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How to Win at Blackjack
Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games and, despite its reputation as a game of pure chance, there are a number of strategic moves that can be made to improve your chances of winning. Some players have even managed to develop a mathematically correct strategy for the game, reducing its house edge to sub-1% levels.
Before you begin playing blackjack, it’s essential to understand the rules of the game. You and the dealer each receive two cards, and you must decide whether to hit (request another card) or stand based on the value of your initial hand. You can also choose to split, double down, or surrender if the game supports these options.
Hit if your cards add up to 11 or less – it is the only time when you can improve your hand by hitting, and you are guaranteed not to bust. This will give you a better chance of beating the dealer’s 21 than standing. However, it’s important to note that if you hit when the dealer shows a 7, there is a high risk of losing your bet.
Double down if your initial cards have a value of 10 or more, or when the dealer has a low card showing. This increases your odds of winning the hand and can help you make a large profit. It’s important to remember, however, that if you double down with a pair of 8s or aces, the second hand will have a lower value than the original.
Stand if you have a hard 17 or higher – it is generally best to stand on a hard hand, especially if the dealer has an Ace or 10. However, if you have a 14 and the dealer has a 10, then it may be more advantageous to hit.
Always stay in control of your money – this is a crucial rule for any casino game. Ensure that you set a losing and winning limit before the game begins, and stop playing when you reach either. This will not only help you to avoid gambling addiction, but it will also prevent you from losing too much money in a short period of time.
Don’t fall for the temptation to increase your betting stake after every loss, also known as the Martingale system. This can quickly burn your bankroll, and the odds don’t care if you are on a losing streak or on a winning one. If you stick to a solid strategy and play conservatively, you will be able to keep your losses to a minimum and end each gaming session in the black. This is the key to a successful blackjack strategy. If you want to take your game to the next level, consider trying some blackjack variations that include side bets. These are a great way to get more out of your blackjack experience, and you can start as low as $1 per hand with DraftKings.