Isolation raise
A raise after one or more limpers designed to get heads-up against a weak player, in position, with the initiative. The aim is to isolate the limper rather than to build a pot with a monster.
Frequently asked questions
What is an isolation raise?
Raising with the main purpose of folding out the players behind so you end up heads-up against one particular opponent — usually a limper or a short stack whose range is weak.
Why isolate rather than just call?
Because a weak player is only worth targeting if you get them alone. Calling invites three other players in, which destroys the edge: a mediocre hand that is well ahead of one limper is behind a four-way field.
How should you size an isolation raise?
Bigger than a standard open — enough to make calling with speculative hands unattractive for the players behind. Position matters too: isolating from late position works, isolating from early position just builds a pot you will play out of position.