Seemingly endless charts and strategies have been developed based on the number of decks used in a particular Blackjack game, the number of players, how far along the game has progressed, and other factors. However, a few easy-to-remember strategies can see you through most basic Blackjack situations:
When to Stand: Always stand with 17 or higher
When to Hit: If the dealer shows a card of 7 or higher, always hit if your hand totals 12 to 16 or less than 8.
When to Double Down: Always double down when your cards total 11; when the dealer shows a 9 or lower and your cards total 10; or when the dealer shows 6 or lower and your cards total 9.
When to Split: Always split Aces and 8s, regardless of what the dealer shows; always split 2s and 3s if the dealer shows a 4 through 7.
When Not to Split: Never split 5s, 10s, Jacks, Queens, or Kings.
When to Surrender: If this is an option, only surrender when your odds of winning are under 25 percent: When your hand totals “15” and the dealer shows a 10; or when your hand totals “16” and the dealer shows a 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, or Ace.
