Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games and, at least in theory, it’s the only table game where a player can beat the house. In reality, there are a number of factors that can impact a hand’s outcome and the odds of winning. To improve your chances of success, master basic strategy and employ effective bankroll management techniques.

A blackjack game starts when players place bets in the betting circle. The dealer then deals each player two cards, face up. The player to his or her left begins the hand. A player may then decide to stand, hit, double down, or take insurance (a bet that the dealer has a 10-value card in the hole to complete a blackjack). The insurance bet is typically made for half of the original bet and pays 2-1 if the dealer has a blackjack.

The goal of the game is to get closer to 21 than the dealer. If your hand is better than the dealer’s, you win. Ties are a push, and you’re paid out at even money unless the dealer has a blackjack, in which case you’re paid out at 3 to 2.

Some players have developed specialized rules for the game. These may vary slightly from the official rules, but they usually affect the probability of winning a hand. For example, many players count cards in an attempt to gain an edge over the dealer. While such systems are not foolproof, they can reduce the house edge by a significant amount.

Many novices play the game too conservatively and fail to exploit their opportunities for winning hands. They hesitate to hit 16 against a dealer’s 7 or split a pair of 2s against a dealer’s 4. This gives more money to the house than it needs to. Expert players, on the other hand, take advantage of every opportunity to maximize their wins by hitting and splitting as often as possible.

Blackjack can be played with anywhere from one to eight decks of cards. The aces have a value of 1 to 11, the cards from 2 to 9 have their pip values, and the tens are worth ten points. In addition, the dealers’ up-card can be used to help make decisions on whether or not to stand.

If you’re ready to give the game a try, find a blackjack table with an open seat and join in. Normally, a blackjack table seats five to seven players. However, it’s important to note that some casinos have a “No-Midshoe Entry” policy and only allow players to sit at empty tables. It’s also a good idea to check the blackjack table’s betting limits before entering the game, as this can impact your overall bankroll. A well-established betting limit will keep you from making emotional decisions that could lead to a loss. You can also use a bankroll tracker to help you manage your bets. It’s recommended that you play a maximum of two percent of your total bankroll per hand to ensure optimal control over your bets.