When Should You Draw in Blackjack?

Blackjack is a popular casino game that requires both luck and strategy. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer by having a hand that is closer to 21 without going over.

One of the most important decisions you will make in blackjack is whether or not to draw another card. In this article, we will discuss when you should draw in blackjack.

When the Dealer has a Weak Up Card

One of the best times to draw in blackjack is when the dealer has a weak up card. If the dealer’s up card is a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, their chances of busting are high.

In this scenario, it is recommended that you draw until you have a hand that is at least 12 or higher. This will increase your chances of winning as the dealer is likely to bust.

When You Have a Soft Hand

A soft hand in blackjack refers to a hand that contains an Ace which can be counted as either 1 or 11. For example, if you have an Ace and a 7, your hand would be considered soft because it can be counted as either an 8 or an 18.

When you have a soft hand, it gives you more flexibility in drawing cards without risking busting. In general, if your soft hand totals less than 18, it’s recommended that you draw another card.

When You Have a Hard Hand

A hard hand in blackjack refers to any hand that does not contain an Ace or contains an Ace that can only be counted as one point. For example, if you have a Jack and a 9, your hand would be considered hard because there are no Aces present.

When playing with hard hands, you need to be more cautious when drawing cards. If your hand totals 12 or higher, it’s recommended that you stand. However, if your hand totals less than 12, it’s recommended that you draw another card.

When You Have a Pair

If you are dealt a pair in blackjack, it is important to remember that you have the option to split your hand into two separate hands. When splitting your hand, you will need to place an additional bet equal to your initial wager.

After splitting, each hand will be dealt an additional card. In general, if you have a pair of Aces or 8s, it’s recommended that you split your hand.

Conclusion

Knowing when to draw in blackjack can make the difference between winning and losing. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can improve your chances of winning at blackjack. Remember to play responsibly and never gamble more than you can afford to lose.