Blackjack has a reputation as an uncrackable game that requires a lot of time and math to master. But many novices don’t realize that learning basic strategy and card counting is much easier than they might think. In fact, a little preparation and practice can dramatically improve your win rate at the table.
There are a lot of things to learn about blackjack, but it’s important to remember that your goal is to beat the dealer. The best way to do this is by getting your hand total higher than the dealer’s without going over 21. A hand with more than 21 points is a bust and will lose to the dealer.
The dealer’s job is to keep the table running smoothly and efficiently. They must be able to pay out winning bets promptly and accurately, and deal with any misunderstandings or disputes at the table. In addition, the dealers must be alert to any attempts by players or other casino employees to cheat or defraud them in any way.
Blackjack dealers must also know the rules of each game they are dealing. This includes the rules for surrendering, splitting, doubling and hitting. The dealer must also be able to explain these rules in a clear and concise manner to the players. This is known as active listening, and it’s an important skill for a casino employee to possess. Dealers listen to the customers’ thoughts and respond with nonverbal cues, such as nodding or paraphrasing what was said, to show they are fully engaged in the conversation.
In addition to their knowledge of the rules, blackjack dealers must also be able to read and write. This is because they are often required to prepare shift reports and submit them to their supervisors after every shift. This report is used to determine whether the dealer’s performance has been satisfactory and may also be used as a reference in future training sessions.
Another part of the dealer’s job is interpreting the rules of each blackjack game. This can be difficult, as many rules vary from one casino to the next. For example, some casinos use a single deck of cards while others use multiple. In addition, some casinos remove the ten-value cards from the deck, which can dramatically alter the count. This makes the game more difficult for card counters to play.
While it isn’t as common as poker, blackjack has a number of side bets that are offered on the table. These bets include insurance, a side bet on the dealer’s up-card and more. While these bets can be fun to make, they should be avoided by serious blackjack players. These bets are not worth the extra money and will only increase your house edge.