Basic Blackjack Strategy

Beat the Dealer, Beat the Casino

How to win at Black Jack, anywhere, any time

Advice and tips on how to beat Vegas - Can Las Vegas be beaten?

The table has been separated into four sections according to frequency of use. Section I should be learned first, followed by sections II, III, and IV. The correct play is found where you hand, initially consisting of 2 cards, intersects with the dealer's up card. Section I should be played according to the table-standing or hitting as indicated regardless of the number of cards you have. If your hand in sections II and III is made of 2 cards, you would play according to the table. If your hand is based on 3 or more cards, doubling down is usually not allowed. Also, some locations permit doubling down on 10 and 11 only. Hit when you can't double down with the exception of standing on an A, 7 against a dealer 3-6. Section IV consists of pairs only. Play your hand as indicated.

This grid answers the tough questions, such as, When do you hit on 16 against the dealer?  Do you hit 12 against the dealer's 12?  How do I play splits against the dealer?  When do I double down (especially on soft hands)?  You can't always be dealt a 21 or blackjack.  It's all the other hands that make your money.

Do what is says below unless you think you can count cards like the MIT Blackjack Team.  Here is a review of Ben Mezrich's book including a list of frequently asked questions about the team and how they did it.