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Mastering the 4bet: A Key Move in Advanced Poker Strategy

In the world of poker, particularly in No-Limit Texas Hold’em, there are countless strategies that separate recreational players from seasoned professionals. One such advanced tactic that often goes unnoticed by beginners but plays a pivotal role at higher levels is the 4bet. This move is not only a show of strength but also a powerful tool for controlling the dynamics of the table. Understanding when and how to use a 4bet can greatly improve a player’s chances of success in both cash games and tournaments.

What Is a 4bet?

To understand what a 4bet is, let’s first break down the sequence of raises in a hand of poker:

1. Open raise: The first voluntary raise pre-flop.
2. 3bet: A re-raise of the initial raise.
3. 4bet: A re-raise over the 3bet.

So essentially, a 4bet is the fourth bet in a sequence. For example, if a player raises pre-flop, another player re-raises (3bets), and then a third player re-raises again, that final raise is called a 4bet.

While 4betting can also happen post-flop, it is most commonly used pre-flop and is considered a sign of significant strength.

Why Is the 4bet Important?

The 4bet is a powerful move in poker for several reasons:

• Psychological pressure: A 4bet puts immense pressure on opponents, often forcing them to fold marginal hands.
• Defines ranges: Players who 4bet usually have a very strong or polarized range (either very strong hands or bluffs), which helps define their strategy and create fear in opponents.
• Controls the pot size: By 4betting, a player can control the size of the pot early on, which is crucial for managing stack sizes in tournaments or deep-stacked cash games.
• Gains initiative: Like with most aggressive actions in poker, the player who 4bets often becomes the one with the betting lead, giving them an edge in later streets.

Common Situations for 4betting

There are several scenarios in which a player might consider making a 4bet:

1. Value 4bet

A value 4bet is made with a very strong hand that you believe is ahead of your opponent’s 3betting range, such as AA, KK, or AK suited. The goal is to get more money into the pot while you are ahead and potentially induce a shove from weaker hands.

2. Bluff 4bet

This is a more advanced play and involves re-raising with a weaker or marginal hand to push the 3bettor off their hand. Bluff 4bets work best against aggressive opponents who frequently 3bet light. Typical bluff 4bet candidates include hands like A5 suited, KQo, or 76 suited—hands that have some equity but wouldn’t call a 3bet profitably.

3. 4bet Folding

Though it may seem counterintuitive, some players 4bet with the intention of folding if the opponent shoves. This is common in tournaments where stack sizes and ICM (Independent Chip Model) considerations come into play. The 4bet fold is often used as a bluff to exploit opponents who only shove with the top of their range.

Sizing the 4bet

Choosing the right size for your 4bet is crucial. It should be large enough to apply pressure, but not so large that it commits you unnecessarily. In general:

• In position, a 4bet size of about 2.2x–2.5x the 3bet is standard.
• Out of position, the size should be slightly larger—around 2.5x–3x the 3bet.

For example, if your opponent 3bets to 9 BB and you’re in position, a good 4bet might be around 20–22 BB. If you’re out of position, you might want to go to 24–27 BB.

Reading Opponents and Adjusting

One of the key aspects of successful 4betting is knowing your opponents. Some players never fold to 4bets, while others only 3bet with premium hands. Adjusting your strategy based on your opponent’s tendencies is crucial.

• Against tight players: You should mostly 4bet for value since they’re only 3betting strong hands.
• Against loose or aggressive players: Incorporating bluff 4bets into your strategy becomes more profitable since they are more likely to fold or 3bet light.

Poker tracking software or a HUD (Heads-Up Display) can provide valuable statistics like 3bet% and Fold to 4bet%, which can guide your decisions.

Risk vs. Reward

Like many high-risk plays in poker, the 4bet can backfire if not used correctly. Overusing it or doing so against the wrong players can result in frequent losses, especially if you get 5bet shoved and have to fold. That’s why a balanced 4bet strategy is essential.

A good balance is something like:

• Value hands: AA, KK, QQ, AK suited
• Bluff hands: A5s, K9s, suited connectors

By mixing these types of hands, your opponents won’t know whether your 4bet is a bluff or for value, keeping them guessing and giving you an edge.

4bet Strategy in Tournaments vs. Cash Games

The application of the 4bet differs slightly between tournaments and cash games:

• Tournaments: Because of stack sizes and ICM pressure, 4betting light is riskier. It’s more about survival and exploiting tight players.
• Cash games: With deeper stacks and more opportunities for maneuvering post-flop, bluff 4betting becomes a stronger part of the game.

In both formats, however, discipline is key. Knowing when to back off and when to push through is the mark of an experienced player.

Final Thoughts

The 4bet is one of the most underutilized but impactful moves in poker. When executed correctly, it allows players to take control of the table, build pots with strong hands, and exploit the tendencies of aggressive opponents. It’s a move that requires confidence, strategy, and an understanding of game dynamics. Whether you’re playing online or live, mastering the 4bet will not only improve your win rate but also elevate your overall poker game.

If you’re looking to step up your skills, practice identifying good 4bet spots and review your hand histories to understand what worked and what didn’t. With time and experience, the 4bet will become one of your most valuable tools at the table.

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