The core idea
For every combination of your hand vs. the dealer's up-card, there is one statistically best move (hit, stand, double, or split). Basic strategy charts list every one of them.
Quick rules to memorise
If you remember nothing else, remember these.
- •Always split Aces and 8s.
- •Never split 5s or 10s.
- •Stand on hard 17 or higher.
- •Hit hard 8 or lower, always.
- •Double on 11 vs. dealer 2–10.
- •Stand on soft 19+; hit soft 17 vs. dealer 9, 10, or A.
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Pick the right table
Look for blackjack pays 3:2 (not 6:5), dealer stands on soft 17, and double after split allowed. These rules can swing the house edge by 1% or more.
Bankroll basics
Never bet more than 1–2% of your bankroll on a single hand. This keeps variance manageable when the cards run cold.