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Basic BlackJack Rules

By Ann MacDonald

Blackjack is one of the most popular games, both at online and physical casinos. Blackjack is a fun game with some of the best gambling odds that casino games offer. However, while most people know the goal of blackjack is to get to "21" with the cards, many people do not know the details of blackjack's rules. This primer will get you started with everything you need to know to play this table game.

Blackjack objective

Unlike poker, which is played against other people, blackjack is a game played against the dealer. Each player wants to get a hand of cards that equals a point total of 21, or as close as possible without exceeding it. The dealer is also striving to hit 21, although he is subject to certain constraints. So, each hand, a player wins or loses based on comparing his cards to the dealer and seeing who has the better hand, without exceeding 21.

Blackjack rules basics

The dealer gives each player and himself two cards. In most games, the players' cards are dealt face up. One of the dealer's cards is dealt face up and the other is hidden.

Each card is counted for points equal to the number shown on the card. Jacks, queens and kings all count as ten points and the ace may be counted as a one or an 11, whichever is more to the player's advantage.

If a player is dealt a "blackjack" – any 10 and an ace – the hand is an automatic win unless the dealer has an exposed Ace. With any other hand, the player is given the option to hit, drawing more cards, or stand, keeping his existing hand in the hopes that it is either higher than the dealer's hand or that the dealer will "bust" (exceed a point total of 21).

Once all the players at the table have chosen to hit or stand, the dealer takes a turn. He exposes his hole card. If his cards equal 16 points or fewer, he needs to hit and take more cards. In most games, the dealer must also hit a "soft 17" which is a six and an ace and may be counted as a seven or a seventeen.

When to hit or stand

Players may draw as many cards as they like, until they have met or exceeded 21. However, since busting is an instant loss, the object is to get closer to 21 than the dealer with the lowest risk of exceeding 21. Discerning players pay attention to the odds and judge not only the likelihood of getting the cards they need, but also the likelihood of the dealer getting various cards.

For example, if a player has a twelve and the dealer has an eight showing, the player should draw a card. Why? Since 10 is statistically the most likely card for the dealer's hidden card, it must be assumed that the dealer has an 18. Since the player has a 12, the odds are that the player will lose. In addition, since any card except a 10 will improve the player's hand and not cause him to lose, this is statistically the best move. Yes, he could bust with a ten, or the dealer could have a nine in the hole, but over the long term the playing the statistics will help you achieve your best success.

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