Learn the reason behind the move
Blackjack rules, clearly explained
Learn card values, the dealer’s turn and the actions you can take. Then check the table conditions that change the strategy.
Card values and the aim of the hand
Number cards keep their value, face cards count as 10 and an ace can count as 1 or 11. You play against the dealer. Going over 21 is a bust. A two-card ace plus a ten-value card is a natural blackjack; a later total of 21 is a different outcome.
Blackjack rules and actions ↗Hit, stand, double, split and surrender
Hit asks for another card; stand ends your draw. Doubling adds an equal stake and normally gives one more card. Splitting separates an eligible pair into two hands with another stake. Surrender, when offered, ends an eligible hand for a partial loss. Each action has timing and eligibility rules.
Dealer procedures ↗The dealer follows a fixed rule
The dealer does not choose strategy in the same way as the player. The table states whether soft 17 is hit or stood on. In a peek game, the dealer checks for blackjack with the relevant upcard before the player continues. No-hole-card games can change the risk of added stakes.
Blackjack rule variations ↗Read the blackjack payout
A 3:2 natural blackjack pays $15 profit on a $10 bet; 6:5 pays $12 on that same bet. These figures are profit, not the returned stake. Other wins, ties and split-hand outcomes follow the particular rules. Do not confuse a blackjack payout ratio with the chance of winning.
