Deciding when to 3-bet in an MTT can be a crucial decision, especially when it is in the later stages. When a player at the table opens for a raise and you decide to 3-bet, you are most likely going to be committing 7-9 big blinds pre-flop – which will be a huge chunk of your stack in the late stages of an MTT. So before you commit 9 big blinds, make sure you are picking a good spot to 3-bet.
Why 3-bet?
3-betting is appropriate when re-raising for value, when you think the BurnPoker.com opening raiser is steal-raising so you 3-bet to resteal, and to induce a shove by your opponent. Additionally, the three bet is appropriate when you have a vulnerable hand and think you can get the opening raiser to fold a hand, which is either slightly ahead or slightly behind your hand.
For example, a middle position player opens for a raise, and you have As-Js on the button. You and your opponent each have 30 big blind stacks. You 3-bet, thus committing 7.5 big blinds of your stack. After you 3-bet, he 4-bet shoves and you fold. Many players make this common mistake. Unless you are 3-bet stealing, do not re-raise if you are going to fold to a 4-bet.
Consider player type before Re-raising
When three betting on FullTiltPoker.com, consider the type of player who is opening the pot. A potential three bettor is wise to consider stack sizes, as well as the players to act behind you. If a very tight player is opening for a raise, you should really think twice about reraising with a pair of Tens. If the player opening the pot is a crazy LAG, then 3-betting with Tens is a much better play. You do not mind taking down the pot pre-flop and if he shoves, you can still confidently call.
Stacks sizes also will play a role in your decision. In general, 3-betting when your opponent has a big stack, rather than a short stack is a better decision. Take this example: With blinds at 100-200, a stack with 2400 in middle position opens to 600. You are directly to his left, have 10,000 chips and look down at Aces. Rather than 3-betting try flat calling, especially when there are aggressive players left to act behind you. In this scenario, many aggressive players will try a squeeze play, which you would more than welcome.
3-betting can often make or break a player late in a MTT, so take your time and think about all your options before doing so.