How to Count Cards in Blackjack – Great Tips

Blackjack has become a casino game that cannot be missed. To win this casino game, you need to have all the elements. How to count cards in Blackjack is the strategy that helps you beat your opponents. Is counting cards in Blackjack really effective, and how to apply it correctly? Let’s find out with JL7 ​​right after this.

How to Count Cards in Blackjack – Overview

Card counting is the skill of keeping track of the cards that have come out of the deck during the game. The goal is to determine the probability of the remaining cards appearing, thereby making more reasonable decisions when to hit, stand, double, or bet big.

Unlike other games that rely solely on luck, Blackjack is a rare card game where you can reduce the house edge if you count cards skillfully.

Why Is Card Counting Effective in Blackjack?

The reason is simple: Blackjack cards are not reshuffled after each hand like many other games. This means that the cards that have come out will not come back in the next hand, and if you know the number of low or high cards remaining, you can guess whether you or the dealer has the advantage.

For example, if the deck has a lot of 10s, Js, Qs, Ks, and A’s, the player’s chances of having a “natural Blackjack” are higher, meaning you can raise your bet bigger and have a higher chance of winning.

Basic Card Counting – Hi-Lo System

Hi-Lo is the most popular card counting system, easy to learn for beginners. Each card is assigned a value as follows:

– Cards from 2 to 6 are counted as +1
– Cards 7, 8, 9 are counted as 0 (neutral)
– Cards 10, J, Q, K, A are counted as -1

When the cards are dealt, you will add and subtract these numbers to get a number called “count points”.

For example, if you see 3 cards are 4, J, and 7, then the total score is: +1 (4) – 1 (J) + 0 (7) = 0.

A positive count means there are more high cards in the deck → the advantage is in favor of the player. A negative count means there are more low cards → the dealer is more likely to win.

True Count – Adjusted by the Number of Decks

If you are playing at a table with more than 1 deck (usually 6 or 8), you need to divide the current count by the number of decks left undealt, called “True Count”.

For example: the count is +8, there are about 4 decks left → True Count = 8 / 4 = 2.

The higher the True Count, the bigger the bet you should make.

When to Use the Card Counting Strategy

The card counting strategy should be applied from the first rounds to accumulate information. However, do not rush to place big bets without enough data. Only when the count remains at a high and stable positive level for a few rounds should you start increasing your bets.

Also, you should choose tables with fewer players to make it easier to keep track of the cards, and ideally play at tables with 1-2 decks.

How to Count Cards in Blackjack Effectively

First, practice the Hi-Lo system until it becomes second nature. You should practice using online simulation tools or using real decks at home.

Next, practice your ability to concentrate without being obvious. If the dealer sees you watching the cards too closely or betting too erratically, you may be asked to leave the table.

A small tip is to keep your bets fluctuating slightly, don’t double up suddenly, and occasionally lose intentionally to maintain the image of a “normal player”.

Finally, remember that counting cards doesn’t guarantee absolute victory – it just gives you an advantage in the long run.

Common Blackjack Card Counting Mistakes

Not updating the correct count after each hand is the first mistake. Many people forget to add and subtract when focusing on their cards.

Another mistake is raising bets too early. When only a few cards have been played, there is not enough information to decide to raise.

In addition, many people confuse the count with the true count – leading to miscalculation of probabilities and betting at the wrong time.