Blackjack is one of the most popular casino card games available to UK players. Many believe it’s not entirely luck-based and that specific strategies can determine the outcomes. One of those strategies is the Blackjack Chart. I examine the chart’s intricacies and how players can decode it.
Basic Blackjack Rules
Blackjack is a game that you play against the dealer instead of other players. The goal is to have the hand closest to 21 without exceeding it. If you get a hand equal to exactly 21, then it’s a blackjack. Players only get two cards, and they can usually see one of the dealer’s cards.Â
The other dealer card will be facedown, and players can complete a range of options before they continue playing. Before you start using a basic blackjack strategy chart, familiarising yourself with the terms is a good idea.
Standard Game Actions
The following game actions are possible in blackjack:
- Hit: The player asks for another card.
- Stand: The player keeps their current hand.
- Double Down: The player doubles their bet while receiving another card.
- Split: Two of the same cards can split into separate hands, with the new hand having a bet equal to your initial stake.
- Surrender: The player surrenders half of their initial stake to withdraw if they believe their hand will lose.
What’s a Blackjack Chart?
A 2018 survey shows blackjack is the most popular casino card game. Over decades of playing, experts have devised the ultimate strategies for the game, such as the blackjack chart. This tool determines your game’s best strategy and actions based on your hand and the dealer’s card.Â
Still, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding how it works before using it is crucial. I know the chart can look intimidating; I had the same thought when I first saw it.Â
Once you understand the basics, it becomes easier and easier. Some mathematical equations and nuances might increase your predictive knowledge. However, always remember that it’ll never guarantee a win.
Basic Layout
This chart is a type of matrix diagram with rows and columns detailing a series of game moves you can make. You’ll start using it after you receive your two cards and see what the dealer’s faceup card is. Two broader rows, one vertical and one horizontal, will show you your possible hand and the dealer’s faceup card.Â
You find your hand’s value, follow the row/column to the dealer’s faceup card value, and see what action the chart recommends. On a chart, you’ll find the following elements:
- Rows: The left-side rows will show the player’s possible hands, while the right-side rows will show the dealer’s possible card and recommended actions. There are 26 sub-rows depicting actions.
- Columns: The player’s hand section will have one column that offers their possible hands. The dealer’s card value will have 10 sub-columns, one for each possible hand value.
- Actions: The strategy chart often shortens the possible actions. As such, the following refers to:
-
- H – Hit
- S – Stand
- Dh – Double (if impossible, then hit)
- Ds – Double (if impossible, then stand)
- P – Split your pair of cards into two hands
- Ph – Split (if possible after a double; otherwise hit)
- Rs – Surrender (if impossible, then stand)
- Rp – Surrender (if impossible, then split)
- Colours: The charts also often use colours to indicate the various actions:
- Green – Hit
- Red – Stand
- Blue – Double Down
- Yellow – Split
- Orange – Surrender
Understanding Blackjack Charts
Blackjack charts might seem like they hold all the answers. However, in my experience, knowing how to read them isn’t all that it takes. You must also consider the game’s nuances.
Understand the Layout
The first step to decoding a chart is to know its layout. Various free charts are available online, so I recommend downloading one and familiarising yourself with it. Create imaginary scenarios to see how to use it and get a feel for the chart.
Adapt to Variations
There are multiple types of charts, each specific to a particular game variant. Ensure that the chart you’re using fits the game you’re playing. For example, it’s only particular variations that allow surrendering. As such, if the game doesn’t allow that action, don’t play with a chart that lists surrenders.
How to Make Decisions
Once you have your hand, find the applicable row that shows your hand, let’s say H 12. Then, cross-reference it using the dealer’s faceup card value to see what action the intersecting cell states.
Practice, Practice, Practice
In the beginning, this chart might feel like a crutch that you always keep close as you play. However, I find that as time goes on, you start internalising the different actions and strategies. Later on, you won’t even need to refer to it often.
The Ultimate Blackjack Strategy
The blackjack chart isn’t the ultimate strategy in that it guarantees a win. It’s the ultimate strategy because you can adapt it to any game variation. It also helps new players familiarise themselves with the gameplay. However, always gamble responsibly, only using money you can afford to lose.