Blackjack, also called Twenty-One, is a popular casino game that combines a bit of chance with some strategic thinking. It’s thrilling to go head-to-head with the dealer, and with a basic understanding of strategy, you can improve your chances of winning at blackjack.
This guide is perfect for beginners who want to learn the ropes of blackjack and master some winning strategies. Here’s what we’ll cover:
- The Basics of Playing Blackjack: We’ll break down the essential elements of the game, from card values to the goal of getting “closer to 21” than the dealer.
- Understanding Your Hand: Learn the value of your cards and how to decide whether to “hit” (take another card) or “stand” (keep your current hand).
- Simple Blackjack Strategy: Discover a handy guide that tells you what move to make based on the value of your cards and the dealer’s up card (the one they show face-up).
- Bonus Tips for Beginners: We’ll share some extra blackjack etiquette and strategies to help you feel confident at the table.
Ready to deal yourself a winning hand? This is what you need to know
The Basics of Playing Blackjack:
Blackjack uses a deck (or sometimes multiple decks) of standard playing cards. Aces can be worth 1 or 11, face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth 10, and numbered cards are worth their pip value.
The goal of blackjack is to get a hand closer to 21 than the dealer without going over (busting). You play against the dealer, not other players.
Understanding Your Hand:
The value of your hand is simply the sum of your cards. Here’s how to decide your next move:
- Hit: If your hand value is low (usually under 16), you’ll want to take another card (hit) in hopes of getting closer to 21.
- Stand: If your hand value is good (between 17 and 21), you should stay put (stand) and avoid the risk of going bust.
Simple Blackjack Strategy:
This chart is a great guide to tell you whether to hit or stand based on your cards and the dealer’s up card. Remember, this is a basic strategy and can be adjusted based on the specific game rules and number of decks used.
| Your Hand Value | Dealer’s Up Card (2-6) | Dealer’s Up Card (7-Ace) |
| 8-16 | Hit | Hit |
| 17-21 | Stand | Stand |
| Pair of 8s | Split | Hit |
| Pair of Aces | Split | Hit or Double Down |
Bonus Tips for Beginners:
- Learn proper casino etiquette: Ask the dealer questions before the game starts, and be polite to everyone at the table.
- Set a budget and stick to it: Blackjack can be fun, but gamble responsibly. Decide how much you’re comfortable spending and walk away when you reach your limit.
- Practice makes perfect: There are many free online blackjack games where you can practice your strategy before playing for real money.
With this knowledge, you’re well on your way to becoming a confident blackjack player. Remember, blackjack involves some luck, but by understanding the game and using basic strategy, you can increase your chances of winning and have a more enjoyable experience at the casino!
