How to play blackjack: rules and basic strategy
Blackjack is one of the few casino games where your decisions change the odds — which makes it worth learning properly.
The goal
Beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21.
Card values
- 2–10: face value
- J, Q, K: 10
- Ace: 1 or 11, whichever helps you
A blackjack (or “natural”) is an Ace plus a 10-value card on your first two cards.
Your options
| Move | What it does |
|---|---|
| Hit | Take another card |
| Stand | Keep your total |
| Double down | Double your bet, take exactly one more card |
| Split | Split a pair into two hands (second bet required) |
| Surrender | Give up half your bet (where offered) |
The dealer follows fixed rules — typically drawing until 17 or more.
Basic strategy
Basic strategy is the mathematically best play for every combination of your hand and the dealer’s up-card. Played correctly, it reduces the house edge to roughly 0.5% on games with player-friendly rules (the exact figure depends on the table). Some core rules:
- Always split Aces and 8s.
- Never split 10s or 5s.
- Stand on hard 17 or more.
- Double on 11 against most dealer up-cards.
- Hit hard 12–16 when the dealer shows 7 or higher.
Most online tables let you look up a strategy chart in the game help.
Table rules that matter
- 3:2 vs 6:5 payout on blackjack — always prefer 3:2.
- Dealer stands or hits on soft 17 — standing is better for you.
- Number of decks — fewer is slightly better.
Remember
Even with perfect play, the house keeps an edge. Set a budget before you sit down.
Frequently asked questions
Can you beat blackjack?
Basic strategy reduces the house edge but doesn't remove it. Over time the casino still has an advantage.
What's the difference between 3:2 and 6:5 blackjack?
A natural blackjack pays $15 on a $10 bet at 3:2, but only $12 at 6:5. 6:5 tables significantly increase the house edge.