Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games, and with good reason. It is a game of skill, and players who understand basic strategy can beat the house. But there is a lot more to know than just the basics, and it can be easy to get confused about what action to take in each situation.

The game starts with the player placing a bet in the betting areas on the table, then being dealt two cards. If these cards add up to 21 (an Ace and a card valued 10 or higher) the hand is called a blackjack and wins the round. Otherwise, the player can decide to’stay’ or ‘hit’ to try and improve their hand.

It’s also important to understand that the dealer is in control of the game and it isn’t a game between the players. This is an important reminder because sometimes players will become distracted by the other people at their table and it can affect their decision making. It’s best to play in an environment where you can give the game your full attention.

When to Hit

Whenever you have a chance to improve your hand, it is usually worth trying. But the key is to do it in a way that doesn’t increase your risk of busting. A hard total of 16 is a great example, as you will bust 62% of the time when you hit it. Generally, you should stick to hitting when the dealer is showing a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6.

When to Double Down

When you’re playing blackjack, there are some situations where it is more advantageous to double down than to hit. Usually this is when you have a very strong hand and you know that adding a single card will improve your odds of beating the dealer. For example, if you have a hand of 14 and the dealer is showing an ace, you should always double down.

Insurance

Taking insurance is never a good idea when you’re playing blackjack. In general, the insurance will lose to the dealer’s blackjack and your side bet will win. However, in some cases the insurance will be a push, meaning that you’ll get your original bet back.

Keeping these tips in mind, you can learn to make better decisions at the blackjack table and eventually start winning more often. But don’t forget that it takes a lot of practice to master this game. Don’t be afraid to practice at home or with a friend. Eventually, you’ll be ready to try some of the more advanced strategies that can help you beat the casino edge in the long run, like card counting. So get started and see how you can become a blackjack pro!