Check-Raise
Action Level · Intermediate Aliases: check raise, x/r
A check-raise means checking first, then raising after an opponent bets on the same street.
What is Check-Raise
A check-raise requires three actions on one street: you check, an opponent bets, and then you raise when the action returns. It builds a pot quickly with strong hands, and it applies pressure as a semi-bluff with hands that hold equity. Because raising inflates the pot fast, the range is usually more concentrated than a calling range. Before using it, consider who has the range advantage, how often the opponent bets and at what size, and which turn cards let you keep attacking. Check-raising only with two pair or better makes your range transparent; turning every draw into a raise leaves your calling range too weak. A complete strategy has value hands and selected semi-bluffs appearing together.
On the felt
Table6-max cash game
PositionBB vs BTN
Flop6♠5♦2♣
ActionCheck then raise to 7BB holding 8♠7♠
Example
You hold 8♠7♠ in the big blind and check a flop of 6♠5♦2♣. The button bets 1.8BB and you raise to 7BB. The hand holds an open-ended straight draw, so it still improves when called.
Common mistakes
- Calling a bet-then-raise a check-raise. The order must be your check, their bet, then your raise.
- Only check-raising your strongest hands. Without semi-bluffs alongside them, a good opponent simply folds every marginal hand.
Related terms
All-in
Going all-in means putting every remaining chip you have into the pot.
Bluff
A bluff is a bet made with a weak hand, aiming to make better hands fold.
Call
Calling means matching the current bet to stay in the hand.
Check
Checking means passing the action without putting in chips when there is no bet to face.
Continuation Bet
A continuation bet is a bet on the flop by the player who raised last before it.
Fold
Folding gives up your hand and any claim to the pot, ending your involvement in it.