Blackjack Basic Strategy
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Complete Blackjack Basic Strategy Guide
What is Basic Strategy?
Basic strategy is the mathematically optimal way to play every possible hand in blackjack. Developed through computer simulations of millions of hands, it represents the statistically best decision for every combination of player hand and dealer upcard. When followed correctly, basic strategy reduces the house edge to its minimum possible level.
The strategy is based on probability theory and expected value calculations. Each decision (hit, stand, double, split) is determined by comparing the mathematical expectation of all possible actions and choosing the one with the highest expected return.
The Mathematics Behind Basic Strategy
Expected Value Calculations
Every basic strategy decision is based on expected value (EV) - the average amount you can expect to win or lose on a particular play over the long run. The computer calculates the EV for each possible action and recommends the one with the highest value.
Example: Player 16 vs Dealer 10
- Hit EV: -0.54 (lose 54 cents per dollar bet on average)
- Stand EV: -0.77 (lose 77 cents per dollar bet on average)
- Decision: Hit (less negative EV)
Probability Distributions
Basic strategy considers the probability of each possible outcome. For instance, when the dealer shows a 6, they have approximately a 42% chance of busting, making it advantageous for players to stand on lower totals and let the dealer bust.
Action Abbreviations & Meanings
Take another card from the dealer. Use when your hand total is low and the risk of busting is minimal.
Keep your current hand total. Use when your hand is strong enough or when the dealer is likely to bust.
Double your original bet and receive exactly one more card. Use when you have a strong advantage.
Separate a pair into two hands, each with its own bet. Use when splitting gives better EV than playing as one hand.
Forfeit half your bet and end the hand immediately. Use in very unfavorable situations where continuing has worse EV.
Double down if the casino rules allow it, otherwise hit. Common when doubling is optimal but not permitted.
Benefits of Using Basic Strategy
Minimize House Edge
Reduces the casino's advantage to approximately 0.5% - one of the best odds in any casino game.
Consistent Decision Making
Eliminates guesswork and emotional decisions, providing a systematic approach to every hand.
Foundation for Advanced Play
Essential prerequisite for card counting and other advantage play techniques.
Long-term Profitability
Maximizes your expected return and minimizes losses over extended play sessions.
Rule Variations & Adjustments
Basic strategy can vary slightly depending on specific casino rules. Here are the most important rule variations that affect optimal play:
Dealer Hits Soft 17
When the dealer must hit on soft 17 (A-6), it increases the house edge by about 0.2%. This affects some doubling and surrender decisions.
Double After Split (DAS)
Allowing doubling after splitting pairs is favorable to the player and affects splitting strategy for certain pairs like 2s, 3s, 6s, and 7s.
Surrender Rules
Early surrender (before dealer checks for blackjack) is very favorable. Late surrender is less beneficial but still reduces the house edge when used correctly.
Number of Decks
Single deck games are most favorable to players, while 8-deck shoes increase the house edge. Strategy adjustments are minimal but exist for certain borderline hands.
Learning & Memorization Tips
Start with the Basics
- Always split Aces and 8s
- Never split 10s, 5s, or 4s
- Always hit on 11 or less
- Always stand on hard 17 or more
Practice Progression
- Master hard hands first (most common situations)
- Learn soft hands (Ace combinations)
- Study pair splitting decisions
- Add surrender rules if available
Memory Techniques
- Use flashcards for difficult combinations
- Practice with online trainers daily
- Focus on dealer bust cards (2-6) vs. strong cards (7-A)
- Understand the logic behind each decision
Hard Hands Strategy
Hard hands are hands without an Ace, or hands where the Ace counts as 1. Click on any cell to see the reasoning behind the decision.
| Player Hand |
2
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3
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4
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5
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6
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7
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8
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9
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10
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A
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Soft Hands Strategy
Soft hands contain an Ace that can be counted as 11 without busting. These hands offer more flexibility in your playing decisions.
| Player Hand | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | A |
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Pairs Strategy
When you're dealt a pair, you have the option to split them into two separate hands. Use this chart to determine when splitting is the optimal play.
| Player Pair | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | A |
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