Raising for Information in Poker

Under normal circumstances, raising to elicit information is a pretty dumb play, but in the modern game this form of raise has crept back in. 

The situation usually occurs on ace high or Broadway high rainbow flops. A player has raised pre flop and has then followed up their aggression with a continuation bet on the flop.

The opponent in the hand is expecting the c-bet and therefore makes the raise. This has become a common situation, and as the player facing the raise, you should think carefully before tossing your hand into the muck.

You have to look at the hand from your opponent’s point of view. Your pre-flop raise and c-bet on the dry flop is a standard play, and your opponent will be expecting you to do this with your entire range. 

Understanding this dynamic, what do you think your opponent would do if they had flopped a hand as strong as a set in this situation? 

They know you are weak, so raising would fold out all other hands. So, it is more likely that he or she is raising for information. They believe you have a weak hand are looking to see where they stand. 

Now, if you re-raise in this spot, you are making a very strong statement. You are giving them the information they need, which is to fold their hand. Just calling also gives them information – that you are weak – and thus allows them to put more pressure on when the turn hits the deck.

So, the next time you face a raise on a dry ace high or Broadway flop, take your time before folding and ask yourself, "are they raising for information?”