If you’re like most casino players, you play blackjack with the goal of winning. Unfortunately, if you have poor strategy, act greedy or make careless decisions at the table, it can cost you big. Avoid these deadly blackjack mistakes so you can win more hands and enjoy the casino experience.
In blackjack, the dealer and player each receive two cards. If the player surpasses a total of 21 and the dealer does not bust, the player wins. If both the dealer and the player have a total of 21, the hand results in a push (no one wins).
Many free resources are available for learning basic strategy, including charts that display whether to hit, stand, or double down based on the player’s cards and the dealer’s up card. These charts can be used right at the blackjack table, and most casinos allow them even in high limit games. The most important thing to remember when playing blackjack is that probability cannot predict the outcome of every hand. You can learn to increase your bankroll gradually by varying your bet size, but you must always go back to the original bet after losing a hand.
Some people use counting cards to help them win blackjack, but this technique is frowned upon by most casinos. The card counting system works by watching the cards as they are dealt and only sitting down to play when there is a favorable count. This can reduce the bet spread a player uses and can give them an edge over the dealer. However, the technique can be difficult to master and casinos are aware of it.
When you’re on a winning streak at the blackjack table, don’t raise your bets too much. The table doesn’t know how well you played the previous hands, and increasing your bets too quickly will decrease your chances of ending a gaming session in the black. If you’re unsure of your blackjack betting strategy, consider asking a professional gambler for advice.
A good rule of thumb for increasing your bets is to do so in increments of $5, not $10 or $20. This will keep you from over-stretching your bankroll and ensure that you have enough money to play until the streak ends. Also, be sure to set a limit for how much you’re willing to lose before you begin playing blackjack. This will help you keep your emotions in check and will keep you from making rash decisions that can lead to a bigger loss than you expected. In addition, don’t be afraid to walk away from a hot or cold table if you feel your money is running out. You can find a Station Casinos blackjack game at one of our locations and try your luck with the real pros.