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Blackjack | Strategy

Basic strategy is the term used to denote the correct play for each blackjack hand possibility. The blackjack basic strategy was developed by four mathematicians in the 1950's. The basic strategy was refined when thousands of computer simulations were run against the theory.

Basic blackjack strategy is designed to win more of your good hands and lose less of your bad hands. When using the strategy your descisions for hitting, standing, splitting, doubling, etc. are all made for you. Many people call the blackjack basic strategy "Perfect Blackjack" because there is not a better way to play the game! (Unless, of course, you can count cards.)

Now, when you are at a live blackjack table and you are not sure what you should do in order to follow the basic strategy, we recommend that you ask the dealer. The dealers want to help you out so that they get more tips when you win. So, why not ask for the help?

Most blackjack players do not know blackjack basic strategy. Most will "claim" that they do, however, when tested, you will see that they fail. Here is a test for you. How well do you know your basic blackjack strategy? Do not scroll down the page, write your answers on a piece of paper (no cheating):

1. Your Hand: 12
   Dealer Shows: 3
   Do you hit or stand?

2. Your Hand: 8
   Dealer Shows: 6
   Do you hit or double down?

3. Your Hand: 16
   Dealer Shows: 7
   Do you hit or stand?

4. Your Hand: 16
   Dealer Shows: 6
   Do you hit or stand?

5. Your Hand: Two Nines
   Dealer Shows: 7
   Do you stand or split?

1. Hit
2. Hit
3. Hit
4. Stand
5. Stand

So, did you know your basic strategy as well as you thought you did? If you did not, don't worry, when you play online blackjack you can play directly from your own printed basic strategy blackjack card. The online casinos have no way of telling if you are using a "cheat sheet" or not. You will win more and play for much longer. Good Luck!

More Strategies for Black Jack

It doesn't matter if you just started playing blackjack or if you have been playing it for years. It is always wise to refer to so called blackjack charts to increase your chances of winning. These charts tell you which decision to make for every possible hand. Every strategy chart contains three separate charts. One for a Hard Total, one for a Soft Total and one for a Split.

The following charts will tell you exactly what to do when you are playing. Use the charts and match the hand you are currently holding. There are many different charts available but these three are the most common.

Hard Total Chart

H=Hit, S=Stand, D=Double

Soft Hand Total

H=Hit, S=Stand, D=Double

Split Total

H=Hit, S=Stand, D=Double, SP=Split

It is recommended you always use these charts unless you know them by heart or you are a card counting master.