Strategy guide
Blackjack decoded.
Learn basic strategy to cut the house edge to about 0.5%, and the table rules that push it back up.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Best for
- Strategic thinkers
- Key tips
- 5
- 01
Understanding the basics
Blackjack is a card game where the goal is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over. You play against the dealer, not other players. Face cards are worth 10, aces are worth 1 or 11, and all other cards are face value.
- 02
Basic strategy
Basic strategy is a mathematically optimal way to play every hand based on your cards and the dealer's upcard. Following basic strategy reduces the house edge to as low as 0.5%. Always hit on 8 or below, stand on 17+, and double down on 11 against dealer 2-10.
- 03
Card counting
Card counting is a strategy used to determine whether the next hand is likely to give an advantage to the player or the dealer. The Hi-Lo system assigns +1 to cards 2-6, 0 to 7-9, and -1 to 10-Ace. A high running count favors the player.
- 04
Common mistakes to avoid
Never take insurance: it's a sucker bet with a house edge over 7%. Don't play 6:5 blackjack tables; always look for 3:2 payouts. Never split 10s, and always split Aces and 8s.