Blackjack is a card game that has many variants but at its core it’s all about beating the dealer. You can do this by drawing a hand value that goes over 21 or simply by not losing to the dealer’s blackjack. Getting familiar with the rules is an important step in learning how to play the game. Knowing when to hit, stand, double down or surrender will help you get a feel for the game and avoid costly mistakes that could lead to a big loss.

The rules of blackjack are straightforward enough for most players to understand, but the strategy involved can be a little more complicated. There are many factors to consider, including how much the dealer has in his upcard and whether doubling after splitting is allowed. In addition, the number of decks in play must be taken into account when choosing which strategy to follow.

Brian says that his favorite part of being a blackjack dealer is “being able to connect with people and make them feel comfortable.” He also points out that dealers are often the most knowledgeable about the game, since they must know the game’s history and rules inside out. The game’s long and controversial history has resulted in subtle, but some major, changes to its rules.

There are several strategies that can be used when playing blackjack, but the basic strategy is one of the most effective. This strategy is based on mathematical calculations that have been proven to reduce the casino’s edge over time. In addition to considering the initial cards you have been dealt, this strategy takes into account the dealer’s upcard and the number of decks in play.

Another strategy is card counting, which involves keeping track of the number of cards that have been dealt and adjusting your bet accordingly. It’s difficult to master, but it can give you a considerable advantage over the dealer. If you can count cards, you can increase your bet when the count is positive and decrease it when it’s negative.

If you’re unsure which strategy to follow, look up a blackjack chart that will show you the best move for each situation. This chart can be found on many websites and will take into account the number of cards in play, the dealer’s upcard, and whether doubling or surrendering is available. It will also give you a list of moves to avoid, such as hitting with a soft 18 against a dealer’s ace.

The final thing to remember is to keep your bankroll in mind. It’s easy to lose your money when you play blackjack, so it’s important to set a budget before you start playing. If you’re new to the game, choose a low minimum table and only play with money that you can afford to lose. This way, you won’t be disappointed if you lose some of your chips. If you’re a blackjack enthusiast, try to work up to the highest stakes tables in the casino.