Card Counting in Blackjack

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games and it’s easy to see why. Its rules are straightforward and its simple strategy can give you a significant edge over the dealer. Many amateur players believe that blackjack is an unbeatable game of chance, but this is not necessarily true. There are several methods which, when used correctly, can provide you with a substantial advantage over the dealer and increase your bankroll. One such method is card counting. This is a technique which involves keeping track of the cards dealt to each player and the dealer and can help you determine when it is advantageous to hit, stand, or double down.

The first step in playing blackjack is to place your bet. Each player will receive two cards face up. Once all bets are placed, the dealer will reveal their own face-down card and players will decide whether to “hit” (ask for more cards) or “stand” (keep their current hand). The player with the highest score wins. If the player has a blackjack, they are paid 3 to 2 by the dealer. If both the player and dealer have the same score, it is considered a push and nobody wins.

Before the dealer plays their cards, they will ask the players if they would like to take insurance. This bet is usually half the original bet amount and pays 2-1 if the dealer has blackjack. The dealer will then look at their hole card and, if they have a ten underneath, will pay off the players’ insurance bets and continue to play their hand.

If the dealer does not have a ten, they will sweep their own bet and then deal each player one more card. If the dealer has a ten, they will not pay off players’ insurance bets and they will not be forced to beat their own hand. If the dealer has a blackjack, they will pay off their own bet and any players who had blackjack will win their own bets (2 to 1). Some casinos now allow players to make 6 to 5 payouts on blackjacks, which makes this bet much worse for the player. This is not allowed in all casinos, so always check the rules on the felt before placing your bets.