A 4-bet in poker is the fourth raise, re-raise or overall bet in a given sequence. It is usually used as a value play to improve the odds of holding strong hands and can also be a bluff against an aggressive 3-bet. In this article, we will discuss when it is appropriate to use a 4bet, how to construct an optimal 4bet range and the benefits of bluffing with weaker hands.

When to use a 4bet

Preflop and postflop 4-betting is very common in the game of No Limit Hold’em. Players will often make a preflop 4bet when another player has raised or re-raised their original raise (3-bet) and they have a good reason to believe that the opponent is all-in with a strong hand. Preflop 4-bets are typically geared more toward value than bluffing but some players will still choose to bluff with strong hands in certain situations.

When it comes to the postflop, you will want to consider relative stack sizes when constructing your 4-bet range. If you are 200bb or 300bb deep and your opponent is short stacked, you can deny them a lot of equity by using a larger 4-bet size. This will prevent them from being able to value shove on you and give them less options in terms of how to play the hand.

The most important thing about a 4bet is its structure. It is essential that you have a solid understanding of how to balance your value and bluffing ranges. A balanced 4bet will allow you to profit off your opponents’ mistakes. However, if an opponent is especially tight and has exploitable leaks, you may need to deviate from GTO strategy to take advantage of them.

Having the right mix of value and bluffs in your 4-bet range will help you maximize your chances of winning the pot. A balanced range will consist of a small number of bluffs and strong hands such as AK and QQ. In addition, it is important to balance your bet sizes. Choosing a bet size that is too large will make it difficult to win the pot and could lead to your opponent calling with weak hands such as JT.

It’s also important to have an idea of how to use a cold 4bet. This type of bet is most effective when you’re playing against players who like to raise and re-raise frequently in early position. In this case, you should target their re-raise range with your cold 4bet and include a range of suited and unsuited aces. In late position, you can be more loose with your cold 4bet and target a range of weaker hands such as JT and AK. Ideally, you’ll want to target these hands because they’re unlikely to call your 4-bet with any other strong hands. This way, you’ll have the best chance of stealing their blinds and getting the pot.