Blackjack is a card game that pits players against the dealer. Its simplicity makes it a popular game, but incorporating strategy helps neutralize the house edge and improve your odds of winning. By following these tips, you can make the most of your casino experience.
The first step in playing blackjack is placing your bet. The minimum and maximum bets are usually posted on the table. After placing your bet, the dealer will deal each player two cards face up. You can then decide to “hit” to request additional cards or to “stand” to keep your current hand. If your hand totals 21 or higher, you win; if it is less than 21, you lose. If the dealer gets a Blackjack, you also lose (unless your hand is a blackjack as well). If your hand is equal to the dealer’s, it’s a push and you get your original bet back.
You can increase your chances of winning by avoiding side bets. These side bets, like Perfect Pairs and 21+3, often have a house edge of more than 10%. It’s best to avoid them unless you’re willing to risk your entire bankroll. It’s also important to practice responsible gambling by setting a budget and sticking to it.
If your hand is worth more than the dealer’s, you win. If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win and are paid an amount equal to your original bet. If your hand exceeds 21, you bust and lose your bet. If your hand is equal to the dealer’s, you have a tie or push and get your bet back.
When to hit
The basic strategy chart is a valuable tool for learning when to hit and stand in blackjack. The chart is based on probability and includes charts for both hard and soft hands. It also includes a section for when to double down and when to surrender. These tables can be difficult to remember, so it’s a good idea to print or save them for easy reference.
When to stand
When your hand is 17 or higher, it’s a good idea to stand. You’ll be less likely to bust this way and you’ll give the dealer a better chance of getting a weak upcard. However, if your hand isn’t 17, it’s sometimes smarter to hit.
Whenever possible, you should split your starting two cards that have the same value, such as two eights or two threes. You’ll place a second bet equal to your original and then play each card as a separate hand. This strategy increases your chances of hitting a 21 and can help you win more money than if you just hit each hand individually. It’s also a good idea to split sevens, sixes, and threes if the dealer is showing a five or six.