Blackjack is a game of luck and skill, but a basic understanding of strategy can dramatically improve your odds. While it’s impossible to eliminate the house edge completely, the right moves can make a huge difference in your winning percentage. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most important concepts you need to know to make the most of your time at the blackjack table.
Basic blackjack strategy is based on the idea that you should always play to beat the dealer, regardless of your hand’s value. This is why it’s so important to understand when it’s appropriate to hit, stand, split, or double down. You can use a blackjack cheat sheet to help you make the best decision for every situation. It will show you what the best move is based on the initial two cards and the dealer’s up card.
When to hit
One of the most common mistakes in blackjack is hitting when it’s not necessary. Unless you have a total of 16 or less, you should never hit if the dealer has an ace up. If you have a total of 11 or more, however, it is generally a good idea to hit. This will give you a higher chance of getting a 10 or face card, which will boost your hand value to 20 or 21.
When to double down
Doubling down in blackjack is a betting option that can be very profitable when used correctly. It’s a great way to maximize your winning potential when you have a strong starting hand like an 11 or 12. Simply put, it’s when you’re confident that one more card will give you a better chance of beating the dealer’s hand.
When to split
A player has the option to split pairs in blackjack, which allows her to create two hands from the initial two cards she’s dealt. A pair of aces or eights is a good example, but you should also consider splitting nines, sevens, and sixes. However, splitting a pair of threes or twos is usually not recommended.
When to stay
There are some situations when it’s better to stand in blackjack, which can save you money compared to hitting or splitting. This is especially true if the dealer has a low card showing, such as a 6, 8, or 10. In these cases, it’s generally a good idea to stay and hope that your hand won’t bust against the dealer’s upcard.
When to surrender
Blackjack is a great game for players of all ages and skill levels. The rules are simple and the house edge is relatively low, but you can increase your chances of winning by learning some basic strategies. There are even ways to make your blackjack experience more fun with side bets, such as Four 20s Blackjack. You can learn about these side bets and other unique blackjack variations by visiting DraftKings. They offer blackjack games with a variety of themes to choose from.