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Blackjack Strategy
Optimal blackjack strategy has been perfected over the years through the use of math and computer simulations. The easiest way to get started with blackjack strategy is to use a strategy card that lists the best decisions possible in each situation. Proper strategy can eventually be memorized, but the best way to start is with a chart. Some casinos will even provide these charts on plastic cards to players free of charge and allow them to use these cards at the tables.
Casinos don't mind the use of strategy cards because blackjack can't be beaten over the long run without card counting. The good thing is that a solid strategy can reduce the house edge by a fair margin. And the lower the house edge is, the longer you can enjoy your time at the blackjack tables.
Strategy Charts
Strategy charts may look confusing at first but they're actually pretty straightforward. The vertical row on the left represents the player's hand, the horizontal row across the top represents the dealer's hand and the boxes in the middle specify the best action to take for each hand. Hard totals are hand totals that do not include an ace in them. Soft totals are hands that include an ace.
This chart is designed for blackjack games that use 4-8 decks, in which the dealer stands on soft 17 and double after splitting is permitted.
H = Hit
S = Stand
D = Double
P = Split
P* = Hit if doubling after splitting is not allowed
After you get the hang of these charts, the key to using them correctly is having the discipline to stick with them. Anything can happen during the short term in blackjack but these charts are mathematically proven to work over the long run.
Blackjack Card Counting
The above strategies work to reduce the house edge, but card counting can swing the advantage to the player. Successful card counting is the only way blackjack players can actually gain an edge over the casino.
Contrary to popular belief, card counting doesn't require a genius level IQ or photographic memory. In fact, it's not a very difficult process at all. The hardest part of it is keeping up with the count while playing in the noisy atmosphere of a casino. On top of that, additional difficulties stem from casino measures aimed to prevent card counting.
Casinos can't press charges against card counters since it's not illegal to count cards. In some states, casinos aren't even allowed to kick card counters out of the casino. What these casinos do instead is implement anti card counting measures such as having intimidating pit bosses stare at suspected card counters or place "guests" next to the card counter whose job it is to distract them by initiating conversation.
Card counting works by keeping track of when the deck is rich in aces and tens. When the deck is rich in these cards, it's more likely for players to get blackjacks and receive the blackjack bonus. During these times, card counters increase their bet sizes to take advantage of the increased likelihood of getting blackjacks. When the deck is low in tens and aces, card counters reduce the sizes of their bets.
One simple method of card counting starts the score out at zero. After that, every time the card counter sees a card between 2-6, he adds 1 to the total score. Every time he sees a ten or face card, he subtracts 1 from the total score. The cards 7, 8 and 9 are given a value of 0 and ignored.
The higher the count, the more the player should bet. When the count is 0 or negative, the card counter tries to bet as little as possible. The difficult part here is disguising these bets so that it's not obvious to the casino that the player is counting cards. Casinos have technology in place that can track the current count and they will notice when players only make large bets when the count is positive.
Card counting can be a profitable activity but it's not an easy way to make a living. The player's edge is so small that it requires a massive bankroll to withstand the variance that comes with such a small edge. Additional stress is heaped on card counters by casinos, making it a tough way to earn a living.
If that hasn't scared you off yet and you still want to try your hand at card counting, I suggest you start out by practicing in your home. You will want to learn how to keep a count, play perfect strategy and maintain your concentration in noisy environments. After you get the technique down correctly, you'll want to practice looking like someone who's not counting cards. Eventually it will all come natural and you too can make money playing cards.
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