Blackjack is a game of cards that pits the player against the dealer. The dealer is a representative of the casino and has to adhere to a set of rules. While a certain degree of luck comes into play, a good blackjack strategy can reduce the house’s advantage and make the odds more favorable for the player. Using the right moves will also help players maximise how much they win, while minimising their losses.

To get the most out of your blackjack experience, set your betting limits before you sit down to play. This is important for many reasons, not least of all because it helps you to gamble responsibly. It will ensure that you don’t exceed your bankroll and prevent you from chasing your losses in the hope of making more money.

Another important aspect of blackjack strategy is knowing when to hit or stand. Statistically, it is best to hit when your hand value is above 11. This will increase your chances of beating the dealer. However, it is vital to know that hitting may cause you to bust, so if your hand is not at this stage, it is better to stand.

In addition to learning basic strategy, it is also a good idea to study the rules of different blackjack games and variations. This will allow you to select the one that is most appropriate for your gaming style and bankroll. You will also need to understand the different types of bets in blackjack, including side bets like doubling down and splitting.

Once you have a firm grasp of the fundamentals of blackjack, it is time to learn more advanced tactics. While you will not be able to perfect your strategy without deliberate practice, the more you play, the more confident you’ll become at the table. This will lead to greater consistency and ultimately better results.

Another way to improve your skills is to sign up for a blackjack dealer training course. These courses typically take between eight and 12 weeks to complete, and they can give you the hands-on experience you need to land a job in a casino. However, you should be aware that these courses are not always available at every casino.

If you’re serious about becoming a casino blackjack dealer, it’s vital to attend a school that offers an official license to teach the program. This will allow you to work legally in the industry after graduation. In addition, the curriculum can include a foreign language class to develop your communication skills.

In the real world, casinos shuffle and deal the cards well before they’ve used up all the decks in their shoe. That’s why card counting is not practical in live casinos. It is, however, possible to count cards in blackjack by paying attention to the order of the cards that are dealt to the players and the dealer. In this way, you can determine which cards are more valuable and when to hit or stay.