This is regardless of what the dealer is showing, even though it requires an extra bet.

Split 8s and Aces – It is always best to split a pair of eights or a pair of aces as the starting hand.

This will help you make the most of the situation and maximize winning hands in the long run.

Double Down on 11 – A hard 11, made out of the first two cards you’ve been dealt, is one of the best starting hands in blackjack and you can take advantage of that by doubling down.

Even if the dealer is showing an Ace or 10, it is best to hold the hand than to try improving it further given the small number of cards that can be beneficial.

Stand on 17+ – The first rule in blackjack is to stand on a hard 17, or higher.

To help you get started with the blackjack strategy table, you can take away some key points and incorporate them into your sessions right away. Main Takeaways from Basic Blackjack Strategy It’s best to play games that permit doubling down and surrendering. If doubling down or surrendering isn’t supported in the version of blackjack you are playing, you can simply hit or stand instead. You can stand, split, double down, or surrender. Move to the corresponding position on the right and the box will show you the best possible move for that situation. After you identify this based on the hand you have been dealt, you need to check the dealer’s upcard.

In the leftmost column, you will find your hand, which can be a total value or a particular starting combo of two cards. The blackjack cheat sheet can seem a bit overwhelming at first, but you can quickly understand how it works by consulting solutions for each situation as you play blackjack. If you happen to be in a casino and have not memorized all the plays, you can consult a basic blackjack strategy chart as you play. We recommend printing the basic strategy chart, below, and keeping it in front of you or else simply opening this chart on your computer screen when you play. This is based on the cards you have and on the dealer’s upturned card. It provides an optimal way to play the game, with the correct move for every situation that arises at the table. The first step to learning how to beat blackjack involves becoming familiar with a basic strategy chart.

Short deck best starting hands