Learning basic strategy is probably the most important skill for blackjack players. Playing with the proper strategy isn’t difficult to learn and can help make visits to the casino more fun and more profitable. Minimizing incorrect plays should make a bankroll last longer and minimize the house edge for the casino.
Counting cards is the next step to becoming the best blackjack player you can be. Learning this skill will continue to diminish the house edge for the casinos and could give you the edge so you walk away from the table a winner. Counting cards isn’t illegal but you can be asked to leave if a casino suspects that you’re counting. Here are some tips to get the most from counting cards in blackjack.
This blog post is meant to compliment the useful guide to counting cards already written. We’ll actually use some notes from the existing guide to get you started.
What is Card Counting?
When a player keeps track of each card that is dealt when playing blackjack. It’s a simple concept but easier said than done.
Why do I want to Count Cards?
Counting cards will help you know when the remaining cards in the shoe or decks favor you or favor the dealer. When the count is higher, you have a better chance of winning. When the cards are in your favor you might want to increase the bet to possibly make more money per win.
How do I Count Cards?
There are a variety of blackjack card counting methods. Find the system that works best for you and perfect it. I recommend the hi/lo system because it’s the more popular and easiest to find practice apps for online or on your mobile device. It’s also not too difficult to learn.
Understanding the Count
Low cards – 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 cards each are assigned a numbered score of +1.
High cards – 10, J, Q, K, and Ace are each assigned a numbered score of -1.
Middle cards – 7, 8 and 9 are each assigned a numbered score of 0.
Let’s Count Cards
Now that you know how to count you’ll want to practice counting and eventually remember the count. This isn’t an easy process and might not even be fun but it could help make you a great blackjack player.
What does the Count Mean?
The higher the count, the more large cards remain in the deck. When there are more large cards remaining in the deck the better the chances you’ll be dealt a good hand. This will increase the opportunity to win and when you should consider increasing your bet a little. You don’t want to get greedy because eventually the casino will catch on and ask you to leave.
Is Counting Cards Right For You?
Everyone is different. Sure we all want to win but at what cost? Counting cards gives you the best chance to win money. However, it takes a lot of patience and attention to count cards correctly.
For some players, the only reason to gamble is to win. For other players, blackjack is entertainment and something to do while hanging out. I fall into the latter category. I’d rather have some drinks, play the best perfect strategy I can, and pay attention to other players than focusing on the count. I may give away some money over time but that’s okay. This is how I enjoy my time at the blackjack table.
Should I Count Cards?
Counting cards won’t guarantee that you will win playing blackjack. However, learning this skill should help prolong how long your bankroll lasts. This will give you more time to play and have more fun or make a few bucks.
If you’re great multi-tasking maybe you can play correct strategy and enjoy whatever you normally do the table. It’s difficult but not impossible to count cards but it’s really up to how you want to spend your time and money.
