Basic Blackjack Strategy Explained
Basic blackjack strategy is a mathematically optimal approach to playing each hand based on the player’s cards and the dealer’s up card. By following this strategy, players can minimize the house edge and increase their chances of winning. This article will provide a concise overview of basic strategy and show you cheat sheet for quick reference.
The Fundamentals
The objective of blackjack is to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand without going over 21 (busting). Face cards are worth 10 points, Aces can be worth 1 or 11 points, and all other cards are worth their face value. Basic strategy is based on the player’s hand total (hard or soft) and the dealer’s up card.
Hard Hands
4-8: Always hit
9: Double down if dealer has 3-6, otherwise hit
10-11: Double down if dealer has 2-9, otherwise hit
12: Hit if dealer has 2-3 or 7-Ace, otherwise stand
13-16: Stand if dealer has 2-6, otherwise hit
17-21: Always stand
Soft Hands (with an Ace)
13-14: Double down if dealer has 5-6, otherwise hit
15-16: Double down if dealer has 4-6, otherwise hit
17: Double down if dealer has 3-6, otherwise hit
18: Stand if dealer has 2, 7, or 8; double down if dealer has 3-6, otherwise hit
19-21: Always stand
Pairs
Aces and 8s: Always split
5s or 10s: Never split
2s, 3s, or 7s: Split if dealer has 2-7, otherwise hit
4s: Split if dealer has 5-6, otherwise hit
6s: Split if dealer has 2-6, otherwise hit
9s: Split if dealer has 2-9 (except 7), otherwise stand
Blackjack Cheat Sheet
This colour-coded cheat sheet that displays the optimal decision for each player hand and dealer up card combination.
Legend:
H: Hit | S: Stand | D: Double Down | P: Split
Exception & Variations
Basic strategy may vary slightly depending on the specific rules of the game, such as allowing doubling down after splitting or paying 6:5 for a blackjack. Advanced players may deviate from basic strategy based on card counting, but for most players, strictly adhering to basic strategy is the most effective approach.
Practicing Basic Strategy
1. Memorize the strategy for hard hands first
2. Practice with the cheat sheet, gradually relying on it less
3. Use online blackjack trainers or apps for feedback
4. Play low-stakes or free online games to practice
5. Regularly review the cheat sheet and strategy matrix
Try Out the Basic Blackjack Strategy
By understanding and implementing basic blackjack strategy, beginners can reduce the house edge and increase their chances of winning. While it cannot guarantee a profit, basic strategy is the most effective way to minimize losses and maximize potential gains over time. With practice and the use of our downloadable cheat sheet, mastering basic strategy can be achievable for any player.