Three-Bet

Detailed Explanation

A three-bet (3-bet) is the third aggressive action in a betting sequence: blind (first bet) → raise (second bet) → re-raise (third bet). In modern poker parlance, 'three-betting' almost universally refers to re-raising a pre-flop open raise, though it applies to any street.

Three-betting for value is done with premium hands (AA, KK, QQ, AK) to build the pot against weaker holdings. Three-betting as a bluff (often called a 'light three-bet') uses hands that have some equity but benefit from fold equity — suited connectors and suited aces are common light three-bet hands because they play well when called and have deceptive value.

Three-bet frequencies and sizing vary by position and game dynamic. From the big blind, out-of-position three-bets are typically larger (3.5–4x the open) to charge for the positional disadvantage. Button three-bets in position can be smaller. Solver outputs suggest optimal three-bet ranges balance bluffs and value hands — a three-bet range consisting only of AA/KK/QQ is easily exploited by folding all but premium hands to it. The continuation to four-bet, five-bet, and so on follows the same logic at higher stakes.