Blackjack Strategy:
Simple Basic Strategy

---

Blackjack strategy applied properly is extremely important when playing the game. Simple Basic strategy (BS) when used correctly yields only about a 0.5% house edge.

BS is a blueprint for players that can greatly reduce the house edge to the aforementioned. BS is easy to learn, though it does require some practice in order for you to apply proper blackjack strategy.

Blackjack Strategy Rules for Simple Basic Strategy 

Correct BS is always based on the “strength” of the player’s two card hand against the “value” of the dealer’s up card. When applying this method, the player always assumes that the dealer has a ten value card in the hole. The dealer always draws on 16 and stands on 17. Hence, the following strategy should be used whenever playing:

Player Hard Hands, (No Ace) if You Have:

8 or less, always hit.

9, double if dealer has 3 though 6, otherwise hit.

10, double if dealer has 2 through 9, otherwise hit.

11, Double against dealer 2 through 10, hit against Ace.

12, hit against 2 or 3, stand against 4 through 6, otherwise hit.

13 through 16, stand against 2 through 6, otherwise hit.

17 through 21, always stand.

Player Soft Hands, (One Ace) if You Have:

Ace 2 or 3, double against 5 or 6, otherwise hit.

Ace 4 or 5, double against 4 through 6, otherwise hit.

Ace 6, double against 3 through 6, otherwise hit.

Ace 7, stand against 2, 7 or 8, double against 3 through 6, otherwise hit.

Ace 8 or 9, always stand.

Player Pairs, if You Have:

Aces or eights, always split.

Twos or threes, split against 2 through 7, otherwise hit.

Fours, split against 5 or 6, otherwise hit.

Fives, double against 2 through 9, otherwise hit.

Sixes, split against 2 through 6, otherwise hit.

Sevens, split against 2 through 7, otherwise hit.

Nines, split against 2 through 6 and 8 or 9. Stand against 7, 10 or Ace.

Tens, always stand.

Basic strategy guidelines do vary slightly depending on the house rules. BS cards are available in printable table format at Amazon. You can view them on the above link to purchase direct.

While memorization and practice takes time and effort, the payoff is worth it because of the increased advantage for the player.

Most blackjack games have side bets. Side bets are always in a state of flux as new ones continually appear.    

Although tempting, the house edge increases a great deal when these options are selected. Always keep in mind that your bankroll is at a greater risk of a quicker depletion when making these inviting side bets.

Additional publications and videos about casino  gaming and other products can be found on Amazon. Click on the Amazon link(s) to purchase.

Try blackjack for free   

Return to Blackjack

Return to Home Page