Blackjack is one of the most popular table games and despite all the different variants, the basic objective of the game remains, beating the dealer by getting as close to 21 points without going bust. This can happen in three ways: • Your first two cards are a blackjack. • The dealer’s cards exceed 21 points. • Your hand beats that of the dealer without busting. This seems a very simple game to master but to improve your chances of winning regularly, it is prudent to learn basic strategies.

Start with the Basics

The basic blackjack strategy is geared towards lowering your risk, by exercising five basic choices when playing blackjack namely: • Surrender • Hit • Stand • Split your hand • Double down with another of equal value bet. The strategy is based upon the relationship between the cards in the player’s hand, the face-up card of the dealer on the table and the cards still available in the pack. Constantly implementing the basic strategy while playing will reduce the risk of losing over a period of time and is fundamental to the most sophisticated strategies that experienced players employ.

Blackjack tables

The use of blackjack statistical tables will assist players to make decisions in accordance with the basic strategy. The tables recommend action based on possible outcomes considering the cards in the player’s hand and the face-up card of the dealer. Players memorise the tables and take decisions instinctively.

Counting cards

Counting cards are when the player keeps track of the cards on the table and the ones still available in the pack. This impacts on the implementation of the basic strategy and the decisions to be taken when considering possible outcomes and bets to be made. To fully understand and implement a basic blackjack strategy takes time and practice and it is advisable to visit reputable blackjack websites and use features like demo-play to improve your skills as a player.