Simply put, a blackjack strategy chart details basic strategy for blackjack players. Since there are different variations of blackjack, there are also slight variations to the different basic strategies that players can use. This is represented in the various strategy charts. This article will provide you with a link to a commonly used blackjack strategy chart and explain how you can understand and use the chart effectively in your blackjack game.
A blackjack strategy chart is a simple chart that displays the correct move that a player should make based on the player's hand of cards and the dealer's face card. The basic moves allowed in blackjack are Stand, Hit, Double Down, Split and Surrender. Learning basic strategy is as simple as memorizing all the possible card scenarios and the moves to make for each one.
Analyzing the chart may seem complicated if you are new to the game, but it's actually quite simple. Typically in the far left column, the value of the player's hand will be listed. The dealer's face cards will then be listed across the top of the chart. The remainder of the chart is filled with all the possible moves that the player can make.
Often blackjack strategy charts will list the player's moves using letters and color-coded boxes. The colors make it easier to distinguish each letter. Most charts use the first letter or two from each word to signify the move that the player should make (e.g. H = Hit, S = Stand, D = Double Down, Sp = Split, Su = Surrender). Not all charts are the same though.
This chart details basic strategy for a game of blackjack with the following common rules:
1. 4 to 8 decks
2. Dealer stands on soft 17
3. Double down on any 2 cards
4. Double down after split allowed
5. Only original bets lost on dealer blackjack
6. Late surrender
There is no doubt that following a blackjack strategy chart will improve your chances at the tables. It won't however guarantee you will win. Even if you follow basic strategy perfectly, you will still win less than 50% of the time in the long run.
You can find a number of different blackjack charts on the internet for free use. Obviously if you are going to a casino, you'll have to memorize the chart. For online casinos, though, you can refer to them as you are playing. By strictly following the strategies listed on a Blackjack strategy chart, you can decrease the casino's overall edge and increase your chances of winning.