Blackjack is a card game played between player and dealer using one or more decks of cards with numerical values; face cards (worth 10), ace (which may or may not count for 11), number values (1 to 13) and an ace (1-11). The objective is to build hands closer to 21 than those held by the dealer, using hitting, standing, doubling down or surrendering as dictated by predetermined rules – winning means getting paid if either their hand exceeds or “busts,” otherwise tied games result in a draw resulted in push.
Before diving in to any game of any sort, take time to familiarize yourself with its basic rules. In addition, setting a bankroll and predetermined how much per hand betting you’re comfortable making will help avoid making emotionally-driven decisions that put your funds at risk.
Once you’ve decided how much you wish to wager, begin practicing your strategy. Doing this will allow you to develop a plan for each session and improve overall game play. Furthermore, keep the dealer’s odds in mind; their percentages may change based on house rules but will always remain significantly higher than player odds.
Even though it is more likely for dealers to win than for you to, this doesn’t mean you cannot beat them! By following sound blackjack strategies and adhering to your betting plan, you can minimize house edge and increase chances of victory.
Hitting can often be the wiser decision in certain instances. When your first two cards add up to 12 or higher and the dealer’s up card is either 2 or 3, hitting may increase your odds of beating him/her and vice versa; 11 against 3 should also be hit on.
Your initial two cards should never total 16 or lower as this increases the risk of busting. However, if they contain either an Ace and 10 (or an Ace and 9), hitting could give you an excellent opportunity to beat the dealer’s hand and is statistically sound.
Double down when your first two cards total 11 or higher and the dealer’s upcard is 2 or 3, increasing your bet by twofold depending on blackjack house rules. Doubling down is an excellent strategy because it increases your chances of drawing a card that strengthens your hand like 10, preventing the dealer from getting a blackjack and beating your hand! Although this can be risky, double down is often worthwhile and provides beginners with a way to maximize profits and increase odds.
