Blackjack is a card game in which players compete against the dealer to make the highest point total. The game is played on a semicircular table that seats varying numbers of players. Some tables only accommodate seven players, while others can seat as many as 12. The dealer stands behind the table and chip rack.
The dealer deals each player two cards, face up and herself two cards, face down. When a player’s total is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, the player wins and is paid according to posted table limits. If the dealer’s hand busts, the player loses. Ties are a push and the player’s bet remains on the table.
To request another card, a player must “hit.” A player may hit as many times as they like until their hand total is over 21 or they can decide to stand or quit playing. A hit is a risky move, because the player could receive a card that takes their total points above 21, causing them to bust and lose.
A player’s hand can be made “soft” or “hard.” Soft hands are those that include an Ace, which has a variable value. A player’s other cards will determine whether their hand is hard. A hard hand is one that does not include an ace or any other cards with a variable value.
The player can also choose to double down, surrender, or take insurance. Doubling down is a risky play, because it requires the player to place a second bet equal in size to their original wager. The player’s turn ends after they receive the third card.
When a player surrenders, they forfeit their hand to the dealer and recover half of their initial stake. The dealer will then continue to deal the remaining cards. Insurance is a side bet that pays 2 to 1 when the dealer has an ace showing.
Taking insurance is a poor decision. The dealer is almost always going to have a better hand than the player, so the insurance bet will usually cost the player more money than they would have won on their original bet. It is generally recommended that a player never take insurance in blackjack.
Effective bankroll management is critical for long-term success in blackjack. A player should set a budget and predetermine how much they are willing to spend per hand. This will help them avoid making emotional decisions that can lead to financial strain. It is also recommended that a player play on the lowest minimum blackjack tables available to minimize risk. This way, if they lose a few hands, they will not have lost too much of their bankroll. Having a plan for when to walk away from the table will also help a player maintain control of their finances.