Basic blackjack strategy has been developed by testing millions of hands on a computer simulating casino blackjack. Some of the parts of the strategy may seem strange and sometimes suicidal, but to maximize your chances of winning, you must follow the basic blackjack strategy guidelines.

Nobody can guarantee that the strategy will make a winner out of you no matter what. This strategy is mainly designed to help players win more money in the long haul, as well as lose less money in those situations where they have less chance of winning.

There are minor differences in strategy used between multi-deck and single- or double-deck blackjack. Since most casinos use multi- decks (more than two) in their blackjack games, the multi-deck basic blackjack strategy will be covered first. Memorize the table below to play proper multi-deck basic blackjack strategy

* Surrender (if that option is available) against a dealer’s ten.
** Surrender (if that option is available) against a dealer’s nine, ten, or ace.

Use this strategy at all times. After you take a hit, retotal your hand and look to see what you should do according to the chart above. For example, if you have a two and four on your first two cards (a total of six), then you look at the chart for six. (It tells you to hit.) Your new card is a three. Now you have a total of nine. You look at nine and it tells you to hit against everything. (Remember: you may only double down on your first two cards.)

Use the table below if you have a soft hand (you hold an ace). Note: A soft hand becomes a hard hand when you can no longer count the ace as eleven, because that value would put you over twenty-one and bust your hand.

The table below reveals when you should split pairs and when not to.

* Surrender (if that option is available).

Once you’ve split the pairs, play each hand separately. After you’ve split your hand, refer to either the hard hand chart or the soft hand chart, depending upon whether or not you hold an ace.

By memorizing and practicing the basic blackjack strategy, you’ll become a better blackjack player. The strategies outlined in the basic strategy tables for multi- deck blackjack may be used in single- or double-deck blackjack with the following exceptions. If you can’t find your hand in the charts below, use the multi- deck basic strategy chart.

* Surrender (if that option is available)

Mastering the basic strategy of blackjack is essential for anyone who wants to play like a pro. While it’s true that luck plays a significant role in the game, understanding the mathematics behind the strategy can greatly improve your odds of winning.

However, it’s important to remember that no strategy can guarantee a win, and it’s crucial to maintain a responsible attitude towards gambling. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the game and lose track of time and money. Therefore, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it, and to take regular breaks to avoid burnout.

Ultimately, playing blackjack is a balance between skill and chance. By following the basic strategy and playing responsibly, you can enjoy the game and increase your chances of winning.