Definition
A bluff is a bet or raise made with a hand that is unlikely to win at showdown, relying on fold equity.
Bluff
Betting with a hand that expects to lose at showdown if called.
Key points
- Bluff EV comes from folds plus occasional showdown wins.
- Good bluffs align with your value story and block continues.
- Over-bluffing is punished by calls; under-bluffing loses EV.
Common misconceptions
Myth
Bluffs are random.
Reality
Good bluffs are chosen based on blockers and range structure.
Myth
Bluffing is only for aggressive players.
Reality
Every strong strategy needs some bluffs.