Blackjack is a game in which players compete against the dealer. The object is to draw cards with a total value of 21 or as close to it as possible without going over. A player who draws a hand that exceeds 21 will bust and lose to the dealer. The house edge in the game is about 6%. The best way to minimize it is to play the game with a large bankroll, avoid insurance bets and other side wagers, and follow basic strategy charts.
Whether you’re playing at home or at the casino, there are some key things you should know to maximize your chances of winning. First, always hit when you have a strong starting hand, such as an Ace or a nine. Double down when you can, particularly if the dealer has a ten or an ace and you have a 10. This will give you a better chance of making a strong hand and will help you win more hands in the long run.
It is also important to know when to stand. If you have 16 and the dealer has a seven, you should stand. Otherwise, the dealer will have a blackjack and you will be forced to surrender your stake to them. In addition, never split a pair of eights or aces unless the dealer has an Ace, a ten, or a nine.
A good blackjack player will keep track of how many cards have been dealt in the deck by keeping a running count. The most common counting system is the Hi-Lo method, but there are many different systems that can be used. It’s important to practice keeping a running count before trying it in a real casino. To do this, place a single deck of cards on your table and turn over each card one at a time, adding them up as you go.
In addition to counting cards, a good blackjack player will know when to deviate from basic strategy based on the count. Some people even count the number of aces in the deck to help predict which cards will be dealt. Keeping track of the count can be complicated, but it’s an excellent way to increase your winnings and decrease your losses.
In order to become a blackjack dealer, you must be able to understand the rules of the game, communicate effectively with customers, and provide exceptional customer service. Additionally, you should be able to spot cheaters and thieves and report them to the proper authorities. Having these skills will help you advance in your career as a blackjack dealer and will make you an excellent employee for any casino. If you’re interested in becoming a blackjack dealer, UofL offers an online Bachelor of Arts in General Studies that can help you get started on your gaming career. The program is designed for adult students who have college credits but have taken at least a two-year break from higher education.