check-raise
ActionAliases: x/r, 让加, 过牌加注
A check-raise is when the OOP player checks first and raises after the opponent bets — the core tool for balancing the OOP range.
A check-raise (often abbreviated x/r) is the action sequence where the player out of position checks, the opponent bets, and the OOP player then raises.
Detailed Explanation
The OOP player has no information advantage and is stuck in a "first to act" disadvantage. Attacking purely by leading lets the opponent see flops cheaply with weak hands. The check-raise solves this:
- Induce the opponent to commit chips first: after they cbet into the pot, raise to inflate
- Balance the check range: if you only bet OOP with strong hands and check with weak ones, the opponent's cbet frequency skyrockets — the check-raise keeps the check range non-exploitable
Composition of a check-raise range:
- Value check-raise: two pair+, top pair big kicker, strong draws
- Bluff check-raise: semi-bluffs with strong blockers (e.g. flush draw + gutshot)
Common Use Cases
- vs a high-frequency cbettor: check-raise frequency should go up to punish their bluffs
- Wet boards: check-raise sizing is usually larger (2.5-3×), reflecting the equity distribution
- Turn check-raise: more threatening, but requires a stronger backing range