[PorkchopDJG]

Since limit holdem at it's core is about getting maximum bets when you are ahead and losing the minimum when you are behind but drawing (or folding when you don't have the odds) Value betting especially on the river is very important. I used to not bet with just top pair in multiway pots or if a scary card came even against one opponent on the river but I now realize that these bets when you are ahead are essential to making the maximum you can.

Now against 5 opponents as in your example I'm probably not betting out into that many on the river with one pair. When 4 to the flush or straight come on the river I'm probably not betting with 2 or more opponents but in most cases you need to value bet on the river when you are strongly confident that you have the best hand.

I think this is one of the top ways that most decent players can increase their earn and improve their game.