How to Count Cards in Blackjack
Knowing how to count cards in blackjack can be an effective way to improve your chances of winning. However, it is important to note that both casinos and blackjack players disapprove of card counters.
In this guide, we will discuss how to count cards in blackjack, and how it can help you increase your chances of winning.
What is Card Counting?
Card counting in blackjack is a technique used to track the ratio of high to low cards in the deck. High cards (ten, jack, queen, king, and ace) are good for the player, while low cards (two, three, four, five, and six) are bad for the player. If there are more high cards in the deck, the probability of a player getting a blackjack increases, and a blackjack typically pays out at a rate of 3:2.
How to Count Cards in Blackjack?
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to count cards in blackjack and improve your chances of winning. This guide will help you understand the basics of card counting and how to use it to your advantage at the blackjack table.
1. Assign a Point Value to Each Card
Assign a point value to each card based on the following system:
- 2, 3, 4, 5, 6: +1
- 7, 8, 9: 0
- 10, J, Q, K, A: -1
2. Start With a Fresh Deck
Start by practicing with a fresh deck of cards. Shuffle the deck and deal one card at a time, keeping a running count of the cards as you go.
3. Keep a Running Count
While dealing each card, add or subtract its point value from the running count. A positive count signifies that there are more high cards left in the deck, while a negative count indicates more low cards remaining in the deck.
4. Adjust the Count for Multiple Decks
If you are playing with multiple decks, you need to adjust your count by dividing the running count by the number of decks remaining in the shoe. For example, if the running count is +6 and there are two decks left in the shoe, the true count is +3.
5. Use the Count to Make Betting Decisions
Once you have a good count of the cards, you can use it to make betting decisions. When the count is positive, it means that there are more high cards in the deck, and you should increase your bets. When the count is negative, it means that there are more low cards in the deck, and you should decrease your bets.
6. Keep a Low Profile
Casinos do not like card counters, and they will try to detect and ban them. To avoid detection, keep a low profile, and do not make big changes in your betting patterns.
Blackjack Card Counting – Our Final Thoughts
Card counting can be a very effective strategy for increasing your chances of winning at blackjack. By keeping track of the ratio of high to low cards in the deck, you can make better betting decisions and improve your overall odds of winning. However, it takes time and practice to master this technique, so be patient and keep practicing.
