Memorize the Text Version

One of the hardest things about learning basic blackjack strategy is that the chart is filled with abbreviations. If that makes things problematic, then you should try learning the text-based version of the strategy.

I've included one for your convenience. This strategy assumes that 4 to 8 decks are being used, surrender is allowed, and the dealer stands on a soft 17.

Begin at the top of the list and follow the first rule that applies to your situation:

Surrender

• If you have a hard 15, always surrender against a dealer 10. If you have a hard 16 (but not a pair of 8s), surrender against a dealer 9, 10, or ace.

Split

• Always split 8s and aces.
• Never split 5s or 10s.
• Split 2s and 3s against a dealer 4 through 7. If doubling after the split is allowed, you should also split against a dealer 2 or 3.
• 4s should only be split if the dealer has a 5 or 6 and doubling after the split is allowed.
• Split 6s against a dealer 3 through 6. Split against a dealer 2 if doubling after the split is allowed.
• Split 7s if the dealer shows a 2 through 7.
• Split 9s if the dealer shows a 2 through 6 or 8 through 9.

Double Down

• Double hard 9 vs dealer 3 through 6.
• Double hard 10 unless the dealer has a 10 or ace.
• Double a hard 11 unless the dealer shows an ace.
• Double soft 13 or 14 against a dealer 5 or 6.
• Double soft 15 or 16 against a dealer 4 to 6.
• Double soft 17 or 18 against a dealer 3 to 6.

Hit or Stand

• Always hit on hard 11 or lower.
• Stand on a hard 12 if the dealer has a 4 through 6. Otherwise, you should hit.
• Stand on a hard 13 through 16 if the dealer has a 2 through 6. Otherwise, you should hit.
• Always stand on a hard 17 or higher.
• Always hit on a soft 17 or less.
• Stand on a soft 18. You should, however, hit versus a dealer 9, 10, or ace.
• Always stand on a soft 19 or higher.

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