The Basics
The objective of blackjack is for a Player to come as close to 21 without going over, while still having a higher total than the Dealer. Prior to receiving any cards, the Player must place a bet. Once the bet is made, the Player is dealt two cards face up. The Dealer is also dealt two cards. If the total value of the Player’s cards is closer to 21 than the Dealer, the Player wins as much as was bet. The Player also wins if the Dealer goes over 21 and the Player has not busted.
If the Player’s total goes over 21, the Player loses. Simple enough right? Remember, cards 2 to 10 are face value. The cards with the pictures on it are worth 10. And the cards with an Ace are with 1 or 11, whichever one you need more.
When to Hit
Knowing when to hit is usually what will prevent you from busting out.
The time you mostly want to hit is when you have a soft 13 through 17 whenever the dealer is showing 7 or higher. A soft hand is when you have an Ace along with another card — which can substitute for 1 or 11 — preventing you from busting.
Doubling Down
If you learn when to double down you’ll learn how to double your money.
There are certain times that are statistically in your favor when you need to make it happen:
If your cards equal nine double down if the dealer has 3 thru 6. If your cards equal ten double down if the dealer has 2 thru 9. If you have an Ace and a 2 or 3 double down if the dealer has 5 or 6. If you have an Ace and a 4 or 5 double down if the dealer has 4 thru 6. If you have an Ace and a 6 double down if the dealer has 3 thru 6. If the dealer doesn’t have the cards listed above, hit.
Taking a Stand
The general rule in Blackjack is hit when your cards are low and stand when they are at 17 to 20. But there are more obvious opportunities than that. Players should stand on 12 when the dealer’s up card is 4 thru 6, and stand on 13 to 16 if the dealer’s up card is 2 thru 6. We know anything less than a 17 will have you itching to tap your finger on the table (or mouse) but resist the urge, it’ll pay off. If these opportunities don’t arise hit like Chuck Liddell.
Hopefully, these tips will have you ready to dominate the blackjack scene.