On Dec. 1, I talked about card counting. Today, for beginners in particular, I’d like to go over some widely accepted tips that just might increase your chances to win at blackjack.

As always, I’ll begin by saying that I am NOT an expert card counter. But I do love the game and I do practice using these tips. For the most part they work. Some of this is simplistic. I recommend buying a good book on blackjack and then memorizing the charts that advise you when to hit or stand vs. the dealer’s up card.

But in the end, although these tips give you a SLIGHT edge, it’s all about the draw. The cards you get.

So, that said, let’s start; there will be more next week.

If the dealer’s up card is anything but an Ace, doubling with 11.

If the dealer’s up card is 3 to 6, double down with 9.

In picking a table, consider rules variations that could increase your advantage, like the dealer having to stand on soft 17, or doubling down on any two cards.

Unless you’re counting cards or you have a gut feelingthat the dealer has blackjack, never take insurance when offered.

You shouldn’t 10’s or 5’s, but always split Aces

Split 7’s and 8’s against an equal or lower dealer’s car

Split 2’s or 3’s against a 4, 5, or 6

The three Fs: never split face cards, Four’s and Five’s

Take heed: stand on hard 13-16 if the dealer’s up card is 6 or lower, but hit if the dealer’s showing card is 7-Ace.

Similarly, you should stand on 17 or higher if the dealer is showing 7 or lower. And always stand on 12 or higher if the dealer’s up card is 4-6.

Hit until you have at least 17 and the dealer 10.

Hit a 12 if the dealer is showing 2, 3, 7 or higher.

More to come in the next posting.

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