How to Win at Blackjack
Blackjack is one of the most popular casino table games. Usually played on semicircular tables that can accommodate varying numbers of players (or spots), the game involves dealing cards to each player and then deciding whether to hit, stand, or split and add another bet to the initial wager. The aim is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over, and the winner is the player who has a higher total than the dealer. The term “blackjack” originated in 17th and 18th century Europe as a combination of different card games, but it found its way to America after a few decades.
The first step to success at blackjack is to learn the rules of the game. This includes knowing the values of each card: face cards are worth 10 each, cards numbered 2-10 are worth their printed value, and aces count as either 1 or 11. Knowing this information can help you decide when to hit, stand, or double down in your hand.
Once you know the rules, it’s time to practice. A great place to start is a free online blackjack game. Practicing on the free version of the game allows you to focus on your strategy and not worry about making real money bets. The key is to practice often and always be sure that you use a strategy chart to guide your decisions.
As you play more and more hands, you’ll find that the house edge will slowly decrease. This is because you’ll be more familiar with the game and better able to make informed bets. However, it is important to remember that you are still playing against the dealer and that they have no obligation to beat you.
If a player’s first two cards are an ace and a ten-value card, giving a total of 21, the hand is called a “natural” or “blackjack,” and it wins immediately. The dealer then pays the player one and a half times their original bet, and the hand ends. If the dealer also has a natural, the hand is a tie and the bets are returned to their owners.
The dealer then checks their hole card, using a special viewing window in the table. If the dealer has a ten underneath, they have a blackjack and win everyone’s original bets. They will also take any insurance bets that were placed. Otherwise, the game continues as normal.
