Mastering Three-Bet Pots in Poker

Introduction

• Three-bet pots are difficult and commonly misplayed.
• Understanding the dynamics can prevent costly mistakes.
• This lecture covers the fundamentals of three-bet pots using examples and strategies.

Differences in Three-Bet Pots

• Ranges: Stronger than single raise pots.

  • Three-bettor has decent hands; the caller folds weaker hands.
  • Caller lacks top hands like AA, KK, because they would four-bet.
  • Three-bettor often has a range advantage.

• Strategies Vary:

  • Based on stack depth.
  • Opponents often don’t use Game Theory Optimal (GTO) strategies.
  • Common mistakes include lack of three-bet bluffs and too tight calling ranges.

Pre-Flop Strategies by Stack Depth

60 Big Blinds Deep

• Button vs. Under-the-Gun (UTG):

  • Three-bet strong hands (AA, KK, QQ, AK) for value.
  • Use Ax suited, Kx suited, and other suited connectors for bluffs.

• Against Four-Bet All-In:

  • Call with top pairs and AK.
  • Fold weaker hands like AQ off-suit.

40 Big Blinds Deep

• Button vs. UTG:
  • Widen range slightly compared to 60 BB.
  • Call four-bet shove with AK and strong pairs.

20 Big Blinds Deep

• Button vs. UTG:
  • Mainly shove rather than small three-bet.
  • Use a condensed range with strong equity hands.

Adjustments Based on Position

Small Blind vs. Button Raise

• 60 Big Blinds Deep

  • Use a linear three-bet range.
  • Expect to get called frequently; ensure good post-flop playability.

• 40 Big Blinds Deep

  • Introduce all-ins with a condensed range.

• 20 Big Blinds Deep

  • Mostly shove due to favorable pot odds.

Button vs. Cut-Off Raise

• 60 Big Blinds Deep
  • Three-bet wider due to cut-off's broader range.
  • Include more pairs and suited connectors.

Post-Flop Play

Example: Button vs. Small Blind, 60 BB

• Flop: Ace-Queen-Seven

  • Small blind should bet small on favorable boards.
  • Button must call wide due to favorable odds.

• Turn Strategy

  • Small blind bets polarized; button responds based on equity.

• Importance of Polarized Betting

  • Key to navigating three-bet pots effectively.

Conclusion

• Mastery of three-bet pots involves understanding position, range, and stack depth dynamics.
• Utilize GTO strategies for better decision-making.
• Consistent study and practice are essential.

• Recommended Resource: 100 Essential Tips to Master No Limit Hold'em for further reading and mastery of scenarios.

Final Note

• Always consider the opponent’s tendencies and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Practice with poker coaching apps to reinforce learning.