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Blackjack Basic Strategy

Betfortune
(Updated on )

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games worldwide—and for good reason. It’s fast, easy to learn, and if you play with the correct strategy, you’ll maximize your chances of success. At Betfortune, we believe that knowledge is your best bet. Below, we’ll walk you through a clear and concise overview of blackjack basic strategy, why memorizing the charts matters, and what your next steps should be if you want to truly beat the house.

Why Basic Strategy Matters

Think of basic strategy like the rocket booster that propels a space shuttle. It gets you off the ground, but it won’t get you all the way into orbit. Basic strategy cuts down the house edge by teaching you the statistically best move to make in every situation—whether it’s hitting, standing, doubling down, splitting, or surrendering. While basic strategy alone won’t guarantee you profits in the long run (you’ll need card counting, deviations, and betting strategies for that), it’s the necessary foundation for any serious blackjack player.

Common Misconception

Many players download a blackjack chart, use it for a couple of sessions, and assume they’ve cracked the code. They might win a few hands—perhaps even walk away with a profit—but randomness is not the same as a true edge. Over time, the house edge will usually catch up to you if you rely on luck alone. By memorizing basic strategy perfectly, you minimize mistakes and improve your overall odds.

The Four Core Decisions in Blackjack

1. Surrender (If Allowed)

If a casino offers late surrender (LS), you can forfeit your hand to save half your bet—but only on your first two cards. Surrender is the very first decision you should consider. If the situation calls for surrender, do it immediately. If not, move on to the next decision.

2. Split Pairs

Splitting applies when you have two cards of the same value. Certain pairs—like Aces—are always best split, while others—like 10s—should never be split. Make sure you memorize which pairs to split and when, as outlined in our chart.

3. Double Down

Doubling down can be a huge advantage because you’re increasing your bet at the most favorable times. When the strategy chart calls for it, it typically means you have a strong probability of winning. Be sure you check first whether the casino rules allow doubling on specific totals (some casinos restrict doubling on soft totals).

4. Hit or Stand

If none of the above options apply, your final decision is whether to hit or stand. The chart will tell you exactly what to do based on your total and the dealer’s up card.

Blackjack Basic Strategy Chart: 30 Simple Phrases

Below is a concise overview of all the essential rules. These “bite-sized” statements can help you memorize strategy faster. Note that these guidelines assume a “Hit Soft 17 (H17)” game—common in most casinos.

Surrender

  1. 16 surrenders against dealer 9, 10, or Ace, otherwise don’t surrender.
  2. 15 surrenders against dealer 10, otherwise don’t surrender.

Splits

  1. Always split Aces.
  2. Never split 10s.
  3. 9s split against dealer 2–9 (except 7), otherwise stand.
  4. Always split 8s.
  5. 7s split against dealer 2–7, otherwise hit.
  6. 6s split against dealer 2–6, otherwise hit.
  7. 5s double against dealer 2–9, otherwise hit.
  8. 4s split against dealer 5–6, otherwise hit.
  9. 3s split against dealer 2–7, otherwise hit.
  10. 2s split against dealer 2–7, otherwise hit.

Soft Totals

(An Ace counts as 11 if it doesn’t bust your hand.)

  1. Soft 20 (A,9): Always stand.
  2. Soft 19 (A,8): Double against dealer 6, otherwise stand.
  3. Soft 18 (A,7): Double against dealer 2–6, hit against 9–Ace, otherwise stand.
  4. Soft 17 (A,6): Double against dealer 3–6, otherwise hit.
  5. Soft 16 (A,5): Double against dealer 4–6, otherwise hit.
  6. Soft 15 (A,4): Double against dealer 4–6, otherwise hit.
  7. Soft 14 (A,3): Double against dealer 5–6, otherwise hit.
  8. Soft 13 (A,2): Double against dealer 5–6, otherwise hit.

Hard Totals

(A hand without an Ace, or with an Ace that’s forced to count as 1.)

  1. 17+: Always stand.
  2. 16: Stand against dealer 2–6, otherwise hit.
  3. 15: Stand against dealer 2–6, otherwise hit.
  4. 14: Stand against dealer 2–6, otherwise hit.
  5. 13: Stand against dealer 2–6, otherwise hit.
  6. 12: Stand against dealer 4–6, otherwise hit.
  7. 11: Always double.
  8. 10: Double against dealer 2–9, otherwise hit.
  9. 9: Double against dealer 3–6, otherwise hit.
  10. 8: Always hit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is basic strategy based on?

Basic strategy comes from computer simulations that play millions of blackjack hands to find the statistically best move in each situation. It represents the choices that will lose the least money over time. While it won’t beat the house edge on its own, it’s the critical first step for more advanced tactics like card counting.

2. Why do some charts differ from others?

Different charts may assume different rules—like whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17 (H17 vs. S17) or the number of decks in the shoe. We focus on a single chart geared toward H17 multi-deck games, which are very common. After learning one chart thoroughly, you can adjust for rule variations and add game-specific deviations.

3. How do I memorize all this?

Memorizing basic strategy perfectly requires intentional practice. Write the rules out, drill with flashcards, or use our free mini course and blank strategy sheets. Repetition is key. Keep practicing until you can recall every decision instantly, even in a noisy, distracting casino environment.

4. I only miss a rule every once in a while. Am I ready for the casino?

In blackjack, perfect really does mean perfect—especially if you aspire to gain the full advantage possible through advanced techniques like card counting. If you miss even one decision in practice, chances are higher you’ll miss more in a real casino under pressure. Stick with the drills until your accuracy is 100%.

Next Steps: Beyond Basic Strategy

To truly beat the game of blackjack, you’ll need more than just basic strategy:

  • Card Counting: Learn how to track the ratio of high to low cards remaining in the shoe.
  • True Count Conversions: Adjust your decisions based on the deck or shoe size.
  • Deviations: Alter your play based on the running or true count (for instance, stand on 16 vs. 10 in certain high-count situations).
  • Bet Sizing Strategy: Bet more when the deck is hot and less when it’s cold.

Once you master these skills, you can turn blackjack from a break-even game (with basic strategy) into a profitable endeavor. Different regions and casinos have rules like “European No-Hole” Blackjack or “Stand on Soft 17” variations—each requiring subtle tweaks to your strategy. The good news is that once you have a solid grasp of basic strategy, these adjustments become much easier.

Final Thoughts from Betfortune

Here at Betfortune, we believe in an approach that’s both practical and straightforward. Our blackjack strategy chart is built with the most common game variations in mind—focusing on multi-deck, H17 tables. Whether you’re playing in Las Vegas, at your local casino, or online, this chart will serve you well.

Ready to start your journey? Drill these rules daily until they become second nature. Then, when you’re truly perfect with basic strategy, take the plunge into the more advanced topics like card counting and bet variation. With the right tools, practice, and discipline, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a formidable player at the blackjack tables.

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Good luck at the tables—and remember: perfect means perfect!

By Betfortune: Your trusted partner for mastering blackjack and beyond.