Increase Your Odds in Blackjack with Basic Strategy

Ever since the movie 21 came out, card counting in casinos has been all the rage among blackjack players. But here’s the downside to card counting: it’s nearly impossible to pull off! And as heartbreaking as this may be, there is some solace in that you can increase your odds in blackjack with basic strategy.

 In fact, the house only has a 0.5% edge provided you make all of the right moves. And when you factor in the bonuses that you can earn at online casinos, you might even be able to make money! But first thing’s first, and you need to learn basic strategy before any of these dreams come true.

 Here is some basic blackjack strategy to keep in mind at the tables:

•  Hit until you reach at least 13 when the dealer’s upcard is 2 or 3.
•  Hit until you reach at least 12 when the dealer’s upcard is 4 through 6.
•  Hit until you reach at least 17 when the dealer’s upcard is 7 through ace.

 This much blackjack strategy will lower the house edge drastically. However, you also have to know when to split and double down as well. The main thing you need to remember when splitting is that you should only split 8’s and aces. Doubling down is a little more complicated, and here’s what you need to remember with that:

 If you have 9, double down when the dealer’s upcard is 3-6

If you have 10, double down when the dealer’s upcard  is 2-9

If you have 11, double down when the dealer’s upcard is 2-10

Of course, there is more intricate blackjack strategy, so make sure to look at a strategy chart before you play.