Probe

Basic Definition

A Probe refers to a bet made by the out-of-position (OOP) player after the preflop raiser checks instead of making a continuation bet on the flop.

In other words, a Probe is
the OOP version of a BMCB (Bet vs Missed C-Bet).

Note: The IP version of a BMCB is called a Stab.

Specific Situation

Board:
BTN open-raises, BB calls.
On the flop, BB checks and the BTN (the preflop raiser) checks back.
When the turn comes , the BB—being out of position—leads out with a bet,
which is the classic example of a Probe.

Important Information

• A Probe capitalizes on the fact that the original raiser’s skipped c-bet often indicates a weakened range.
• Even though OOP lacks positional advantage,
  probing allows them to regain initiative and deny equity.
• In both GTO and practical play,
  Probes are a critical part of turn strategy, especially on textures that favor the caller.

Examples of Term Usage

“He probes very frequently on the turn, so checking back too often on the flop becomes problematic.”