Blackjack, also known as 21, is one of the most popular card games in casinos around the world. It’s fast-paced, easy to learn, and combines both luck and skill. Whether you’re a beginner or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently sit down at a casino blackjack table.
Table of Contents
What Is Blackjack?
Blackjack is a card game where the goal is to beat the dealer by having a hand value as close to 21 as possible—without going over (busting). Each player competes only against the dealer, not against other players at the table.
Basic Card Values
| Card | Value |
|---|---|
| 2 – 10 | Face value (e.g., 7 = 7) |
| Jack, Queen, King | 10 |
| Ace | 1 or 11 (your choice) |
The Ace is special—it can count as either 1 or 11, depending on what benefits your hand the most.
Example:
- Ace + 8 = 19
- Ace + 6 = 7 or 17 (your choice)
Objective of the Game
Your goal is to:
- Get a higher hand value than the dealer without going over 21.
- Or let the dealer bust (go over 21) while your hand stays 21 or under.
Step-by-Step: How to Play Blackjack
1. Place Your Bet
Before any cards are dealt, players place their bets in the betting circle. Minimum and maximum bet limits are posted at the table.
2. Initial Deal
- Each player gets two cards, face up.
- The dealer gets two cards: one face up (called the upcard) and one face down (called the hole card).
3. Check for Blackjack
If you or the dealer has an Ace + 10-value card (i.e., a Jack, Queen, King, or 10), it’s a Blackjack.
| Scenario | Result |
|---|---|
| You have Blackjack, dealer doesn’t | You win 1.5x your bet |
| Both have Blackjack | It’s a tie (push) |
| Dealer has Blackjack, you don’t | You lose |
Player’s Turn: Choose Your Move
You now choose how to play your hand. Your options are:
| Move | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Hit | Ask for another card. |
| Stand | Keep your current hand. |
| Double Down | Double your bet, get only one more card, then stand. |
| Split | If you have a pair (e.g., two 8s), split them into two separate hands. |
| Surrender (if allowed) | Give up half your bet and end your hand. |
Example Decision Table (Player Total vs. Dealer Upcard):
| Your Hand | Dealer Shows | Recommended Move |
|---|---|---|
| 16 | 7 – Ace | Hit |
| 12 | 2 – 3 | Hit |
| 13 – 16 | 2 – 6 | Stand |
| 11 | Any | Double Down if allowed |
| 8 or less | Any | Hit |
| A + 6 (soft 17) | 3 – 6 | Double Down or Hit |
| A + 8 (soft 19) | 6 or less | Stand |
This is part of a basic strategy chart. Full strategy charts are available online or in books.
Dealer’s Turn
Once all players finish their turns:
- The dealer reveals their hole card.
- Dealers must hit until they reach 17 or higher.
- If the dealer busts (goes over 21), all remaining players win.
Winning and Payouts
| Result | Payout |
|---|---|
| You win normally | 1:1 (even money) |
| You win with Blackjack | 3:2 (or 1.5x your bet) |
| It’s a tie (push) | Your bet is returned |
| You lose | You lose your bet |
Note: Some casinos may offer 6:5 payouts on Blackjack instead of 3:2. This is worse for players, so always look for 3:2 tables if possible.
Blackjack Tips for Beginners
- Learn Basic Strategy: Use a basic strategy chart to make the statistically best decisions.
- Avoid Insurance Bets: It’s usually a bad bet in the long run.
- Start Small: Begin at low-limit tables to get comfortable.
- Watch Table Rules: Look for tables where the dealer stands on soft 17 and Blackjack pays 3:2.
- Manage Your Bankroll: Set a win/loss limit and stick to it.
Glossary of Common Terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hit | Take another card |
| Stand | Stop taking cards |
| Bust | Hand goes over 21 |
| Push | Tie between you and the dealer |
| Double Down | Double your bet and receive only one more card |
| Split | Divide a pair into two separate hands |
| Soft Hand | A hand that includes an Ace counted as 11 (e.g., A + 6) |
| Hard Hand | A hand without an Ace or with an Ace counted as 1 |
Blackjack is one of the few casino games where skill can reduce the house edge. By learning the rules, understanding basic strategy, and playing responsibly, you can increase your chances of winning while enjoying one of the most exciting games on the casino floor.
Whether you’re just starting out or heading to your first casino, remember: play smart, stay calm, and have fun.
