3-Bet Pot Strategy: As Attacker and Defender

3-bet pots are where significant money is won and lost. Understanding both sides of the equation is crucial.

As the 3-Bettor (Attacker)

When you 3-bet, you have the range advantage. Your range is stronger and more defined than the opener's.

**Use a polarized range**: Strong value hands (AA-TT, AK) + bluffs (A2s-A5s, suited connectors)

**Sizing**: 3x the open in position, 3.5-4x out of position

**Postflop**: C-bet frequently on favorable textures. Your range advantage gives you more bluffing equity.

When facing a 3-bet, you need a strong, well-defined calling range.

**In position**: Call wider — JJ-88, AQ, AJs, KQs, suited connectors

**Out of position**: Call tighter — focus on hands that play well postflop

**4-bet or fold**: Some hands should be 4-bet (for value or as a bluff) or folded, not flat-called

**Spr (Stack-to-Pot Ratio)**: Lower SPR in 3-bet pots means decisions are simpler and more commitment-oriented

**Continuation frequency**: The 3-bettor should c-bet at a high frequency due to range advantage

**Defending wide**: The caller must defend enough to prevent the 3-bettor from auto-profiting with any two cards