A continuation bet — or "c-bet" — is a bet made on the flop by the player who raised before the flop. It’s one of the most common and profitable plays in Texas Hold’em, because the pre-flop raiser keeps the lead and the pressure. Here’s how to use it well. New to postflop play? Review the rules first.

Why c-bets work

When you raise before the flop, you represent a strong hand. Most of the time your opponent misses the flop (two unpaired cards miss about two-thirds of the time). A continuation bet lets you win the pot immediately — whether or not you actually hit.

When to c-bet

In position — acting last makes your c-bet stronger. See why position is power.
Against one or two opponents — fewer players means a higher chance everyone folds.
On dry boards — boards like K-7-2 rainbow rarely help your opponent, so your c-bet gets respect.
When you have a strong hand or a good draw — betting for value or as a semi-bluff.

When to check instead

Wet, connected boards (like 9-8-7 of two suits) that likely hit your opponent.
Multiway pots with several players — someone usually connected.
Against calling stations who won’t fold — save your chips and bet only for value.

Bet sizing

A c-bet of around one-half to two-thirds of the pot is a solid default. It’s big enough to pressure draws and small enough to keep your risk reasonable. Betting too small invites cheap calls; betting huge risks too much on a bluff.

Don’t auto-pilot

Years ago, players c-bet almost every flop. Today, opponents fight back. Mix it up: c-bet your good hands and good boards, and check your weak hands on boards that smashed your opponent. Predictable players get exploited.

A simple plan

Raise with strong starting hands, then c-bet about half-pot on dry boards in position. That single pattern wins a lot of small pots and builds a foundation you can refine later.

Try it for free

Practice c-betting at Poker House — free real-time Texas Hold’em, Wild-West style, no real-money gambling. Deal in for free and fire your first continuation bet.