Blackjack is a card game that can be played with one or more decks of cards. Each card has a value of either one or 11 (face cards and aces) or a number (number cards). The object of the game is to build a hand that totals closer to 21 than the dealer’s. If you have a better hand than the dealer, you win and are paid an amount equal to your original wager. If your hand is lower than the dealer’s, you lose and your bet remains on the table. If your hand has a value of 21 or more, it’s a “blackjack” and is paid 6 to 5 or 3 to 2.
Before you play blackjack, make sure you have a comfortable place for everyone to sit. Then, put the bets in their appropriate spots and deal two cards to each player. Once everyone has their cards, they decide whether to hit (request additional cards) or stand. The dealer then draws cards for their hand based on predetermined rules. If the dealer has a face card of a value other than 10, she must draw another card. If the dealer busts, all players who have not stood or hit lose their bets. If the dealer has a blackjack, she pays all winning bets and collects any insurance wagers.
The house edge in blackjack is nil, which means that if you follow the optimal strategy, you can’t lose. However, there is a lot to remember and it takes time to master. Start by learning basic strategy and then move on to perfect strategy. You may find that the extra knowledge gives you an edge over novice players.
There are many ways to increase your chances of winning at blackjack, but the best way is to practice card counting. This is a method of tracking the number of cards that have been dealt and the number of cards that have been hidden in the decks. Keeping track of this information allows you to predict the next dealing and alter your bet accordingly.
To learn how to count cards, start with a single deck and practice the running count. Add up the values of each card as they are dealt and subtract when necessary. After a while, you will be able to keep your running total without thinking about it. You can also practice the true count, which is a more accurate measurement of how much of an advantage you have.
There are times when it is advantageous to double down, but you must be careful. Use the blackjack strategy chart to determine when it is appropriate. For example, if you have an Ace and a 10 or higher, you have a “hard” hand and should refer to the top of the chart. On the other hand, if you have a soft hand, you should refer to the bottom of the chart. It’s best to always split 8s and Aces, as this will improve your odds of making a high-value hand.