Blackjack: practical guide
Learn the game clearly: rules, step‑by‑step examples and strategy to avoid mistakes.
60‑second summary:
Updated: 2025-11-12 • 6–12 min read
- Try to get closer to 21 than the dealer without going over (bust).
- Face cards are 10; Aces are 1 or 11 (whichever benefits you).
- Your options: hit, stand, double, split, sometimes surrender.
- Dealer rules: typically hits to 16 and stands on 17 (H17/S17 varies).
Beginner — the essentials
Objective Beat the dealer’s total without busting.
Card values 2–10 at face value, J/Q/K=10, A=1 or 11.
Blackjack Ace + 10‑value card = natural 21 (usually pays 3:2).
Intermediate — player options
- Hit / Stand: take a card / stop.
- Double: double bet, take exactly one card.
- Split: split pairs into two hands (rules vary by pair).
- Surrender: forfeit half your bet (if allowed).
Strategy & tips
- Use a basic strategy chart for your table rules (H17/S17, DAS, RSA).
- Never take insurance at low counts; it’s ‑EV for most players.
- Bankroll: bring 30–50 bets; set stop‑loss.
Rules — quick reference
- Dealer draws to 16 and stands on 17 (check local rules).
- Blackjack pays 3:2 (some tables pay 6:5 — avoid).
- Splits/doubles depend on house rules; confirm before playing.
Common mistakes
- Standing on 12 vs dealer 2 or 3 (often a hit in basic strategy).
- Doubling or splitting without checking table rules.
- Chasing losses — stick to your plan.
Glossary
H17 / S17: Dealer hits soft 17 / stands on all 17.
DAS: Double After Split allowed.
RSA: Re‑Split Aces allowed.
Soft / Hard: a hand with Ace counted as 11 / without.
Natural: Ace + 10‑value (Blackjack).
FAQ
Follow basic strategy based on your hand vs dealer up‑card.
Generally no; it’s negative EV unless you count cards accurately.