How to Win at Blackjack
You’ve probably already heard of Basic Strategy and Side bets. But have you ever wondered how to win at Blackjack? What about the minimum and maximum bets? Do you know that Aces are worth one or eleven? These are all questions that you’ll want to answer if you plan on playing the game for real money.
Basic strategy
Basic blackjack strategy is a set of decisions that players should make when considering the dealer’s hand. Many new players make the mistake of playing based on intuition or fear, rather than the best mathematical decision. By using basic strategy, players can increase their odds of winning.
Side bets
There are several different blackjack side bets you can make. Some of these bets pay out many times your stake, and others pay out less. In general, the house edge is a bit higher for side bets. As such, you should avoid them if you want to maximize your profit. Instead, focus on basic strategy and card counting.
Minimum and maximum bets
A player’s initial bet determines how much they can risk per hand. Typically, players can put as little as $0.10 per hand or as much as $2500 per hand. While these limits are only applicable to the initial bet, there are still options for players to double down, split, or insurance. The table will show the minimum and maximum bets for each hand, starting from the rightmost one.
Aces count as either 1 or 11
Aces can count as either 1 or 11 in blackjack, depending on the player’s preference. Players who are dealt an ace are encouraged to hit until they have a winning hand, but they can also stand on eight or nine. The goal is to make a hand of nine cards of the same value, and not more than ten.
Hitting on a soft 17
Hitting on a soft 17 in blackjack can be a tricky situation for new players. If your hand is composed of multiple cards that add up to seventeen, you can opt to hit on a soft 17 to avoid busting. If you hit on a soft 17 hand, you can draw a higher card than the dealer’s, and avoid busting the hand.
Standing on an Ace
When playing blackjack, knowing when to hit and when to stand on an Ace is crucial. In blackjack, the goal is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over, so knowing when to hit and when to stand on an Ace is a key aspect of the game. Standing on an Ace may be the best strategy for a player when they are in danger of busting, but if they have a low hand and are facing an opponent with an Ace, then hitting could be the best course of action.
Splitting two 8’s
When faced with two eights, a common strategy is to split them. However, some players are unsure if this is the best strategy. Depending on the dealer’s upcard, splitting two eights can cost you money.
Doubling down
Doubling down in blackjack is a great way to boost your odds of winning a hand. This strategy requires the player to receive two identical cards. The dealer must give you the same signal when you decide to double down. This is a good option for players who have a pair of tens or higher, or a weak dealer.