Counting Cards in Blackjack

Counting cards is easy. Anyone can do it - even a 7 year old. Why? Because card counting does not involve complicated formulas; only adding and subtracting; and once you can do that, then you’re basically all set!

So, how does it work? Cards valued at 7, 8, or 9 count as 0. Cards valued at 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 count as +1. The 10-card, Jacks, Queens, Kings, and Aces count as -1. Begin by betting the table minimum each hand. Bet higher when the count is +5. If the count is high, the decks are left back with high face value cards. If the count is low, the deck is left with low value cards. Use this to determine how much money you will use to bet. It is a good strategy to increase your bets 5 times to every 5 points that the count goes up. If the count goes up to 10, you can get a bit more aggressive and bet the table maximum. Splitting pairs is also a good idea when the count goes above 10.

Be mindful that card counting is only really profitable at Brick and Mortar casinos where the casinos deal out large percentages of cards in the decks. Casinos will ban you if you are suspected of counting cards, so it is a good idea to lose a few hands every now and then to avoid drawing attention to your winning streak.

Although counting cards is no act of genius, it does take practice, because you must be able to keep up with the pace of the game while still counting the cards accurately. Practice your card counting skills at any of our Recommended Online Casinos. Use additional blackjack resources to learn more about card counting and watch videos on how to use card counting software.

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