Definition
A check-raise is a play where a player first checks their option, and then raises when an opponent bets. It is one of poker's most powerful moves, combining deception (appearing weak by checking) with aggression (raising after the opponent commits chips).
Check-raises serve multiple purposes: building the pot with strong hands, applying pressure to force folds from medium-strength hands, and as a bluffing tool (the check-raise bluff) to represent a very strong hand on favorable board textures. The play is particularly effective because it suggests the checker was "trapping" with a strong hand.
In modern GTO play, check-raising strategies are calibrated carefully — mixing strong hands and bluffs to maintain balance. Over-checking-raising becomes exploitable; under-checking-raising leaves value on the table. The best check-raising spots combine board textures that favor the checker's range with hands that have fold equity or strong equity when called.
Example
You hold 7♣7♦ on a 7♠5♠4♣ flop (flopped bottom set). You check. Your opponent bets 60% pot. You check-raise to 3x the bet. This both builds the pot with your strong hand and protects against flush and straight draws.