Blackjack is one of the few casino games that relies on skill as much as luck. By applying optimal blackjack strategies, understanding basic blackjack principles and managing your bankroll, you can increase your chances of winning. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a long-term winner at the blackjack table.
Know when to hit
If you’re dealt a two-card hand that totals 11 or less, you should always hit. This will give you the best chance to win if the dealer has a weak card, and it will make your hand stronger in the event that you have a strong hand. However, if you have a two-card hand that totals 13 or higher, it’s usually better to stand. This is because you’re not risking your entire bankroll if you bust, and the odds of beating the dealer aren’t as great.
Understand when to split
Splitting a pair of cards such as eights or aces is almost always the right play in blackjack. This will give you the best chance of making a 21 and can help you avoid losing hands that you could have won by hitting. You should also consider splitting pairs of nines, sevens, sixes, and threes. This will minimize your losses and increase the number of winning hands you’ll have in the long run.
Learn how to count cards
There are a number of different card counting systems, but the most common is the Hi-Lo method. To use this system, you need to keep track of the total value of the cards that are dealt. Once you’ve done this, you can decide whether to hit or stay based on your current hand and the dealer’s upcard.
Practice before you play for real money
Before you start playing for real money, be sure to set a winning and losing limit. This will help you manage your bankroll and stop you from getting carried away with your gambling. Also, remember that the house has an edge in all casino games. This is why it’s important to stick with your blackjack strategy and never get carried away.
How to handle your betting
You can improve your chances of winning at blackjack by altering the size of your bet based on the outcome of previous hands. Changing the size of your bets can help you take advantage of winning streaks and cut your losses when you’re on a losing streak. However, you should avoid using betting systems such as the Martingale or Paroli, which are mathematical progressions that can cause you to lose more than you win.
The blackjack strategy chart can help you determine the right move for every situation. It is a simple chart that will tell you what to do based on the value of your hand and the dealer’s upcard. It will also show you when it is a good idea to double down, split, or surrender. While these charts aren’t 100% perfect, they can significantly reduce your loss over time.
