Winning strategies for Blackjack

Blackjack isn’t a game for the meek. It’s for those willing to take risks and double their gains. However, it doesn’t mean risking your stash foolishly. Winning a game of blackjack requires a lot of strategizing and meticulous planning. There is no surefire and foolproof winning strategy. Winning the game depends on the player’s wits.

            Here are a few tips that will assist in winning the game, but one must always be prepared for ups and downs as gambling can never be risk free. Your aim should be to lessen the house’s chances of winning and get an edge over it.

Tips to be followed while playing the game:

Blackjack involves in getting closer to but not exceeding 21 at hand.

o   If you have a 9 or lower at hand, you must always go for a hit.

o   In case of a 10 or 11, go for a hit. But, if the dealer’s upcard is showing lesser than the total of your cards, it is better to go for a double down as you have more chances of winning the game.

o   Go for a hit when the dealer’s upcard is 7 or more and your total is between 12 and 16. If not, it’s more advisable to go for a stand. If you have 17 or higher, you have to stand as you are at a much greater risk of losing.

o   In case of soft hands, i.e. when you have an ace (that equals 11) and any number between 1-9, the options change. If you have 13-18, double down if the dealer shows either 5 or 6. Take a hit if you have 17 or lower. You can go for a hit even when the dealer’s upcard is 6 or less, but go for a stand if his card shows 7 or more. Always stand if you have 19 or higher because you are at the risk of losing the game.

o   On any hand below 17, go for a hit when the dealer shows ace, K, Q, J, 10, 9, or 8.

o   Double down when the dealer is showing a 3 and you have a soft 17. Doubling down is very important in blackjack. When you strongly feel you have a winning hand, go for a double down. In case of 11, double with 10 against a 9 or lower. If you have a soft hand of 13-17 against 4,5 or 6, double with 9.

o   Always remember to split aces and eights. Face cards, 10s, 4s, and 5s should never be split. When the dealers shows 6 or less, split all other pairs. Split 8s or 7s if the dealer’s upcard is of equal or lower value.

While choosing a table, keep in mind that it’s minimum shouldn’t be more than 5% of what you are willing to stake. It must also give you the choice of doubling down on two cards and a stand on soft 17. Other rule variations should also be considered while choosing a table.