Online Blackjack Tips
The game of blackjack favors the dealer; if both you and the
dealer bust you lose. Still many people win money at the 21
tables, and there are as many experts on the subject as there
are people willing to listen to them. If you want to prolong
your ride at the table, the following elementary rules may prove
useful.
1. Find a table whose minimum is no more than 5% of you total
stash. In picking a table, consider rule variations that help
the player like the option of doubling down on any two cards, or
the dealer having to stand on soft 17. Even if you don't
completely understand them, these rule variations can work to
your advantage.
2. Start with the basics: Since the dealer has to hit on any
hand 16 or lower, you'll never win with less than 17 unless the
dealer busts. Take a hit on any hand below 17 when the dealer
shows ace, K, Q, J, 10, 9, or 8, cards that are unlikely to make
the dealer bust. Stand on any hand above 11 when the dealer
shows a 4,5, or 6, cards that will lead then dealer to bust more
than 40% of the time.
3."Doubling down" involves doubling your bet and receiving one
additional card when your suspect strongly that you will beat
the dealer by doing so. This is the player's chief advantage, so
don't ignore this option. Doubling with 10 against a 9 or lower
and with any hand of 11. Rules permitting, double with 9, or
with "soft" hands (hands that count an ace as 11) of 13-17
against a 4, 5, or 6.
4. If you are dealt two cards of the same value, you may "split"
them, doubling your bet and playing two hands. Never split 10's
or 5's. Always split 8's or 7's against a dealer's card of equal
or lower value. Always split 2's or 3's against a 4, 5, or 6.
Always split aces. Never split face cards, 10's, or 5's.
5. Tip the dealer, as they are not unionized, work for lousy
wages, and depend on your generosity. Unless you're winning
serious stakes, a dollar chip every twenty or so hands is
generally appropriate. If you want to make sure the dealer has
your best interests at heart, place the tip right in front of
your wagering circle, essentially turning it into a side bet on
your hand. If you win, the dealer's tip doubles. |
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