A Beginner’s Guide to the Game of Blackjack
Basic rules
Aside from the basic rules of the game, there are also numerous side-rules that allow for more complicated betting strategies. These side-rules must be used immediately after the dealer deals out his cards and can’t be used if the dealer has already taken several cards. As an example, if the dealer has an ace, the player may opt to double down if he has a blackjack. However, this strategy will cost the player one hand out of every twelve hours of play.
Table etiquette
Before you sit down to play a game of blackjack, you need to review blackjack table etiquette. This includes not using your cell phone while at the table, not taking too long to make decisions, and not touching any chips. Changing any of your chips on the table is considered cheating. When observing the game of blackjack, stand behind the player rather than to one side. Make sure that you are courteous with the dealer.
Card-counting system
There are several types of card-counting systems for blackjack, and each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. The Omega II card-counting system, for example, is a more advanced system that requires more effort to memorize, but it is very accurate. This system is best used by players with experience and is based on complex math. If you’re not an experienced player, you should first try the simpler methods to get a feel for the basics of card counting.
Payouts
Insurance bets are not included in the basic payout of the game of blackjack. The player has a chance of winning at least twice as much as their main wager when the dealer reaches a blackjack. This is known as “taking even money” and pays out immediately. Insurance bets are often the only way a player can protect themselves against the possibility of a dealer blackjack. By placing the maximum insurance bet, the player can cover the loss from the original bet with the proceeds of the insurance bet.