Blackjack is a card game where players compete against the dealer. The player may ask for more cards (hit) or stay with his or her current hand (stand). If the player has a hand totaling 21 or higher, he or she wins. The dealer must hit until he or she has 17 or more points, or bust.
A player’s best bet is a pair of tens. However, splitting them is risky and should be done only when the dealer shows a weak card, such as an ace or 10. It’s also advisable to double down on a hard hand against a dealer showing a 10, but you must always be aware of how many chips you are risking.
In the US, casinos have varying rules on splits and double downs, so check before you play. You should also be familiar with basic strategy, which tells you what to do based on the value of your hand and the dealer’s card. These charts won’t be 100% perfect, but they’ll minimize the house edge.
To become a blackjack dealer, you need to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need basic math skills and good hand-eye coordination. In addition, you can attend a casino dealing course to learn the necessary skills for the job. The training typically lasts between eight and 12 weeks.
During a game of blackjack, the cards are dealt from a shoe that holds multiple decks. The shoe is shuffled frequently, and the decks are replaced at regular intervals. This helps to keep the odds in favor of the dealer.
A blackjack dealer’s main responsibilities include managing the table and providing excellent customer service. He or she must also be able to count cards, which gives the dealer an advantage over the players. Some dealers even practice card counting in their spare time to improve their skills.
Blackjack is a fun and exciting game that requires mental alertness, quick decisions, and strong hand-eye coordination. The most successful blackjack players are those who make smart bets and avoid taking unnecessary risks. They know that the big money comes from doubling down and splitting pairs of weak hands, rather than hitting on a ten-ace hand. They also realize that they must pay the dealer for insurance if they have a blackjack, and they should never bet against the dealer when they have an ace.