10 Common Mistakes Blackjack Players Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games in the world. It’s a game of skill that requires strategy, discipline, and focus. However, even the best blackjack players can make mistakes that can cost them money. In this article, we will discuss 10 common mistakes that blackjack players make and how to avoid them.
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10 Common Blackjack Mistakes #1 – Not knowing the basic strategy
The basic strategy is the foundation of successful blackjack play. It’s a set of rules that tells players when to hit, stand, double down, or split pairs based on the player’s hand and the dealer’s upcard. Not knowing the basic strategy is one of the most common mistakes that blackjack players make. Without the basic strategy, players rely on their intuition, which can lead to costly mistakes.
To avoid this mistake, players should study and memorize the basic strategy before playing blackjack. The basic strategy can be found in books and online resources, and many casinos offer free basic strategy cards.
10 Common Blackjack Mistakes #2 – Playing at tables with unfavorable rules
Not all blackjack tables are created equal. Different casinos and even different tables within the same casino may have different rules that can affect the player’s chances of winning. Rules such as the number of decks, the dealer’s hitting or standing on soft 17, and the payout for blackjack can all have an impact on the player’s expected return.
To avoid this mistake, players should always look for tables with favorable rules. This may require some research and scouting of different casinos and tables. Players should also be aware of the different blackjack variants and their rules, as some variants may be more favorable than others.
10 Common Blackjack Mistakes #3 – Not managing their bankroll
Bankroll management is an essential part of successful blackjack play. Players who don’t manage their bankroll properly can quickly run out of money and be forced to leave the table. Conversely, players who manage their bankroll effectively can minimize their losses and maximize their winnings.
To avoid this mistake, players should set a budget for their blackjack play and stick to it. They should also have a clear idea of how much they are willing to risk per hand and adjust their bets accordingly. Players should also avoid chasing losses and resist the urge to increase their bets when they are on a losing streak.
10 Common Blackjack Mistakes #4 – Taking insurance
Insurance is a side bet that players can make when the dealer’s upcard is an Ace. It pays 2:1 if the dealer has a blackjack, but it’s generally considered a sucker bet because it has a high house edge.
To avoid this mistake, players should avoid taking insurance. The basic blackjack strategy recommends that players should never take insurance, regardless of their hand or the dealer’s upcard.
#5 – Splitting pairs incorrectly
Splitting pairs is a common strategy in blackjack, but it can be tricky. Some players make the mistake of splitting pairs when they shouldn’t, or failing to split pairs when they should.
To avoid this mistake, players should follow the basic strategy for splitting pairs. In general, players should split pairs of Aces and 8s, but avoid splitting pairs of 10s and 5s.
#6 – Doubling down incorrectly
Doubling down is another common strategy in blackjack that can be profitable if done correctly. However, some players make the mistake of doubling down when they shouldn’t, or failing to double down when they should.
To avoid this mistake, players should follow the basic strategy for doubling down. In general, players should double down on hands of 10 or 11, and avoid doubling down on hands of 12 or higher.
#7 – Drinking too much
Drinking and gambling often go hand in hand, but alcohol can impair a player’s judgment and lead to poor decision-making.
To avoid this mistake, players should limit their alcohol intake while playing blackjack. They should also take regular breaks to clear their head and stay focused.
#8 – Not paying attention to the dealer’s upcard
The dealer’s upcard is an important piece of information in blackjack. It can help players make better decisions about whether to hit, stand, or double down. However, some players make the mistake of not paying attention to the dealer’s upcard or forgetting what it is.
To avoid this mistake, players should always be aware of the dealer’s upcard and use it to inform their decisions. They should also make sure to keep track of the cards that have been played to help them make better predictions about what the dealer’s hole card might be.
#9 – Playing too many hands at once
Some players try to maximize their winnings by playing multiple hands at once. However, playing too many hands at once can be overwhelming and lead to mistakes.
To avoid this mistake, players should only play as many hands as they can comfortably handle. They should also make sure to keep track of each hand separately and not let the action at one hand distract them from the others.
#10 – Letting emotions cloud their judgment
Blackjack can be an emotional game, especially when players are on a winning or losing streak. However, letting emotions cloud their judgment can lead to poor decisions and costly mistakes.
To avoid this mistake, players should try to stay calm and focused while playing blackjack. They should not let their emotions influence their decisions and stick to the basic strategy and sound bankroll management principles. They should also take regular breaks to clear their head and stay focused.
Final thoughts
These are 10 common mistakes that blackjack players make and how to avoid them. By studying the basic strategy, looking for tables with favorable blackjack rules, managing their bankroll, avoiding insurance, and following the proper strategies for splitting pairs and doubling down, players can improve their chances of winning. Additionally, paying attention to the dealer’s upcard, playing a comfortable number of hands, and keeping emotions in check can help players avoid costly mistakes and make better decisions at the blackjack table.
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