5 Tips and Strategy for Playing Better Blackjack
The object of blackjack is to get your hand as close to 21 without going over. You play against the dealer. If their hand is higher than yours, you lose. If you hand is the highest, you win.
To start, each player is dealt two cards. The dealer is also dealt two cards, except that one card is dealt face up. You have the option to get more cards (“hit”) or stand if you think you are close enough to 21. You can take as many cards as you want until you stand or go over 21 (“bust”).
Blackjack is a strategy game. There are some basic rules you should learn about when to hit and when to stand. They depend mostly on your hand and the card the dealer has showing. These rules are called “basic strategy” and most casinos have a little wallet-sized card you can purchase in the gift shop that tells you what to do with each hand. There are also internet sites and books that teach the finer aspects of basic strategy.
Here are some basic tips you can use to gain an edge in the casino:
1. It’s better to always stand on a 17 or higher.
2. If you have cards showing between 13 and 16 stand if the dealer card is lower than 6, otherwise hit. Assuming the dealer’s down card is a 10, he or she should hit and you’re banking on a bust.
3. Stand on a hard 12 if the dealer is showing 4, 5, or 6. Hit if the dealer is showing 2, 3, 7, or higher.
4. Split Aces or 8s regardless of the dealer’s showing card.
5. Don’t split 10s or face cards. There’s a greater chance of going bust. Enjoy the fact that you have 20 and let it go. Don’t split fours or fives, either.
While no system or rule will win 100% of the time, it’s been shown that basic strategy will give you an overall edge in the game. Take time to learn the rules and stick to them during the game – don’t let your emotions get in the way – and you’ll generally come out ahead.
