Blackjack is one of the easiest casino games to learn. Its rules are relatively straightforward, although there are a few important nuances to master as a dealer. Dealers often complete a blackjack program at a gaming school funded by a casino or as part of a vocational program. Programs typically last six weeks and teach students dealer etiquette and the rules of the game.
During a blackjack hand, the player and dealer are dealt two cards each. If the player’s first two cards add up to 21 or higher, they win. The player can hit (ask for another card), stand, double down or split the cards. It is recommended that players never split 10s, but they should double down on 11 if the dealer’s face-up card is 9 or lower.
The dealer will then check her hole card, which is a window into the table’s back-up deck. If she has a ten underneath, she has a blackjack and will pay everyone their original bets. She will also collect any insurance wagers. If the dealer does not have a blackjack, the hand is a push.
Some players use counting systems to improve their chances of beating the dealer. These systems count the concentration of aces and 10s in the deck and make adjustments accordingly. However, they should be careful not to rely on these methods too much. Counters must keep in mind that the dealer has an advantage, too.
In some casinos, the dealer may offer even money on a blackjack. This is not a true blackjack hand, as the payout is only one-and-a-half times your bet, not the usual 3 to 1. In addition, you lose any side bets.
Depending on the situation, you may wish to hit your hand when it has a value of 17 or more. You should also hit when your hand value is 12 or 16 and the dealer’s face-up card is 7 or higher. However, you should not hit when your hand value is 8 or less because it is unlikely to beat the dealer’s blackjack. Also, you should not hit when your hand is 17 or more and the dealer has a face-up card of 10 or higher.