Blackjack is a card game in which players compete with the dealer for a high total of cards. Each round begins with two cards being dealt to each player and the dealer. The player can choose to ask for additional cards, stick with their current hand (stay), or surrender. The goal of the player is to get as close to 21 as possible without going over. If a player’s hand is better than the dealer’s, the player wins and gets paid 1 to 2 times their initial wager.

A basic strategy chart is a great way to practice the correct moves in blackjack, and help minimize the house’s advantage. The chart provides a roadmap for making the right decisions in every situation, including splitting pairs and standing vs. standing against a dealer’s ace. The chart is available for free, and can be printed so that it’s easy to refer to when playing at a casino.

Effective bankroll management is a key aspect of blackjack success. Players should predetermine how much they are willing to risk on each hand and limit their losses to that amount. This avoids emotional decisions and financial stress when the player loses. It is generally recommended that players should bet no more than one to two percent of their total bankroll per hand.

The dealer will reveal their hole card once all of the players have completed their turn. If the dealer has a ten underneath, they will have a blackjack and will pay all insurance bets at odds of 2 to 1. If they don’t, the game continues like normal.

When to double down in blackjack: A good time to consider doubling down is when your first two cards equal 10 or 11, and you have an opportunity for another card that will boost the value of your hand to 20 or 21. It is also a good idea to double down when the dealer has a weak card showing, such as a five or six.

Splitting pairs: A good time to split a pair of cards is when they are of the same rank, such as two eights or two threes. You place a second bet that is equal to your original bet, and play each card as a separate hand. It is also a good idea to split against pairs of fours, fives, sixes, and threes.

When the dealer shows a seven, you should always split against them. In general, split against all other hands except a nine. Also, never split against a dealer with a ten. This can result in a big loss. A win limit is a good practice, as it will force you to stop playing when your losses exceed the set limit. It will also prevent you from chasing your losses, which can lead to a huge loss and possibly even bankruptcy. Ultimately, this will make you a more responsible and disciplined gambler. You can find many different methods for setting a win limit, but a simple way to remember it is by counting the number of times you’ve won a hand.