Follow these free basic blackjack tips so you don’t blow your money at the blackjack table.
You’re probably not great at counting cards; however, blackjack offers relatively good odds for players who understand a few simple rules.
We grouped some basic blackjack tips to find out how rookies can win at the table.
Blackjack Tip 1: Play only games that pay 3 to 2
Playing only on tables where a blackjack pays 3-2 and where the dealer stands on soft 17. Check if players can double down on any two cards, doubling after the pair splitting is allowed.
Fewer decks are better than more decks. A single deck game offers better odds for a player.
Blackjack Tip 2: Learn Blackjack Basic Strategy
Sometimes basic strategy cards are offered by casinos. You can refer to them to be sure you always make the correct decision on every hand dealt to you.
Remembering the right way to hit, stand, split and double down is a must. Memorizing these rules, you’ll cut the house edge from 1 to 2 per cent to 0.5 per cent. Check the basic strategy charts
Points to take down
- If your hand is 12-16 or if the dealer has 2-6, stand.
- If your hand is 12-16 or if the dealer has 7-Ace, hit
- Always split Aces and 8s
- Double 11 versus the dealer’s 2-10
- Hit or double Aces-6
Blackjack Tip 3: Avoid Insurance
Unless you’re counting cards, don’t play with insurance. It is another new bet on whether the dealer has a blackjack.
The house has approximately a 6 per cent advantage over the player with an insurance bet. If your hand is a blackjack, you will only win your original bet. If the dealer has a blackjack, it’s a push—no win, no lose.
Blackjack Tip 4: Stay in control
Don’t increase your bets because you feel you are going to win. Regardless of what happened during your previous playing sessions, stay calm and observe the cards in front of you. Check other player cards, if any.
Don’t get burned. Be careful with your money. Try the above tips by playing for free at these blackjack games.
Blackjack Tip 5: Slow on Booze
Drinks might be free when you play in some casinos, but too much booze will dull your senses and increase your chances of making mistakes. Stay focused on playing every hand perfectly. Casino hospitality is meant to keep you at the table, you are more valuable at the table than at the bar.