The game of blackjack is a card game where players try to get as close to 21 as possible without going over (busting). The dealer gives each player two cards. The first thing to remember is that the Ace can count as either 1 or 11, and the Jack, Queen, or King counts as 10.
When you have a hand that totals less than 21, you can ask for another card (hit). You should hit only when your cards can improve your chance of getting closer to 21 than the dealer’s. Otherwise, you’re wasting your money.
You can also double down when you have a soft hand that can beat the dealer’s up card, such as soft 13 through 18. If your soft hand has a count of 17 or more, don’t bother to double it. However, you should always consider doubling down on soft hands when the dealer is showing a weak up card, such as an ace or a 10.
If your first two cards are an Ace and a ten-value card, you have a blackjack. This is called a “natural” and pays 3:2 on your initial wager. You can only have one natural per round. If you have a natural and the dealer has a non-natural, you win one-time your initial wager. Ties are a push and you keep your original bet amount.
The basic blackjack strategy is easy to learn and remember, and it will almost always be the right play. There are different charts for each type of blackjack game, and you can print them out to use at the table. However, it’s better to learn them one at a time, as the other players will get annoyed if you constantly refer to your charts during their turn.
Blackjack is a fast-paced game with lots of action and high probability. While there are some players who can get lucky streaks, most of them have to work hard at it. The most important thing to remember is that you should never lose your confidence. Even if you have a losing streak, your odds don’t change for the next hand.
As a blackjack dealer, you will work in shifts and may need to be on duty for long hours, including evenings and weekends. You will be exposed to secondhand tobacco smoke and fumes and will interact with casino patrons regularly. Typical job duties include collecting and processing players’ bets, verifying winnings, and distributing payouts. In addition, you will need to perform a variety of manual tasks, such as reaching and moving objects. Lastly, you will need to follow the company’s policies and procedures for dealing with player complaints and other issues. You must be able to communicate in a clear, articulate manner and handle pressure well. In addition, you will be responsible for a minimum wage of $8 per hour plus tips. Some casinos offer additional benefits, such as health insurance and free food. In some cases, a casino may provide special training for new dealers.