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Poker Tips from
Bodog.com: Semi-Bluffing
Let's turn our attention to a very solid play you can make on the flop called semi-bluffing. Here
you bet on a weak hand, hoping everyone else will fold and you will win the pot right there, but if
you are called you still might win. Good examples of hands to semi-bluff with are second pair with
a strong kicker, an inside straight draw or a small pair with a draw (Ex. You: Ac-4c,
Flop: Kc-8c-4d).
A semi-bluff is best made from early position, as are all bluffs, to show strength. If everything
goes according to plan, your opponents will fold, if not you have a fighting chance. In most cases
it is better to make a semi-bluff rather then just checking and calling if you have no reason to
fear a raise. You want to be the aggressive one if you decide to play. If you are in last position
and have the luxury of giving yourself a free card, it is usually correct to do so and pass on the
semi-bluff to avoid being check-raised.
There are many advantages of integrating the check raise into your strategy. If opponents call
you and you do make your draw it will be hard for your opponents to read. They will put you on a
made hand if you raised on the flop, not a draw. This will be very profitable for you on the later
betting rounds, when the bets double. Also, if you semi-bluff on the flop and get no help on the
turn, it is likely that opponents ahead of you will check to you. You have effectively given
yourself a free card by semi-bluffing on the flop.
Lastly, by semi-bluffing you use your cards and situations to randomize your betting patterns to
your opponents. This is a very important step in keeping your opponents guessing about your play.
And, the best part about a semi-bluff is even when you get caught you can still win if help comes
on the turn or river.
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