Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games played around the world. It is a game of skill and strategy that requires players to make strategic decisions based on the cards they are dealt with.
One of the key decisions that players have to make is whether to split or double down their hand. In this tutorial, we will explain what splitting and doubling down means in blackjack and how players can use these moves to increase their chances of winning.
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What Is Splitting in Blackjack?
Splitting is a move that allows players to divide their hand into two separate hands when they are dealt with a pair of identical cards. For example, if a player is dealt with two 7s, they can choose to split their hand into two separate hands, each with one 7 card.
To split a hand, the player must place an additional bet equal to their original bet on the new hand. Once the player has split their hand, they will play each hand separately as though they were two separate hands.
Splitting is an advantageous move for players because it gives them an opportunity to create two strong hands from one weak hand. For instance, if a player splits a pair of 8s and draws another 8 on one of the hands, they can split again and create another strong hand.
When Is Splitting Recommended?
There are certain situations in which splitting is recommended for blackjack players. Here are some general guidelines:
– Always split Aces: When a player is dealt with a pair of Aces, it’s always recommended to split them as it gives them an opportunity to create two strong hands.
– Split 8s: This is another common strategy in blackjack as it helps players avoid having a weak hand.
– Never Split 10s: Players should never split 10s as it’s already considered a strong hand.
What Is Doubling Down in Blackjack?
Doubling down is another strategic move in blackjack that allows players to double their original bet in exchange for receiving one additional card. Players can only double down if they have two cards in their hand, and the total value of those two cards is 9, 10, or 11.
When a player decides to double down, they must place an additional bet equal to their original bet. Once the player has doubled down, they will receive one additional card and then stand pat.
Doubling down is an advantageous move for players because it allows them to increase their potential payout when they have a strong hand. For example, if a player has a total of 11 and doubles down, they have a high chance of drawing either a 10 or an Ace which gives them a strong hand.
When Is Doubling Down Recommended?
There are certain situations in which doubling down is recommended for blackjack players. Here are some general guidelines:
– Double Down on Hard 11: When a player has a total value of 11 with their first two cards (excluding an Ace), they should always double down.
– Double Down on Soft 16-18: When a player has a soft hand with a total value between 16 and 18 (including an Ace), they should consider doubling down.
– Never Double Down on Hard Totals Over 11: Players should never double down on hard totals over 11 as it increases the risk of going bust.
Conclusion
Splitting and doubling down are two strategic moves that can help blackjack players increase their chances of winning. Splitting allows players to create strong hands from weak hands while doubling down increases the potential payout when players have strong hands.
However, it’s important for players to use these moves wisely and only in situations where it’s recommended based on the guidelines we’ve provided above. By using these strategies effectively, blackjack players can improve their overall game play and increase their chances of winning at the casino tables!
