Blackjack is one of the most enduringly popular casino card games. Players strive to outwit their dealer by creating a hand totaling closer to 21 than theirs; counting cards helps in this endeavor as players decide when and whether or not to draw more cards or stop. A strategy chart can assist players in making informed decisions in each situation.

Blackjack begins by dealing two cards to each player and one face up card to the dealer. If your first two cards add up to 21 (an ace and 10 value card), that means you have Blackjack! If they do not, however, then either hit for additional cards (hit) or stand with what is currently held (stand). After making your decision about action, the dealer will draw more cards until their hand reaches 17 or higher and your hand becomes invalid.

Splitting pairs in blackjack is an excellent way to increase your odds of victory, particularly against dealers showing weak cards such as fours or sixes. When your starting two cards form a pair such as two nines or threes, split them by placing an equal second bet equal to your original wager on each new hand after splitting, and play each individually – this strategy works especially well against weak dealers such as fours or sixes who show weak cards like these fours or sixes as split pairs can often give an upper edge against weak cards like these as it gives an advantage against weak dealer hands who show weak cards like fours or sixes that can give an upper edge over stronger cards when dealing with weak dealer cards like fours or sixes!

The dealer may also have the opportunity to purchase insurance, which pays 2 to 1 on original wager if dealer shows an ace under their hole card. Although buying insurance may seem appealing, its odds are against you and more often than not it ends in loss than profit.

Once all players have taken their turns, the dealer will check his hole card with a viewing window to look for signs of blackjack; if they reveal an ace with an ace ten underneath then all those who purchased insurance will have their original wagers returned as insurance proceeds; otherwise play will continue as usual.

Many variations of blackjack include additional betting options such as Perfect Pairs or 21+3. Unfortunately, these bets typically carry a high house edge and should be avoided. Responsible gambling involves setting a budget to ensure you only gamble with money you can afford to lose and avoiding side bets which may significantly expand your bankroll and raise the risk of mismanaging it.