Blackjack is a simple casino game that’s easy to learn and fun to play. But it’s also a game with many moves that affect your chances of winning, so you should take the time to understand them.
Basic Strategy: This is the first step to winning at blackjack, and there are plenty of free resources online that can help you get started. Once you have a solid understanding of the game’s rules, you can expand your approach to include different betting systems.
The most common is the Martingale System, which involves doubling your bet every time you lose a hand. It’s not ideal for beginner players, though, as you can easily end up with a losing streak that can drain your bankroll quickly.
If you’re a beginner, it’s best to stick to low-stakes tables for the initial stage of your game. High-stakes tables are typically full of experienced players who have honed their blackjack skills and are playing with enough money to burn, so they won’t be a great match for you if you’re just starting out.
Insurance: If you’re dealt an ace, the dealer will ask you if you want to make an insurance bet. This bet pays 2 to 1 if the dealer’s up card is an Ace, but it’s not usually recommended because it increases the house edge for the player.
Split Hands: If you’re dealt two identical cards, you can split them into two separate hands. This allows you to use more of your bankroll, and gives you a higher chance of winning.
In most games, splitting is allowed once a player has made a wager, but not in some variations of the game. This is a good strategy to practice before you go on a real-money trip, so you’re prepared for the possibility that your initial bet may not cover you after you split.
A Running Count and True Count: One of the best strategies for beginner players is to start by keeping a running count, which is the total number of cards in your hand as they’re turned over. If you’re able to keep this total quickly and quietly, you’ll be able to see if you have a strong advantage over the dealer.
The other option is to keep a true count, which uses your counting skills to predict the dealer’s up card. This can help you make the right decision about whether to hit, stand, or double down.
Counting is important in any card game, but it’s especially useful in blackjack because dealers shuffle the deck after each round. Using a running count can help you predict which cards will be dealt after a shuffle, and you can even look for patterns in the way they’re placed.
Another strategy to learn is shuffle tracking, which involves watching how the croupier deals cards after a shuffle. This can be a bit tricky at first, but it’s worth learning because it can give you an idea of how many decks are in play and how they’re being dealt.