Basic blackjack rules
Blackjack aims to beat the dealer without going over 21. Your decision on hitting, standing, doubling, or splitting depends on your hand value and the dealer's upcard. A solid betting strategy starts with understanding these rules and how outcomes are affected by card distribution.
Numbered cards count as their face value. Face cards count ten. Ace can count as one or eleven.
Your betting strategy starts with a fixed bankroll and awareness of table limits. Flat betting keeps risk steady and helps you endure long sessions. Always adapt only within your predefined budget and goals.
Optimal betting scales
Choose a betting unit that fits your bankroll and the table limits. A common approach is flat betting, wagering the same amount each hand. This minimizes variance and helps you stay disciplined during swings.
Progressive strategies can accelerate gains after wins but increase risk after losses. Use a conservative scale, increasing only after favorable outcomes and with preplanned caps. Set stop rules to prevent large drawdowns and protect your bankroll.
Track results and adjust unit size as your bankroll grows or shrinks. Always respect casino rules, pace, and personal limits to maintain control. This approach supports responsible gambling while pursuing steady improvement.
Draws and stand decisions
Hard totals require careful timing against the dealer's upcard. With hard totals of 12 through 16 you typically stand on weak upcards and hit on strong ones. The probability of busting increases with each additional card.
Soft totals offer flexibility because the Ace can count as 11. You can double down or hit depending on the dealer's upcard. Soft 17 is a common turning point where basic strategies may advise doubling or hitting.
Doubling down and splitting are powerful tools when used correctly. Double on hard 9, 10, or 11 against favorable upcards when allowed. Split pairs such as Aces and eights are usually recommended.