Blackjack Basics

Learning the basics of blackjack is the most important step in becoming a great player. A lot of the more advanced blackjack strategy will refer back to the basics at times so it’s imperative that you understand the basics. After you learn the basics of blackjack you’ll be ready to play the game. There are only a few moves that you can make in blackjack which keeps everything simple. As long as you make the percentage plays you’re usually going to come out on top in the long-run. Below is a blackjack tips guide on how you should play your certain in the many common situations you’ll find yourself in while playing blackjack.

When Should You Hit?

The most common play in blackjack is hitting and you’re going to hit more times then you do anything else. Depending on the dealer’s up card you should hit on totals from 4-16. Obviously when you have 4-8 you should always hit because there is no chance that you can bust. When you’re sitting with 9-11 you also can’t bust, but you should only hit when the dealer is showing a high up card. When the dealer is showing a lower up card and you have 9-11 you should double down. You should only hit on your higher hands such as 13-16 when the dealer is showing a 7 or better.

When Should You Stand?

Whenever you have a total of 17 or higher you should always stand because the chances of busting are really high. You should also stand when you have 12 or higher and the dealer is showing a really low up card. The reason you want to stand with a marginal hand when the dealer is showing a low card is because the chances of the dealer busting are really high. It’s a lot better to stand with a marginal hand then to take a card and bust because once you bust you have no chance of winning the hand anymore.

When Should You Double Down?

The only possible times you should double down in blackjack is when your hand total is 9-11, but there are still some restrictions. When the dealer is showing an ace you should never double down. When the dealer is showing a 10 you should only double down if you have 11 and the only time you should double down with 9 is when the dealer is showing a 3-6 since the chances of them busting are pretty good.

When Should You Split Pairs?

You should split pairs when the dealer is showing a low up card only. When the dealer is showing an 8 or better you shouldn’t really split your pairs. You should also never split your 10’s and just stand with them since it’s better winning one hand rather then risking it to win two hands. When you have a pair of 5’s you should also double down instead of splitting the pair unless the dealer is showing an ace and then you should just hit.