Blackjack is a card game played between one or more players and a dealer. Each player receives two cards and can choose to either ask for more cards (hit) or stay with their current hand (stand), with the goal being to reach 21 or close without going over; similarly, the dealer also gets two cards but must hit until reaching 17 total (there may be some variations of blackjack but generally speaking odds should stay constant).
To make smart decisions at the table, it is crucial that you become acquainted with basic strategy. Utilizing a chart illustrating correct plays for every situation will increase your odds of victory – these charts can be found online, in books or magazines or any casino offering blackjack. Be sure that any chart that claims it covers all versions of blackjack that you are playing.
Splitting aces and eights will increase your odds of victory and reduce losses, thus increasing chances of victory and decreasing risk.
One important decision is whether to take insurance. When the dealer shows an ace up, players may place a side bet of half their original bet which pays 2-1 if they beat the dealer’s blackjack hand; otherwise, both bets will be lost – initial and insurance bet.
Surrender should be considered when faced with an inferior hand against the dealer’s up card, such as 14 or 15. Rather than gambling away a losing hand, surrender is best used when faced with odds that exceed 14-15; giving up is better than continuing betting and hoping for miracles to happen. You should set an absolute win limit limit of $100 that allows you to manage your bankroll better and avoid compulsive gambling.
As well as basic strategy, there are a variety of techniques you can employ to increase your edge over the house. Some strategies are straightforward such as standing on 17 or higher hands or hitting when the dealer shows six or lower cards; other approaches may involve splitting tens and eights or standing against soft 18 against their up card.
Once you understand the basic strategy, you can apply it to any variation of blackjack you encounter. While this won’t make you an expert player, but it could help you outwit the house and win money. Remember to play smart and not hard; remembering that luck only plays a small part. More studying equals more winning! Good luck!