The Basics of Blackjack Strategy

In blackjack, the objective is to have a higher hand total than the dealer. The value of an Ace is treated as 11 if the hand total is 21 or less, and as one if it is more than 21. If two players have the same hand value, then the outcome of their wagers will not change. The original bet placed by the player becomes a ‘push’ and the dealer returns it. When this occurs, the player’s original bet is returned to them.

Face cards

When you play blackjack, you need to know the value of each card before making a decision on whether to split them or not. Each face card has a different value than a number card, and aces are worth one or eleven points. However, you can change the value of an Ace if you want. In blackjack, an ace and an eight would have a combined value of nine or 19, respectively. The same applies to a pair of tens.

Basic strategy

If you’re a beginner, you’ll probably benefit from reading a few articles on basic blackjack strategy. The most basic strategy for blackjack is to hit 16 against the dealer’s 10. But there are also some advanced strategies you can follow. One such strategy is to hit only after the dealer has hit 10, while another advises against it. Here are some of the most important basics of blackjack strategy. Read on to discover how to make the best use of these tips.

Double down

The rule of double down on blackjack is simple: when you have a hand of ten or higher, you must push chips equal to the initial bet next to the current wager. You may not double down any further, but casinos will often include incentives that encourage players to take risks. Most players double down after they’ve received a hand of eleven or higher, but you can also push a stack of chips directly next to the current wager.

Insurance

In most casino games, you can opt for blackjack insurance. Though many players choose to take it, a skilled player would suggest against doing so. In addition to the cost and risk involved, blackjack insurance has more possible outcomes than breaking even. In other words, insurance is not about salvaging a bad hand but protecting the good one. Blackjack insurance is the basic stand-alone bet that pays odds of 2 to 1. It is bet on the dealer’s second card being a 10 or a face card.

Push

A blackjack push occurs when the dealer has an Ace or blackjack but neither the player nor the dealer has a higher value. In this case, the player loses the bet and the dealer wins. This happens more often in games with six or eight decks of cards, so players should play single-deck blackjack if possible. Single-deck blackjack has fewer chances of pushing. Blackjack pushes can be frustrating, but they also reduce the player’s earnings.