In Blackjack, you need to beat the dealer in order to win. If the player and dealer both bust, the game is called a “push” and neither wins. A push happens when both players have the same point value, which means neither wins or loses. Because each player has an independent game with the dealer, it’s possible for the dealer to lose to one or more players. However, this rarely happens. This article will cover Basic strategy as well as Side bets, Insurance, and the Dealer’s hole card.

Basic strategy

One of the most crucial aspects of blackjack is the use of basic strategy, which involves assuming the dealer’s up-card is a 10. A jack, queen or king are all worth ten points. Aces are worth one point and count as 11. A basic strategy chart will help you decide the best course of action for any given hand. Learn when to hit, stand, double-down, and split. The following basic blackjack strategy chart will guide you through the process.

Side bets

When playing blackjack, many casinos offer optional side bets. Although the house edge is higher for these side bets, they can provide extra winnings. Additionally, side bets allow you to spread your bets over a smaller number of hands. While side bets do not constitute a strategy in and of themselves, they can increase your chances of winning. Here are some examples of side bets.

Insurance

When betting on blackjack, you may have the option to place an insurance bet, which pays off in two to one odds. This bet is available only when the dealer’s upcard is an Ace and the player has a total of 15 or more, and the player believes that the second card will give them a Blackjack. The insurance option is available online only, and you can find the insurance icon by clicking the “insurance” and “Even Money” icons.

Dealer’s hole card

The term “hole card” is used throughout poker and blackjack games to refer to the dealer’s face-down card. In standard blackjack variations, the dealer is dealt two cards, one of which is a face-up card and the other is the dealer’s “hole” card. The dealer peeks at the hole card to see if he has a blackjack and then makes his decision based on that information.

Pushing on soft seventeen

While playing blackjack, you should consider whether or not you should push on soft seventeen. This hand situation has a high probability of going against your basic strategy, but it is not as easy as it may seem. In online and land-based casinos, you’ll find that the rules for hitting on soft seventeen are slightly different. In order to decide whether you should push on soft seventeen, you should know the best way to execute it.

Surrendering

Blackjack surrendering is a good strategy to use when the odds are clearly against you. However, if you are dealt two aces, you shouldn’t surrender. In this case, splitting the cards will increase your chances of winning. Moreover, all sites mentioned below allow you to practice blackjack surrendering for free or for real money. While most of the sites only allow late surrender, the top three offer both options. So, before you start playing blackjack, read about the advantages and disadvantages of late surrender.