Blackjack may be a game of luck, but its house edge can be reduced through proper strategy and money management. A solid understanding of the rules combined with disciplined bet placement will lead to long-term fun and success – just don’t let emotions cloud your judgment or make hasty decisions when losing hands! Instead, stick to solid money management practices.
When playing blackjack, both you and the dealer are given two cards face up that add up to 21, called a natural or “blackjack.” If this occurs, then your hand wins automatically; otherwise it loses as soon as either hand doesn’t match. Ties count as draws and any bet remains on the table.
Once you’ve been dealt two cards, you have two choices to make – hit or stand. When hitting, additional cards from the dealer may help strengthen your hand; when standing you request none. When hitting, additional cards from the dealer may improve it further. You may also double down, which increases both payout and odds by doubling down and receiving one additional card only.
The dealer then reveals their cards and draws until they reach 17 or more, or has a blackjack. If the dealer has one and you don’t, and your hand value exceeds theirs by more than 1 point, you lose; otherwise it’s a tie game.
While playing blackjack, try keeping a running count of all the cards you’ve seen. This gives an indication of how many high-value cards remain compared with low-value ones in the deck; counting systems such as Hi-Lo can help give this impression; you could even practice keeping a true count that takes your running count and divides it by the total decks in play for even greater precision.
As well as familiarizing oneself with basic strategy charts, it’s advisable to study some of the secondary bets available in blackjack. Some casinos pay 6 to 5 for Blackjacks which increases the house edge and makes it harder to beat dealers. Insurance offers two to one returns if dealers hold an ace card; it is generally best avoided.
Effective money management is key in playing blackjack. Before beginning a game, set and adhere to both a losing and winning limit before betting any real money. For optimal success in this regard, look for casinos offering multiple tables so you can switch tables when necessary. Aim for betting no more than two percent of your bankroll per hand for the best experience; high stakes games may quickly deplete funds leaving you exposed financially.