How Do You Count Cards in Blackjack for Beginners?

In the game of blackjack, card counting is a strategy that players use to keep track of the proportion of high cards to low cards remaining in the deck. By doing this, players can get an idea of when the deck is favorable to them and adjust their betting accordingly.

The first step in card counting is to assign a point value to each card. The most common system assigns a value of +1 to 2s through 6s, 0 to 7s and 8s, and -1 to 9s through As. With this system, when the count is positive, there are more low cards left in the deck than high cards. This is favorable for the player because it means that there are more chances for the dealer to bust.

When the count is negative, there are more high cards left in the deck than low cards. This is unfavorable for the player because it means that there are more chances for the dealer to make a strong hand.

Once you have assigned a point value to each card, you will need to keep track of the running count as the cards are played. To do this, simply add up the point values of all of the cards that have been played.

For example, if 4 cards have been played and they were all 2s through 6s, then the running count would be +4. If 3 cards have been played and they were a 9, an 8, and a 7, then the running count would be 0.

Once you have a running count, you will need to convert it into a true count. This is because blackjack is usually played with multiple decks of cards, and so you need to take into account how many decks are remaining in order to get an accurate picture of what remains in the deck.

To do this, simply divide the running count by the number of decks remaining. For example, if there is a running count of +4 and there are 2 decks remaining, then the true count would be +2.

Once you have a true count, you can start adjusting your bets according to what remains in the deck. Generally speaking, when the true count is positive (meaning there are more low cards left), you should bet more money.

When the true count is negative (meaning there are more high cards left), you should bet less money.

Card counting can be a difficult strategy to master, but it can give players a significant edge over the casino if done correctly. If you’re interested in trying it out, we recommend practicing at home with a deck of cards first before taking it to the casino floor.