The Technique of Value-Bet

A value-bet is a bet based on a mathematical formula which consists in betting on a match the probability of which to pass is superior to the rating proposed by the bookmaker. In poker, it is the stake which, on average, is profitable if your opponent follows. It is different with bluff because a bluff will work only if your opponent folds. The concept of value-bet is above all the capacity to feel well the value of an opposite hand and the size of stake which will be paid. In other words, Value-bet consists in knowing how much it is necessary to bet when we have the best hand in order to maximize gains and thus to not make the opponent run away. If Value-Bet is played in heads-up, it is necessary to know well your opponent’s psychology, before determining how and especially how much to bet. For a game played in heads-up, a value- bet works when we have the highest hand and the opponent have also an important hand, then he paid. The technique consists in raising without awakening suspicions whereas we play in second position.

If we have a small combination (high card or even card), a small insignificant raise but with bluff, or a low hand but which can win, to check will be the best solution. If we have a strong game (high hand), an average raising to give him the opportunity to call is enough. And if the game is very strong, a significant raising, but not too much to let him not going to fold. Value-bet is easier when we are the first to play. If we have a low hand but which can casino game winner, we can check or put a bet at a blind level. If the game is average, we have to raise at the level of the last bets. If we have a strong game, an average raising to let opponents the occasion to call is enough and if the game is very strong, a significant raising, but not too much to not make him fold is also interesting.