How to Play the Game of Blackjack
Blackjack is a casino game that pits players against a dealer. Each player is dealt two cards and must decide whether to hit (request additional cards) or stand (stop drawing cards). A player’s hand must total closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand to win. If the dealer has a blackjack, the hand ends in a tie (called a “push”). If the player’s initial two cards total 21, the hand is a “blackjack” and is paid out at odds of 6 to 5 or 3 to 2 depending on the variation of blackjack being played.
Some blackjack games offer side bets, such as insurance. A player may place a side bet in addition to their blackjack wager, but the controlling blackjack wager must always remain equal or larger than any other side bet. In addition, some blackjack games require that any blackjack side bet wagers be placed in a special area on the table alongside the main wager.
Taking advantage of the house edge in blackjack is possible if you understand the rules of the game and use proven tips and strategies for playing. The best way to learn the rules of blackjack is to read a good book such as Stanford Wong’s Professional Blackjack or Don Schlesinger’s Blackjack Attack.
A blackjack strategy chart is also helpful for players who want to increase their chances of winning at the game. These charts provide players with information on when it is advantageous to hit, double down and stand. A chart can help players avoid costly mistakes that will decrease their chances of beating the dealer.
The first step in learning the game of blackjack is selecting a seat at a table. Typically, blackjack tables allow for five to seven players and there is often an empty spot ready to be claimed (unless a player has a stack of chips or a jacket that is holding the seat for them).
Once you are seated, you must place your bet in the box for your chosen amount of money. Generally, the minimum bet is $5. However, some casinos have lower minimum bets and some have maximum bet limits that you cannot exceed.
After placing your bet, the dealer will deal you and the other players two cards each. Then, you must decide whether to hit (ask for more cards) or stand (stop drawing cards). If you have a hand that is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win and are paid an amount equal to your original bet. If your hand is less than the dealer’s, you lose. Ties are called a push and bets are returned without adjustment. Blackjack is a fast-paced game and you must be alert. If you have a hand that is close to 21 and the dealer has an ace, you should take insurance. This bet pays 2-1 if the dealer has blackjack and will save you from losing your entire hand. However, if the dealer does not have blackjack and you do not take insurance, you will be out the full amount of your original bet.