Winning Blackjack Strategies

Blackjack is very easy to learn but can be very difficult to master. Many people make the mistake of thinking that the object of Blackjack is to get as close as possible to 21. Nothing can be farther from the truth. The object of playing Blackjack is to beat the dealer. It is a game of one on one with the dealer. While you may be playing at a table with up to 5 or 6 other players what they do or do not do does not impact your hand or the decision you should make when playing your hand.

The following is a list of don'ts about playing Blackjack:

1. Don't worry about how the others at the table are playing. Other players have no effect on your outcome long term.
2. Don't take insurance or even money. Insurance is a bad bet
3. Don't be afraid of the dealer's deuce. More players lose to an Ace or 10 as the dealer's up card.
4. Don't play the side bets. The side bets like Lucky Ladies or Push the Dealer are just incentives to get more money out of the players. Over the long run these side bets favor the house. Always consider who is setting the rules and who decides what incentives will be offered at the tables. If the casino didn't think the side bets were favorable to them they would not be available to the players.
5. Don't drink alcohol at the table. Alcohol will impede your ability to remember the correct plays and make good decisions.

The following is a list of do's that can turn you into a winner:

1. Learn the rules before you go out to play.
2. Memorize the basic strategy that is appropriate for the game you are playing.
3. Vary your bets. Lower your bet when you're cold but don't be afraid to raise when your hot. If you only play one amount whether it's $5.00 per chip or $100.00 per chip you will lose in the long run. When you have some of their chips use them to your advantage.
4. Use your opportunities to double or split to your advantage.
5. Only play with the amount of money you can afford to lose. Set yourself a predetermined bankroll and do not exceed it. If you're afraid to bet you will not have a chance to win. If you're losing, get up from the table. Take a break. Go find another table or even another casino.