Blackjack is a popular card game that has been played for centuries. It involves the player trying to beat the dealer by getting a hand value as close to 21 as possible without going over.
One of the strategies used in blackjack is to keep a running count of the cards that have been played. This article will explain how you can keep a running count in blackjack.
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First, it is important to understand what a running count is. A running count is a method used by players in blackjack to keep track of which cards have been played and which ones are still left in the deck. The running count starts at zero and increases or decreases with each card that is dealt.
To keep a running count, you will need to assign values to each card. In most counting systems, low cards (2-6) are assigned a value of +1, while high cards (10-Ace) are assigned a value of -1. Cards with a value of 7, 8, or 9 are considered neutral and do not affect the running count.
As cards are dealt, you will need to mentally add or subtract their values from the running count. For example, if the first two cards dealt are a 6 and an Ace, your running count would be -1 (6 = +1 and Ace = -1). If the next card dealt is an 8, your running count would remain at -1 because 8 is neutral.
It can be difficult to keep track of all the cards that have been played while also playing the game. To make it easier, many players use a method called “back-counting”. This involves standing behind other players at the table and only entering the game when the deck becomes favorable based on your running count.
Another strategy used by players is “betting according to your count”. This means that when your running count is positive (indicating that there are more high cards left in the deck), you should increase your bet. When your running count is negative (indicating that there are more low cards left in the deck), you should decrease your bet.
It is important to note that counting cards is not illegal, but it is frowned upon by casinos. If you are caught counting cards, you may be asked to leave the casino.
It is also important to remember that counting cards does not guarantee that you will win every hand or even win overall. It simply increases your odds of winning over time.
In conclusion, keeping a running count in blackjack can be a useful strategy for increasing your odds of winning. By assigning values to each card and mentally adding or subtracting them from the running count, you can keep track of which cards have been played and which ones are still left in the deck. Remember to use back-counting and betting according to your count to maximize your chances of winning.
