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Guides / Table games

IntermediateTable games5 min read

Blackjack basic strategy in five rules

Time saverAlways split aces and eights, never split tens, never take insurance, double 11 against anything but an ace, and stand on hard 17 or higher. Play 3:2 tables only.

Core rules

Hit hard 8 or less. Double hard 10 and 11 against weak upcards. Stand on 12 to 16 against a dealer 2 to 6 (with a few exceptions) and hit against 7 to ace.

Table rules matter

Payout 3:2 beats 6:5 by about 1.4%. Dealer standing on soft 17 helps you by about 0.2%. Surrender and double after split also help.

Practice

Use a free basic strategy trainer until the decisions are automatic. Accuracy is what holds the edge near 0.5%.

Educational content, not financial or legal advice. Gambling involves risk. 18+.

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