Blackjack is a popular casino game in which players try to beat the dealer by making a hand that is closest to 21. It is a simple game with few rules, but there are many strategies that can be used to increase your chances of winning.
1. Using the Basic Strategy
When playing blackjack, it is important to use a strategy that is designed to reduce the house edge and increase your chances of winning. This can be done by avoiding certain mistakes and learning how to play the odds correctly.
2. The Double Down Rule
In blackjack, players can double their original wager by matching their bet with an additional card, called a “double down.” However, this move is risky and should only be made if you have a hand value of 9 or 10 or if the dealer has a low upcard.
3. The Insurance Bet
If the dealer’s upcard is an ace, they can offer players the option to place a side bet of up to half of their original wager. If the dealer has a blackjack, this bet pays 2 to 1 and can help you win big.
4. The Split Pairs rule
If you’re dealt two cards that are the same value, you can ask the dealer for another card. This is often called a “split” and can be done up to three times, with the exception of Aces.
5. The Double Down Feature
In some games, you can double your wager by matching your bet with an extra card and then hitting again. This move is a good strategy for hands of 10 or 11 and can pay out dividends on many hands that contain an ace and two to seven cards.
6. The Surrender Feature
If you don’t like the way your current hand is going or want to see what the dealer will get, you can surrender. This will give you half of your initial wager back and prevent you from busting.
7. The Statistically Worst Hand
If your two cards are the same value, the best way to improve your chances of winning is to split them. This will increase your chance of winning a blackjack or a hand with a high value card.
8. The Statistically Worst Hand (Split)
If your hand is a value of 16 and you have a low upcard, it’s better to split than stand with that hand. This will also double your chances of landing a hand with at least one 10-value card, which is a very good thing in blackjack.
9. The Double Down Feature
If you have a hand value of 7 or 8 and the dealer has a high upcard, it’s worth doubling your bet. This can pay out a lot of money in some situations, but you should always play your cards carefully.
10. The Insurance Bet
If you’re dealt an ace and the dealer’s upcard is a ten-value card, you can ask the dealer for a side bet of up to half your original wager. This is called insurance and can be a good option in some circumstances, but it’s a poor choice for most players.