7 Key Things to Remember When Playing Blackjack
Blackjack is a game of chance, but it’s also a game of skill. By using the right strategy, you can minimize the house edge and increase your chances of winning. There are a few key things to remember when playing blackjack:
Know the rules of the game. This includes knowing the odds of getting a particular hand and understanding how the dealer’s actions will affect your own. This will help you make the correct decision in every situation.
Understand that blackjack pays 3 to 2. This means that for every two dollars you wager on the game, you will get three back if you win. This is standard for most casinos and gives the dealer slightly elevated odds over the player.
Don’t be afraid to ask for another card. This is a good option when your current hand is close to 21, but you don’t want to go bust. However, you should only hit when you are certain that the next card will not give the dealer a better hand or when your hand is already close to 21 and you don’t mind taking a small risk.
When you have a hard hand (i.e., a hand value of 16 or less) and the dealer has an ace or a 10, double down. This is a great way to improve your odds of beating the dealer, as it will increase your chances of making a blackjack or at least winning more than you lose.
Always be aware of the dealer’s face up cards. This will inform you of when to stand, hit or double down. Also, be sure to keep track of the dealer’s previous cards. This will help you determine when it is time to reshuffle the cards and offer the players new ones.
Be consistent with your betting strategy. Changing your bet amount after each loss will make it more difficult to win. Similarly, increasing your bet after each win can get expensive quickly. It is important to stick with a consistent bet value and not make decisions based on emotion or streaks.
Memorize the basic blackjack strategy chart. You can print it out and bring it with you to the casino or use flashcards to practice. Having the chart handy will allow you to quickly and easily reference it when in doubt. This will help you learn the basic strategy faster and become a more proficient blackjack player.
Don’t be distracted by other players at the table. You are only competing against the dealer, so try to ignore other players’ decisions and focus on your own play. In addition, don’t be fooled by people who tell you that they have a secret strategy that will win you lots of money. The only guaranteed way to make money is by playing correctly. Frank Scoblete is the author of Beat Blackjack Now. He is an expert in blackjack and has a passion for writing about it. He has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and has worked at several Las Vegas casinos. He currently works as a poker dealer and enjoys traveling with his wife and their dog.