Blackjack is a game of chance, but it’s also one of the few casino games where skill and strategy can significantly decrease the house edge. There are a number of strategies that players can use to improve their chances of winning, including card counting, splitting, and doubling down. By utilizing these strategies, blackjack players can make informed decisions about when to hit or stand, thereby maximizing their chances of winning.
Basic Blackjack Terminology
There are a few important terms to know when playing blackjack, such as the terms ‘hit’ (asking for another card),’stand’ (keeping your current hand), and ‘bust’ (exceeding 21). It’s also helpful to understand the difference between a soft and hard hand. A soft hand contains an ace that can be counted as 1 or 11, while a hard hand does not.
Aside from these basic terms, it’s also important to understand the rules of blackjack. If you don’t follow the rules, you could get banned from a casino or worse – lose money! This is why it’s vital to choose a table that offers the rules you prefer, and avoid playing at casinos where the dealers are slow or distracted. In addition, it’s important to play with a clear mind and not while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Keeping a running count of the cards can dramatically increase your odds of winning, but this requires a lot of practice. The best way to practice is by using a single deck of cards and counting them as you turn them over. Once you have mastered the basic count, you can move on to the true count. This takes the running count and divides it by the number of decks in play, which provides more information about the odds of a dealer getting a blackjack.
Splitting is an option that allows you to double down with a pair of starting cards that have the same value, such as two nines or two threes. When you split, you place a second bet of equal value and then play each card as its own hand until you decide to stay or bust. This is a great strategy when the dealer has a weak upcard and you’re in a good position to win.
Generally, you should always double down when the dealer has a weak upcard, but don’t do it when they have a strong one. You should also hit when you have a low total like 12 or 16 against a dealer’s 10, but don’t hit on a high total of 17 or higher against a dealer’s 10. If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win and are paid one time your wager. Ties are considered a push and you keep your bet. This is why effective bankroll management is critical to long-term success in blackjack. Ensure that you are only betting one to two percent of your total bankroll per hand to minimize risk.