Blackjack is a game of chance that relies heavily on luck, but it can also be a game of skill. By following certain strategies, players can increase their chances of winning and lower the house edge to near-zero levels.
A basic blackjack strategy chart will help you decide when to hit and stand based on the value of your cards and the dealer’s up card. These charts are a useful tool for new players and those who want to improve their blackjack play. Using one will help you avoid making common mistakes, such as increasing your bet size after a loss on the assumption that you’re due for a win. This type of progressive betting strategy can quickly drain your bankroll and lead to large losses.
It’s important to remember that you are playing against the dealer and not the other players at the table. Some players get caught up in what the other people are doing at the table and it can distract them from what’s best for their own hand. This can also make them less likely to follow basic strategy.
Another mistake that many players make is to place side bets, such as the insurance bet or the ten-to-one bet. These bets generally have poor odds and should be avoided. Doubling down on losses is also a bad idea. It can result in large losses if you lose multiple hands in a row. Keeping your bet size consistent is the best way to maximize your winnings.
If you are dealt two matching cards, you can choose to split them into separate hands by placing a second bet equal to your original bet on the second hand. Then, you will play each hand independently. This is called splitting pairs and can give you an advantage in some blackjack games.
Some blackjack games allow players to double their bets after receiving their first two cards. This is a great option when the cards add up to 11 or less. If you have a pair of tens, for example, it’s usually better to split them than to hit. However, you should always consider the dealer’s up card when deciding whether to split.
Doubling down should only be done if the dealer has an up card that is weak, such as a five or six. Otherwise, it’s not worth the risk of busting your hand. This blackjack strategy is more effective in single-deck games than it is in multi-deck ones, as the odds of getting a 10 are higher.
The dealer’s hand is compared to yours and if your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win and are paid one time your initial wager. If your hand is equal to the dealer’s, it’s considered a tie and you don’t get paid on your bet. You may be able to make a side bet on the outcome of your hand, but these bets often have a high house edge and should be avoided.