What is the most fundamental definition of a string bet in poker?

A string bet occurs when a player places chips into the pot in more than one distinct motion, without first verbally declaring the total amount of their bet or raise. The key elements are multiple motions and the absence of a prior binding verbal statement.

Why are string bets strictly prohibited in organized poker games?

String bets are prohibited primarily to prevent 'angle shooting,' where a player could gauge an opponent's reaction to a partial bet before deciding to commit to the full amount. This grants an unfair informational advantage and disrupts the integrity and pace of the game.

What are the two acceptable ways to make a valid bet or raise without committing a string bet?

You must either: 1) Verbally declare the full amount of your bet or raise before moving any chips, or 2) Place all the required chips into the pot in a single, continuous, forward motion without any hesitation or subsequent additions.

What happens if a player makes a string bet during a hand?

If a string bet is ruled, typically only the chips placed into the pot during the first continuous motion are counted as the official bet or raise. Any subsequently added chips are returned to the player, and they are not allowed to complete their intended larger action.

Does verbally declaring 'raise' and then placing chips for the call followed by raise chips constitute a string raise?

Yes, if you only say 'raise' without specifying the total amount of the raise, and then you put chips in for the call and subsequently add more chips for the raise in a separate motion, that is a string raise. You must declare the *total* amount of your raise (e.g., 'raise to five hundred') before any chips are moved.

String Bet

Betting Actions

Flóri FeterikAuthor

Reviewed by Adam Biro

Updated: 2026.01.30

In the intricate world of poker, where strategy and psychology intertwine, adherence to procedural rules is paramount for maintaining game integrity and fostering a fair environment. Among these regulations, the concept of a string bet stands out as a fundamental, yet often misunderstood, prohibition. This practice, involving the placement of chips in multiple, non-continuous movements without a prior verbal declaration, is universally disallowed in organized poker, from casual home games to high-stakes casino tournaments. Understanding the nuances of string bets is not merely about avoiding penalties; it's about grasping a core principle designed to prevent unfair tactical advantages and ensure transparent gameplay for all participants.
This expert guide will dissect the string bet, exploring its definition, the critical reasons for its prohibition, and providing clear, actionable advice on how players can execute their betting and raising actions impeccably. By mastering these protocols, you not only enhance your own game but contribute to the integrity and enjoyment of the entire poker table.

Understanding the String Bet in Poker: Definition and Core Principles

At its most fundamental level, what is a string bet? A string bet in poker occurs when a player initiates a bet or a raise by placing chips into the pot in more than one distinct motion, without first verbally announcing the total amount of their intended action. For instance, pushing a stack of chips forward, withdrawing the hand, and then adding another stack to the initial amount would constitute this violation if no verbal declaration preceded the first motion. This rule is a cornerstone of live etiquette, enforced rigorously in virtually all professional settings. Its strict enforcement underscores the importance of clear, unambiguous actions at the table.

Interestingly, this common physical error is completely non-existent in online poker , as the software interface requires you to input a specific amount or move a slider before committing, making an accidental string bet impossible.

The Rationale Behind the Prohibition: Upholding Game Integrity

The primary reason string bets are forbidden is to safeguard against "angle shooting" - actions that exploit loopholes for an unfair advantage. This is a critical component of poker angle shooting prevention. A player could theoretically place a portion of their bet, observe an opponent's reaction, and then decide whether to complete the full amount. This allows them to glean information they would not legitimately possess. Such actions undermine the principle of fair play. Beyond ethics, string bets impede the natural flow of the game. Hesitations and multiple movements introduce delays, causing frustration and slowing down the decision-making process for everyone at the table.

Navigating the Rules: How to Execute Valid Bets and Raises

To avoid inadvertently making a mistake and ensure your actions follow official poker rules, players must adhere to universally accepted poker betting rules. There are two primary methods for placing valid bets:

1. The Power of Verbal Declaration

Before any chips touch the felt, clearly and audibly declare the full, exact amount of your intended bet or raise. Once the amount is declared, it is binding. For example, if you say, "I bet six thousand" you are committed to that amount. You can then physically place the chips into the pot in one or multiple movements, as the commitment has already been made verbally. This method provides maximum clarity and prevents any ambiguity about your action.

2. The Uninterrupted Motion

If you choose not to declare your action verbally, you must place all the required chips into the pot in a single, continuous, forward motion. There should be no hesitation, no pulling back of the hand, and no subsequent addition of chips. The chips must be pushed forward as a single, cohesive unit representing the entire bet or raise amount.

Illustrative Examples:

Correct Bet: A player wants to bet 6,000 chips. They either say "Six thousand" and then place the chips, or they push a single stack of 6,000 chips forward in one smooth, continuous action without speaking.
Incorrect Bet (String Bet): A player pushes 2,500 chips into the pot, hesitates, looks at their opponent, and then pushes another 3,500 chips into the pot, without having verbally declared the total beforehand.

The Specifics of a String Raise

A "string raise" is a particular type of violation that occurs when a player declares "raise" (or pushes chips for a call) and then, in a separate motion, adds the chips required to complete the raise without an initial verbal total. Avoiding string raises is essential for maintaining professional decorum. The most common scenario involves a player pushing out chips equivalent to a call, then pulling their hand back, and only afterward pushing out more chips for the raise. If a player clearly states, "I'll raise to ten thousand" they are then free to place the chips in any manner.

Consequences of a String Bet in Poker: What Happens When You Break the Rule?

When a violation is identified, the ruling is typically straightforward: only the chips initially placed into the pot during the first continuous motion are counted as binding. Any subsequent chips added in a separate motion are usually returned, and the player is not permitted to complete their intended larger action. This consequence reinforces the importance of proper poker chip placement. If a player pushed 2,000 chips, hesitated, then pushed another 3,000, their action would simply be a bet of 2,000. This rule effectively prevents players from gauging an opponent's physical reaction before committing their full stack to the pot.

Practical Tips for Avoiding String Bets at the Table

Always Declare First: When in doubt about chip placement, verbalize your full action ("Call" "Bet [amount]" "Raise to [amount]") before moving any chips.
Organize Your Chips: Keep your chips in neat stacks, making it easier to push the exact amount in a single motion.
Practice Smooth Motions: Familiarize yourself with pushing chips forward decisively and continuously.
When Raising, State the Total: Instead of "Raise X more" say "Raise to Y" (where Y is the total amount of your bet).
Ask the Dealer: If you are unsure about the proper procedure for a specific action, politely ask the dealer for clarification.

Pros	Cons
The rule effectively eliminates opportunities for players to gain unfair information by observing opponents' reactions to partial bets, ensuring a level playing field.	If a string bet is ruled, the player's intended larger bet or raise is often reduced to the initial continuous amount, potentially forcing a less favorable action.
By requiring decisive, clear actions, the rule prevents delays and ensures that hands proceed efficiently, benefiting all players at the table.	Newcomers to live poker may find the intricacies of chip placement and verbal declarations challenging, leading to unintentional violations.
Clear betting procedures minimize ambiguity about a player's intention, reducing the likelihood of arguments or misunderstandings at the table.