Blackjack is a game of strategy and odds that can be played in many different ways. Having the right basic strategy can save you money and ensure that you are making the best possible decisions with each hand. You should also make sure that you are thinking clearly before you play, and that you do not have any alcohol or other substances in your system, which can affect your decision-making abilities.
When playing blackjack, it is important to understand the rules of the game and how to use a blackjack chart to help you maximize your winnings and minimize your losses. The chart combines a set of rules and strategies that inform you about the best move to make for every hand dealt when you only have your own two cards and the dealer’s up card. The result is a mathematically correct strategy that maximises your chances of winning and minimises the amount of money you lose.
To get started with a blackjack chart, first decide how much you are willing to spend on each hand and stick to it. This will ensure that you are not betting more than you can afford to win, and it will stop you from trying to chase your losses and getting in trouble with your bankroll. This is one of the biggest mistakes you can make in blackjack, and it will end up costing you more than just your money.
Another way to improve your blackjack strategy is to double down when you are holding a strong starting hand. This will allow you to increase the value of your hand by adding a card that will improve it, or it can cut down on the number of losses you have to suffer from. It is usually a good idea to split pairs of 8s and Aces as well, although this will require an extra bet.
It is also a good idea to ask the dealer for an additional card when you have a high-value hand and you are certain that the next card won’t cause you to go bust, or you are willing to take the risk of the dealer having a better hand than yours. It is not recommended to ask the dealer for an additional card if you are holding a weak hand, as this can significantly reduce your chance of winning.
In the case of a tie, the player receives their bet back. If a player has a blackjack, the dealer pays out that player’s bet and then collects the bets of players who do not have blackjacks.
You can find a variety of blackjack games at DraftKings, including the popular version with side bets. These bets can range from $1 to 100 and include options such as twenties and pairs. These bets can increase your winning chances and increase the fun of the game. The game is incredibly easy to learn, but be careful not to play it after consuming alcohol or after a long day at work, as this can make you more susceptible to making poor decisions.
