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Blackjack Tips: Basics to Keep in Mind While Playing. Try Card Counting, for Instance

Those of you who read this regularly know that every few months I like to do a “tips on how to play” posting, for those new to the game. Or for those who go to brick and mortar casinos and just want to have a better chance to win.

So, for the intermediate and seasoned players, check back next week. You probably already know this stuff.

The basic and most elemental principle is this: a card deck with tens and aces is likely to bust the dealer; thus, the deck of cards is in favor to the player.

Similarly, a card deck with small numbers is in favor to the dealer.

So you must try to card count.

I know. I know. I suck at card counting too.

First, the player should keep track of all the cards which were already played to be able to gauge how rich or how lacking the deck of cards is.

Assign a value of point to every card played.

This is basically what all card counters do.

How about simplifying it this way: a plus point is given to a card if it is favorable, and a minus point to a less favorable one.

Thus, high cards are assigned minus one (-1) point while low cards are given plus one (+1). Those in cards in between are given zero (0).

The card counter then keeps track of all cards played and designates either adding or subtracting points to each and updates the total from time to time. The total process is called ‘running count’.

Or, if you have the memory, you can ‘true count’.

This is obtained after the card counter divides the running count with the proportion of the card deck size remaining. This then determines the richness or lack in the deck of card.

Also, the counter should check the up card of the dealer.

This is to weigh his options and determine if he will bet the maximum or not. The point is that a positive count is of course very good, and a high positive count is always the best.

If your count is positive and high, then the deck of cards is in your favor.

With this, the dealer may hit and hit to reach 17 or may get busted. If you can determine that your count is high and the remaining cards are low, bet as high as you can.

Counting may seem hard. And it is, for folks with lousy memories, like me.

Practice. Practice on your computer.

Many online casinos have practice for free games.

They want you to get into it. And then play for real.

Another tip: limit your money and time.

When you have reached your limit. Stop.

Casinos want you to keep playing. Because eventually, they win. They know this. So if you get on a hot streak, think about stopping. Of course, if you are a card counter….

Play on.

I hope this helps. At least a little.