DEV Community

Cover image for Winning Strategies for Blackjack
Eric Dequevedo
Eric Dequevedo

Posted on • Originally published at rics-notebook.com

Winning Strategies for Blackjack

Winning Strategies for Blackjack ๐Ÿƒโ™ ๏ธโ™ฅ๏ธโ™ฆ๏ธโ™ฃ๏ธ

Blackjack is a popular casino card game where the objective is to have a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer's hand without exceeding 21. There are various strategies to enhance your chances of winning at blackjack. One crucial strategy is to play by the book, which means adhering to a set of statistically advantageous rules. Several books can teach you how to play blackjack by the book.

Specific Cases ๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŽฒ

Here are some specific cases where playing by the book can be beneficial:

  • When the dealer's upcard is a 10 or an Ace: In this scenario, it is generally better to stand, regardless of your hand. The dealer has a high likelihood of busting, and you don't want to risk going over 21. ๐Ÿšซโœ‹
  • When the dealer's upcard is a 2, 3, 4, or 5: In this situation, it is typically better to hit, regardless of your hand. The dealer has a low chance of busting, and you want to maximize your odds of having a hand closer to 21 than the dealer's hand. โฌ†๏ธโœ…
  • When you have a blackjack: In this case, you should always stand because blackjack is the best possible hand, and you don't want to risk losing it by taking another card. ๐Ÿ’ฏ๐Ÿฅ‡

Basic Strategy Chart ๐Ÿ“Š

The following chart provides a detailed guide on when to hit, stay, split, or double down based on your cards and the dealer's upcard:

Your Hand Dealer's Upcard (2-10, A)
Hard Totals
8 or less Hit
9 Double down against 3-6, otherwise hit
10 Double down against 2-9, otherwise hit
11 Double down against 2-10, otherwise hit
12 Stand against 4-6, otherwise hit
13-16 Stand against 2-6, otherwise hit
17-21 Always stand
Soft Totals
Soft 13-14 Double down against 5-6, otherwise hit
Soft 15-16 Double down against 4-6, otherwise hit
Soft 17 Double down against 3-6, otherwise hit
Soft 18 Double down against 2-6, stand against 7-8, hit against 9-A
Soft 19-21 Always stand
Pairs
2-2, 3-3, 6-6, 7-7, 9-9 Split against 2-7, otherwise hit
4-4 Split against 5-6, otherwise hit
5-5 Double down against 2-9, otherwise hit
8-8 Split against 2-9, otherwise hit
10-10 Always stand
A-A Split against 2-10, otherwise hit

Running Count ๐Ÿƒโ€โ™‚๏ธ๐Ÿ”ข

Another essential blackjack strategy is using a running count. A running count tracks the number of high and low cards played in the deck, helping you make more informed decisions about hitting or standing. To calculate a running count, start with a count of zero. Add 1 to the count every time a high card (10, Jack, Queen, King, or Ace) is played, and subtract 1 from the count every time a low card (2, 3, 4, 5, or 6) is played. โž•โž–

You can use the running count to make better decisions about hitting or standing. For example, if the running count is positive, there are more high cards in the deck than low cards. This increases your chances of getting a blackjack if you hit, so you should hit more frequently. ๐Ÿ“ˆ๐Ÿƒ

Here's how a running count can affect your decision-making based on the basic strategy chart:

  • If the running count is +2 or higher, you should stand on 12 against a dealer's 2 or 3 (instead of hitting).
  • If the running count is +3 or higher, you should double down on 9 against a dealer's 2 (instead of hitting).
  • If the running count is +4 or higher, you should double down on soft 19 against a dealer's 6 (instead of standing).

Remember, the running count becomes more accurate as more cards are played, so it's essential to keep track throughout the entire game.

Tricks to Remember Basic Strategy ๐Ÿง โœจ

Memorizing the basic strategy chart can seem daunting, but there are some tricks to help you remember:

  1. Always split aces and 8s: This is one of the most important rules to remember, as it can significantly improve your chances of winning. ๐Ÿ†Ž8๏ธโƒฃ
  2. Never split 5s or 10s: Splitting 5s reduces your chances of getting a strong hand, while splitting 10s reduces your chances of getting a winning hand. 5๏ธโƒฃ๐Ÿ”Ÿ
  3. Double down on 11: Whenever you have a hand totaling 11, you should double down, as this gives you a high chance of getting a winning hand without going bust. 1๏ธโƒฃ1๏ธโƒฃ
  4. Use a mnemonic device: Create a memorable phrase or acronym to help you remember specific rules, such as "Always Stay on 17" (AS17) or "Never Bust with 12 Against 2 or 3" (NB123). ๐ŸŽญ๐Ÿ” 

