A Guide To Casino Blackjack Card Values And Basic Hands

Blackjack is the absolute crown jewel of the casino table games pit, offering the best mathematical odds for the educated player.


The goal is not simply to get as close to 21 as possible; the true goal is strictly to beat the dealer's hand without going over 21.

The Value of the Deck: Aces, Faces, and Numbers

Cards numbered 2 through 10 are worth their exact printed face value (e.g., a 7 of Spades is worth 7 points).


The Ace is the most powerful and flexible card in the entire game because it has a dual value.

Going over a total of 21 is called 'Busting' or 'Breaking'; if you bust, you immediately lose your bet, even if the dealer eventually busts laterThe casino's entire mathematical edge comes from the fact that the player is forced to draw cards and potentially bust before the dealer ever actsUnderstanding the difference between a Hard 17 and a Soft 17 is critical, as basic strategy dictates entirely different actions for each
The Basic Player Actions: Hit, Stand, Double, Split

If you are satisfied with your total and want to end your turn, you wave your hand horizontally over the cards to 'Stand'.


Doubling down allows you to double your original bet in exchange for receiving one, and exactly one, additional card.

Player ActionHand SignalWhen to Use It (Basic Rule of Thumb)HitTap the feltWhen your total is low and you risk nothing by taking a cardStandWave hand horizontallyWhen your total is 17 or higher (Hard 17+)

Blackjack rewards knowledge; learn the basics, trust the math, and the game will reward you.