What Is a Continuation Bet (C-Bet)?

A continuation bet — usually shortened to "c-bet" — is a bet made on the flop by the player who raised before the flop. You "continue" the aggression you showed preflop. It is one of the most common plays in No-Limit Hold'em.

Why c-bets work

As the preflop raiser, you often hold the stronger range on many flops — you have more big cards and overpairs than the player who only called. That range advantage means you can bet a wide set of hands credibly, and your opponent has to fold a lot of the time because much of their range missed.

A c-bet also keeps the initiative: you stay the aggressor, and the player reacting is always a step behind.

When to c-bet (and when not to)

C-betting works best when:

• The board favors your range (high, dry boards usually favor the preflop raiser).
• You're in position.
• Your opponent folds a reasonable amount.

Slow down when the board favors the caller (low, connected boards that hit their calling range harder), when you're out of position against a sticky opponent, or when your specific hand prefers to check and protect your checking range.

Sizing

Smaller c-bets work well on dry boards where you can bet a wide range cheaply; larger c-bets fit polarized situations on wetter boards. The size you pick shapes which of your opponent's hands continue.

Common mistakes

• C-betting every flop automatically, regardless of texture.
• Always using one size, which makes you readable.