Leveraging a Running Count to Win Big ๐Ÿ’ฐ๐Ÿ†

By maintaining a running count and using it to make informed decisions about hitting or standing, you can gain a significant advantage over the casino. Some experts estimate that a skilled blackjack player can have an edge of up to 1% over the casino. ๐ŸŽ“๐ŸŽฐ

However, it's essential to practice your skills and strategies before attempting to use a running count in a real casino. Many casinos frown upon card counting and may ask you to leave if they suspect you of using this technique. ๐Ÿ‘€๐Ÿšซ

Conclusion ๐ŸŽ‰

No strategy is foolproof, and there is always a risk of losing money when playing blackjack. However, following the tips in this article can increase your chances of winning and make the game more enjoyable. ๐ŸŽ‰๐Ÿ˜ƒ

Remember to:

  • Play by the book and follow the basic strategy chart
  • Keep a running count to make informed decisions
  • Use tricks to remember specific rules and strategies
  • Practice your skills before attempting to use advanced techniques in a real casino

With dedication and practice, you can become a skilled blackjack player and increase your chances of winning big! ๐Ÿ’ฐ๐Ÿƒ

Top comments (8)

Collapse
 
gohan_b82aa4c1be2122176cb profile image
Gohan

All of these fantastic perks may be had simply by installing the Royal X Casino app for free. Whether you are looking for a pleasant escape or a possible opportunity to earn real money, Royal x casino offers a comprehensive package, making it a popular choice among Pakistani gamers.

Collapse
 
grommor profile image
Amir • Edited

If you are going to play online casino for the first time, choosing the right website is extremely important. Not just your gaming experience, but a lot more depends on the website you choose. For that, you need to do some research, go through some reviews on trusted sites like this one theonlinecasinos.ca with best casinos app and try to find out the most popular ones.

Collapse
 
grommor profile image
Amir • Edited

Go to this Learn more here and collect normal money. Since playing on this portal, I have never lost. Try it out. I wish you the best of luck and big jackpots.

Collapse
 
mira883 profile image
Mira

Thanks for the information!

Collapse
 
becry1944 profile image
Catherine R. Longoria

When it comes to mastering Blackjack, having a solid strategy can make a significant difference. Here are a few tips that could help you improve your game:

Understand Basic Strategy: Learn the basic strategy for Blackjack, which involves knowing when to hit, stand, double down, or split based on your hand and the dealerโ€™s upcard. This foundational knowledge helps in making statistically sound decisions.

Card Counting: Although it requires practice and a good memory, card counting can give you an edge. By keeping track of the high and low cards that have been dealt, you can adjust your bets accordingly.

Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your gaming session and stick to it. Effective bankroll management ensures that you play responsibly and avoid losing more than you can afford.

Avoid Insurance Bets: Insurance bets might seem tempting, but they generally donโ€™t offer good value. It's better to stick with your main bet and focus on playing your hand well.

Practice: Many online platforms offer the chance to practice Blackjack for free. Utilize these resources to hone your skills before playing with real money.

Interested in exploring more about gambling strategies and casino games? Check out plinkogambling.org for a variety of resources and insights.

Collapse
 
lucast profile image
Lucas Theodore

Has anyone tried out this JetX at Pin Up Casino? Iโ€™ve been hearing a lot about it and want to know if itโ€™s worth giving a shot. From what I understand, itโ€™s an aviation-themed crash game, but how exactly does it work? Is it more about luck or strategy? Also, howโ€™s the payout system โ€“ is it consistent or does it fluctuate a lot?

Collapse
 
archedbishop profile image
Archedbishop • Edited

Eric, I get the strategy talk, but let's be realโ€”surrendering on a 16 versus a dealerโ€™s 10 only gets you so far. I used to play it safe like that until I found a better angle. I know that statistics show that new UK casino operators may sometimes offer single-deck games with favorable rulesโ€”think 3:2 payouts on blackjack and dealer stands on soft 17. These little advantages make a huge difference without needing to go full Rain Man on counting. Less stress, better odds, more fun.

Collapse
 
mirapogreban profile image
Mira Pogreban

Understanding the fundamentals and employing strategic techniques can significantly enhance your game. Whether it's mastering basic strategy or learning when to double down, these tips provide a solid foundation for success. Additionally, if you're looking to test these strategies in real time, donโ€™t forget to check out the Mostbet link for a great platform to play. It's a fantastic opportunity to practice your skills and enjoy the thrill of the game. Happy playing, and may the cards be ever in your favor!

Some comments may only be visible to logged-in visitors. Sign in to view all comments.