Blackjack is a card game that involves the player trying to build a hand with a total value as close to 21 as possible without going over. The dealer also gets two cards and must act according to a set of rules. While the game may seem complicated and intimidating, it is actually quite simple. This article outlines the basics of blackjack and provides advice for players on how to improve their chances of winning.

The house edge in blackjack can be 4-5% for a poor player, but it can drop to as low as 0.5% if the player follows a good strategy. A good strategy is to hit when the dealer shows a weak upcard and stand when the dealer shows a strong one. In addition, a player should always split suited cards and double down on pairs of tens or 11s.

A good blackjack dealer must be able to communicate with players clearly. They must be able to explain the game rules and the wagers placed by customers, as well as answer any questions they may have. This communication can be done through verbal or nonverbal cues, such as nodding and paraphrasing what has been said. The best dealers also have active listening skills, which allows them to give their attention to each customer’s thoughts and understand what they are saying.

Another essential part of a good blackjack dealer is the ability to count cards. This is a skill that can be learned, and is often taught in casino dealer schools. In blackjack, the dealer must count their cards in a specific way that ensures that the total of each player’s hands is as accurate as possible. They must also be able to keep track of the number of cards dealt to each player, and they must know when to deal more cards based on that information.

In addition to counting cards, a blackjack dealer must be able to identify when it is beneficial for the players to take Insurance. It is important to remember that the dealer will never have a better expectation than the player, even if the dealer has a blackjack. It is also important to note that the player cannot win by taking Insurance if the dealer has a blackjack, since it pays 2:1 and the dealer’s actual expected value is much closer to 9:4.

There are many ways to become a blackjack dealer, but a high school diploma is typically required. Taking math and foreign language classes at school can help students prepare for the demands of a blackjack dealer position, and they can also look into local casino training programs. These programs can be a great way for students to get hands-on experience in the industry and work towards their career goals. For those who are not able to make the time commitment, there are online blackjack dealer training courses available that can help prepare students for a career in the field.