If you’re a fan of blackjack, you’ve probably heard of the phrase “basic strategy”. So, what exactly is basic strategy? In a nutshell, it’s a set of rules that can help you make the most mathematically correct decisions when playing blackjack.
The goal of basic strategy is to reduce the house edge as much as possible. The house edge is the percentage advantage that the casino has over the player, and it varies depending on the specific rules of the game. By using basic strategy, you can lower this edge to less than 1%, making it one of the most effective ways to improve your chances of winning at blackjack.
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So, what are some key aspects of basic strategy that you should know? Let’s take a closer look:
1. Hit or Stand
The first decision you’ll make in any blackjack game is whether to hit or stand.
This decision is based on your hand total and the dealer’s up card. A general rule to follow is to hit if your hand total is 8 or less (unless you have a pair), and stand if your hand total is 17 or more. For all other hand totals, there are specific rules based on the dealer’s up card.
2. Doubling Down
In some situations, it may be advantageous to double down – that is, double your original bet in exchange for receiving only one more card.
You should only double down if it gives you an advantage based on basic strategy. For example, if your hand total is 11 and the dealer’s up card is 6 or lower, it’s a good idea to double down.
3. Splitting Pairs
If you’re dealt a pair (two cards with the same rank), you have the option to split them and play them as separate hands.
Again, there are specific rules for when it’s advantageous to split pairs based on basic strategy. For example, always split aces and 8s, but never split 10s or face cards.
4. Insurance
Insurance is a side bet that you can make if the dealer’s up card is an ace.
It pays out 2:1 if the dealer has a blackjack (a hand total of 21), but it’s generally not recommended based on basic strategy. The odds of the dealer having a blackjack are relatively low, and you’re better off sticking to basic strategy for your main bets.
Overall, the key to using basic strategy effectively is to memorize the rules and apply them consistently. It may take some practice to get used to making decisions based on math rather than instinct, but it’s well worth it in the long run. By using basic strategy, you can maximize your chances of winning at blackjack and minimize the house edge.
