker — and most players fire it far too often, on the wrong boards, for the wrong size.
What is a continuation bet?
A continuation bet (c-bet) is a bet on the flop by the player who raised pre-flop, "continuing" their aggression. It works because the pre-flop raiser's range is stronger, and the flop misses both players most of the time — so betting often wins the pot uncontested.
When to c-bet (and when not to)
Don't auto-c-bet every flop. Decide based on board texture, opponents, and your range:
- C-bet more on dry, high boards that favor your pre-flop range (K♠7♦2♣) — your opponent rarely connects and you represent strength credibly.
- C-bet less on wet, coordinated boards that hit the caller (9♥8♥7♣) — these connect with calling ranges and you'll get raised and floated.
- Check back some made hands and give up some air on bad boards, so you're not predictable.
Texture and sizing
Use a smaller c-bet (~25–40% pot) on dry boards where you bet a wide range, and a larger c-bet (~60–75% pot) on wet boards where you want to charge draws and bet a stronger, more polar range. Multiway pots demand more caution — one of several opponents usually connects, so c-bet far less and mostly for value.