Blackjack

How to Win in Blackjack

By: Linda Harrison

When it comes to blackjack, you don't really need to have excellent bluffing skills to win as you would in poker. Or even have an inordinate amount of luck as you would when spinning the wheel in roulette or simply trying your chances at a slot machine.
In the game of blackjack, you must not be afraid to take risks because this is the game that offers the best chances of winning. So take advantage of that and remember to always play to win in blackjack!
Blackjack Tip #1 - Play to Win and Take Insurance Only When You Have To
Remember, in the game of blackjack, you're only gambling against the dealer and no one else. Yes, it helps to know the cards of other players because you'll be able to determine the probability of your cards winnin,g but the most significant thing to concentrate on is how to beat the dealer's cards.
Hence, don't take insurance unless you have to since it's truly just betting against yourself.
Blackjack Tip #2 - The Rules of Splitting
When the first two cards you're dealt with are a pair of the same value (like 7/7), then you have the option to split your cards into two and play them separately, just as long as you place the same amount of bet on each card.
Now, while most players would either always or never split their cards, there is actually a strategy that can be applied to this particular situation and improve your chances at winning in blackjack. If you have two 10's or two 5's, it's inadvisable to split cards so simply stick with them. If you have two 8's or 7's for example and the dealer shows you a card that's equal or with a lower value like 6 or 5, that's the time you should split your cards. When it comes to having face cards, you're advised to never split them as well. But when it comes to aces, split them immediately.
Blackjack Tip #3 - Maximizing the Use of Double Down
If you feel that the first two cards the dealer gave you are so good, you always have the option of doubling down and doubling your bet. This is actually the best option available to blackjack players so never let the opportunity to double down slip you by. Be aggressive, especially if the situation warrants it!
Enjoyed reading the tips so far? Feeling confident right now? If so, go play blackjack and see how much your newfound knowledge can help you!