Although blackjack is a relatively simple game to learn with only a few basic rules, developing a winning strategy is key to your success as a gambler at the game in the long run. If you are looking to boost your income at the table consider these five basic tips to help give you an edge over the House next time you find yourself in a game:
Split your As and 8s
Being dealt two aces or two eights can be the worst possible hand you could have in most circumstances – with two aces totaling a mere 12 or 2 and two eights equaling an even more undesirable 16 trying to stick in the game with either hand is foolish at best. Instead, splitting them into two separate hands to play can be one of the best moves to make and can offer you the chance at two excellent hands against the dealer – especially if you expect the dealer to end up with a low hand out of the round that will allow you to easily double-up your money in no time.
Double-down on 10s and 11s
The ability to double-down is one of the greatest assets in any blackjack player’s arsenal. When holding a 10 or 11 this is particularly effective as you not only have a chance at landing a 20 or 21 but also the high possibility of coming out of the round with double the winnings you would have realized otherwise with a single hit – a big bonus for any player no matter what version of blackjack you may be enjoying.
Stay on a dealer’s 3 through 6
If a deal is ever showing a 3 through 6 this is one of the best chances for you to minimize your own personal risk and simply stand your ground, even if you are only holding a 12 yourself. The reason for this is that with a 3 through 6 showing on the face-up card a dealer is likely to go bust roughly 40% of the time, meaning that the chances of you successfully winning by doing nothing are high enough it’s not worth risking yourself busting out on a bad move.
Never split your 10s
With two 10s or face cards in your hand, you will be holding the second most powerful combination in the game (right behind a full 21, of course). Even if you feel that by splitting your cards you will have a good chance at beating the dealer the odds in your favor are not worth it and it would be better to simply keep them together no matter what you may feel at the time.
Watch the table closely
Finally, pay close attention to all of the cards being dealt around you. If you see a large number of face cards coming out earlier on this is generally a good indication that a low card will come your way if you are at the end of the line, while conversely the same is also true. Use this to your advantage in determining your plays in order to help make the right move at the right time and maximize your potential earnings.
