The c-bet (continuation bet) is betting on the flop when you were the preflop aggressor. It's one of the most frequent and profitable plays — but doing it on autopilot is a leak.
Why does the c-bet work?
You took the initiative preflop, so your range is stronger than the caller's. On most flops, a bet makes many of your opponent's hands fold (the ones that missed the flop) and collects value from the worse hands that call.
When to c-bet (and when to slow down)
- C-bet often on dry, high flops (A-7-2, K-8-3): they connect with your opening range, not your opponent's.
- Slow down more on low, connected flops (8-7-6, 9-8-5): they favor the range of the player who defended from the BB, not yours.
- Bet small (25–33%) when you c-bet with your entire range on flops you dominate.
EjemploYou open CO with A♥Q♦, the BB calls. Flop K♠7♣2♦: a dry flop that hits your range (KQ, AK, AA…). C-bet small with your whole range, including your A♥Q♦, which still has equity and fold equity. On 9♥8♥7♣, however, slow down: that flop favors the BB.
⚠️ Error común: C-betting 100% of flops out of habit. Against opponents who defend well, betting on flops that don't favor you just gives away chips. Learn to slow down (check) with part of your range.
💡 Clave: C-bet when the flop favors your range. Small sizing on dry flops, slow down on flops that help your opponent.