The value of cards in blackjack is as follows:
Jacks, queens, and kings each bring ten points.
Aces get either one point or eleven points.
All other cards correspond to their numerical value.
So, how do you count blackjack points?
Don't worry; there's nothing difficult about it. You have to add up the values of the cards in your hand. However, there's a little caveat: If you've got an Ace in your hand, you can count it as either one point or eleven, depending on what's more beneficial to you in the current situation.
For example, let's say you're holding an ace and a five. You can count that hand for six points (one point + five points) or sixteen points (eleven points + five points). It's up to you to decide which option is worth choosing in any given situation.
Advanced Blackjack Strategies
For as long as blackjack has existed, so many people have been trying to find ways to win the game. Of course, there's no guaranteed way to win, but several strategies can help you increase your chances of winning.
Here are some blackjack tips and tricks:
Always make a "split" if you are dealt a pair of aces or a pair of eights. These are the two highest-scoring cards in blackjack.
If the dealer has a five or a six, he's likely to lose. Play a hit if you have 12 or more points in your hand.
If the dealer has a deuce or three, he is less likely to bust. Play a "stand" if you have 13 or more points in your hand.
Always double your bet if you have eleven. Eleven is a very strong hand, giving you a good chance of winning.
If the dealer has a seven or higher, he has a better chance of getting a blackjack. Play "insurance." Suppose you have blackjack (more on that in the glossary).
If the dealer has an ace, he also has a good chance of winning blackjack. In this case, see the previous point.
Remember to use a basic strategy and calculate your blackjack points carefully. With a little practice, you'll soon become a pro!
A Glossary of Blackjack Terms
You'll get used to all the blackjack terms over time, but here's a glossary of blackjack terms you're sure to encounter to get you started:
Blackjack is a situation where you have an ace and a ten-point card. This is the strongest hand in blackjack and pays at odds of three to two.
Overall, aka bust and break, is a situation where the value of your hand exceeds 21 points. If you overcall, you automatically lose and lose your bet.
Hit - you take another card from the dealer.
Stand translates to "stop" - you stick to the cards you have. Once you've played a frame, you can't make a hit.
Double-down or "double-down" - You double your bet and take another card from the dealer. You can only do this if you have two cards in your hand.
Split or "split" (sometimes "split") - You split your hand into two separate hands if you have two cards of equal value. You must then make a second bet on the new writing and play it separately.
Surrender: You give up your hand and lose half your bet. You can only do this if it's your first turn and you still need to take a card from the dealer.
Insurance: You make an extra bet on what the dealer has in his blackjack hand. This bet pays out at two-to-one odds if the dealer has blackjack.
Push: The value of your hand is the same as the dealer. It's a draw, and you get your bet back.
Soft Hand: You have an Ace in your hand. An ace can count as either one point or eleven points.
A hard hand: You have no ace, or an ace counts as only one point.
These are not all the blackjack terms you may encounter, but only the most necessary ones to get you started in the game. Over time, you will learn all the blackjack vocabulary and be able to play like a pro!
How to play blackjack responsibly?
Last but not least, blackjack is incredibly fun and exciting, but it's important to remember the principles of playing responsibly. Be sure to set a budget and stick to it. Know when it's time to leave the table. If you lose money, don't try to win it by playing even more. Play responsibly, and you can have fun without taking unnecessary risks.
We hope this blackjack guide has been useful to you. If you follow these rules and tips, you'll be able to have a lot of fun playing blackjack at the casino. Good luck in the game!