New Blackjack Player Tips

Blackjack is very popular because it’s a fast game and very simple to learn. The game can be profitable and exciting when played well, and there are some tips and tricks new players can learn to help boost their bankroll. There are no guaranteed ways of winning in blackjack, and players must remember this when playing for real money.

Never play with hopes of becoming rich, as that outcome is not likely when the house always has the edge.  At least in this game’s case, the house edge is significantly lower than in most table games you’ll play.  This helps a lot when you’re ready to have a night of fun or really looking to pad your bankroll and make some extra cash on the side.

Simple Blackjack Basics

With that said, players can still use these tips to improve their blackjack skills while at the tables. For example, the player should always keep in mind that the dealer MUST hit when they have a total of 16 or less in their hand, and basically that means with a 17 or less hand the odds are against the player.

Optimal times to play against the house are when you’re playing with just a SINGLE deck (although it’s rare in most live and online casinos) or playing a multi-shoe deck with a full table.  It decreases the house odds greatly in either of these scenarios, even if you have less-than-stellar hands like 12 through 15.  Standing on hands like this with dealers showing certain “up” cards will help in beating the dealer at showdown because if he/she isn’t showing a face card the chances are they’ll bust out against you.

In MOST cases, players at these types of tables or those who are in certain scenarios – FOR THE MOST PART – should always take another card, or “hit,” on any hand that is below a total of 17 when the dealer shows a face card, or an 8, 9, or 10. Players should stay on any hand above 11 when the dealer shows a 6, 5, or 4. If the player sticks to these rules, the odds are 40% that the dealer will bust out, and the player will win.

Check out our Blackjack Strategy guide here for more and don’t forget about our recommended rooms:

Table Selection and Doubling Down

When choosing a table to play, it is important to pick one that has a minimum of 5% of your balance. You want to also take notice of the rules of each table because they do differ on the variations of games at different casinos. These rules do not necessarily benefit the house, and it is wise to keep your eyes on the ones that may benefit the players.

A key tip in playing blackjack is knowing when to double down your bet. This can help boost your bankroll if lucky. One thing to remember is to only double down if you truly believe you can beat the dealer. The best hands to double down on are those with a total of 11 or lower, as the odds are in your favor of not busting out.  Doubling on soft 13 or 17 may be beneficial when the dealer shows a 6, 5, or 4.

>> More tips are available through our other Blackjack Tips page as well.

Splitting Pairs

Just as important in blackjack is knowing when to split pairs. When you have two cards of the same value, the player may opt to split them into two hands. Each hand will have its own bet, and it will be two completely different hands where the player may hit or stand.

Players should avoid splitting 10 or 5 cards, and should split 7 or 8s when the dealer has a lower card, or the same card showing. Always split 2 and 3’s against the dealers 4, 5, or 6. Another tip is to never split face cards, but always split aces.

Quick Summary

The few easy tips and tricks mentioned in this article will help improve your skills, and can help you know what to do during your time at the tables. Implement these into your gaming strategies, and it will make you a better blackjack player. Also, try the games out for free using these tips, and you will see how they work for you.