7 Basic Blackjack Strategies to Help You Beat the House Edge

blackjack

Blackjack is a game that requires skill and patience. It’s also an adrenaline-pumping activity that can get you off track if you don’t manage your time and bankroll properly. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you can improve your game and increase your chances of winning by learning a few basic blackjack strategies.

Card counting

A blackjack strategy that incorporates card counting can be an effective way to boost your bankroll and beat the house edge. This is especially true if you play multiple hands of the game at a time.

This system involves keeping a running count of the cards and using a deck of cards. Once you’ve mastered this method, you can use the true count to make your bets more effective.

Dealer tells

The dealer’s facial expressions and behavior can affect your decisions at the blackjack table. They can help you predict which hole cards the dealer has. Moreover, they can give you a clue about what cards the dealer is likely to hold in the future.

Know when to walk away

Whenever you start feeling like the adrenaline is wearing off or your emotions are getting out of control, it’s time to leave the blackjack table. This will give you a chance to clear your mind and focus on your next move.

Take frequent breaks

When you play blackjack, it’s easy to lose track of time and forget about your strategy. It’s important to set a time limit for yourself and stick to it. This will prevent you from losing money and from taking too many risks at the table.

Learn the rules

Before you sit down at a blackjack table, read the rules carefully and understand them thoroughly. The rules of the game will determine how much you bet, what hand combinations you can use, and what the odds are.

Always split a pair of 8s and Aces

When a dealer shows an ace, players can choose to accept “even money” instead of playing their original bet. This is a bad strategy, though, as it’s statistically better to ignore the offer.

Pay attention to the dealer’s face and gestures

When the dealer shows an ace, you should be very careful not to touch or pick up your cards. The casinos are extremely paranoid about cheaters, and they’ll usually confiscate your cards if they suspect you’re trying to manipulate the outcome of the game.

If you’re not a fan of this, don’t be afraid to stand up and walk away from the table if you feel uneasy or nervous. This will help you clear your head and prevent you from straying from your bankroll management strategy.

Become a rated player

Some casinos allow rated players to play for lower wagers and receive special perks. These benefits vary by casino, but they can help you get more value for your money at the blackjack table.

Try to play at a table that is not too busy. If the crowd is too big, you might have a hard time making your bets.