Blackjack is a casino game in which players compete against the dealer. The objective is to get a hand total closer to 21 than the dealer’s without going over. This can be done by hitting, splitting, or surrendering. The game also allows players to make side bets on the outcome of a dealt hand, known as insurance or insurance bets. It’s important to know how these bets work and what the house edge is before you play.
The game begins when a player places a bet in one of the betting spots on the table. The dealer then deals each player and himself two cards. Each card is worth its printed value; face cards are worth 10 and numbered cards count as their numbers. An ace can be worth either 1 or 11. The player can then choose to hit (accept another card) or stand (not accept any more cards). If the player’s initial card total is 21 then the player wins; however, if it goes over 21, then the player busts and loses his bet.
A player can make multiple hands per round if there are enough empty spots on the table. When making a wager, the player should place the correct chips in each betting spot. Usually, cash is not used to make bets; rather, casinos will change your money into chips for you. Players should be careful not to accidentally make double-bets or other errors that could cost them their entire bankroll.
If the dealer has a blackjack, the player automatically loses the hand. If the dealer has a blackjack and any of the player’s hands have a total of 21, then the hand is a push (the players receive their original bet back) or a tie (each player gets their bet back and the hand is replayed).
Regardless of the dealer’s upcard, the player should always hit with a soft 17 against any dealer. The only exception is if the dealer is showing an ace. In that case, the player should stand instead.
The best way to increase your odds of winning is by practicing, setting a bankroll, and following the basic strategy. This will give you the best chance of beating the dealer.
Many blackjack players fail to pay attention to the game and their own hand. This is inexcusable, but both dealers and players can be distracted by reasonable things. For instance, a cocktail waitress might walk by or an announcement may be made over the PA system.