When it comes to playing blackjack, one of the most important things to keep in mind is the count. The count refers to the number of cards that have been dealt and can help players determine the likelihood of certain cards being dealt next.
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But what exactly does it mean for the count to be high or low in blackjack Let’s take a closer look.
First, it’s important to understand how the count works. In blackjack, each card has a point value assigned to it.
High cards (10s and face cards) are worth -1 point, while low cards (2s through 6s) are worth +1 point. Neutral cards (7s, 8s, and 9s) have a value of 0.
As the game progresses and more cards are dealt, players can keep track of the count by adding or subtracting points from a running tally. A high count indicates that there are more low cards left in the deck, while a low count indicates that there are more high cards left.
So which is better – a high count or a low count Well, it depends on your strategy.
If you’re using a basic strategy chart, which outlines the optimal plays for every possible hand combination based on the dealer’s up card, then you’ll want to adjust your playing decisions based on whether the count is high or low. When the count is high (meaning there are more low cards left), basic strategy suggests that you should be more aggressive and hit on hands that you might otherwise stand on. This is because there’s a higher likelihood of drawing another low card and improving your hand without busting.
Conversely, when the count is low (meaning there are more high cards left), basic strategy suggests that you should be more conservative and stand on hands that you might otherwise hit on. This is because there’s a higher likelihood of drawing a high card and busting your hand.
Of course, not everyone plays blackjack using a basic strategy chart. Some players prefer more advanced techniques, such as card counting, which involves keeping track of the count and adjusting your bets accordingly. In this case, a high count is generally more favorable, as it indicates that there are more low cards left in the deck and therefore a higher likelihood of hitting blackjack (a 2-card hand worth 21 points).
It’s worth noting that card counting is not illegal, but it is frowned upon by casinos. If you’re caught counting cards, you may be asked to leave the table or even banned from the casino.
In summary, whether you want the count to be high or low in blackjack depends on your playing strategy. If you’re using a basic strategy chart, adjust your playing decisions based on the count – hit more when it’s high and stand more when it’s low.
If you’re using more advanced techniques like card counting, aim for a high count to increase your chances of hitting blackjack. But remember to practice responsible gambling and play within your means!
- Key Takeaways:
- The count refers to the number of cards that have been dealt in blackjack.
- A high count indicates that there are more low cards left in the deck.
- A low count indicates that there are more high cards left in the deck.
- If you’re using a basic strategy chart, adjust your playing decisions based on whether the count is high or low.
- If you’re using advanced techniques like card counting, aim for a high count to increase your chances of hitting blackjack.
Additional Tips:
– Always practice responsible gambling and play within your means. – Remember that card counting is not illegal, but it is frowned upon by casinos.
– Don’t be afraid to ask the dealer for clarification on rules or strategies if you’re unsure. – Consider playing online blackjack to practice your skills before heading to a physical casino.
