Blackjack Odds
Blackjack is one of the few casino
games which you can affect the odds
through sound playing. With foolish play, you can screw
up in most any game of chance. But the decisions you
make in games like craps and roulette don't necessarily
change the odds. In blackjack, you decide when to hit or
when to stand, as well as how much to bet and when, so
you have control over the
house edge. Quite simply, your odds will not be the same
as the poor sap standing next to you.
You will often hear the words "basic strategy" when you
read about blackjack. This is an important term to take
note of...and an important guide to follow. When you
follow basic strategy, you follow where the hard science
of mathematics points. Following basic strategy, the
house edge can shrink to 0.5%. Reckless players will see
the house edge notch up to somewhere between 3% to 5%.
That means they are wasting the opportunities they have
to win at
blackjack.
Keep in mind several things when considering blackjack
odds and basic strategy. First, keep in mind the number
of decks being used, as well as whether the dealer hits
on a Soft-17. Basically, the fewer decks, the easier it
is to tell which card might next come up. Also, dealers
who stand on the Soft-17 are better for you.
Second, figure out the rules on doubling down. Do not
play at a table where doubling down is not allowed.
Double anytime the charts call for it. Find out whether
you can double on a split, or whether you can surrender.
You want to have these options, which help your payout
odds.
Third, remember to keep a handle on your bankroll. If
you win early, pocket most of your winnings. That way,
you either walk out with big winnings, or have minimal
losses. If you lose early, make it a hard-and-fast rule
that you donšt bet again when you get past your limit.
Generally, it is wise not to double bets when you are on
a losing streak. This might not be conventionally sound,
but it keeps you from doubling your bets to recover from
your losses quickly. It is when you arenšt thinking
clearly that you can hurt yourself in a casino.
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