Blackjack is a game of chance, but you can increase your chances of winning by learning the game’s rules and strategy. You can also gain a small edge over the house by counting cards. But don’t get carried away by your winning streaks – remember, gambling is a game of chance and there are no guarantees.

The goal of blackjack is to draw cards that total as close to 21 as possible without going over. The game is played using one or more 52-card decks, with each card having a value of either the number on the card, 10 for a face card, or one or 11 for an ace. Players and the dealer are both dealt two cards, after which they may decide to ask for more cards (hit) or stand (stick with their current hand). If a player’s total is higher than that of the dealer, they win.

If a player has a total of 21 or better, they win the game and the money wagered on that hand. The game of blackjack is played against the dealer and not against other players at a table. Some casinos offer tables where a player can double down or surrender, but this is not common and the house still has an advantage over the players in these situations.

There are different strategies for playing blackjack, but all of them involve counting cards. The most well-known method of counting cards in blackjack is called the “running count” or the “true count.” To keep a running count, you can take a single deck and turn it over, adding up the values of each card as you go. Eventually, you should reach zero. The true count is more sophisticated, incorporating the number of decks in play into your calculation. Casinos are wise to card counters and will often switch to a multiple deck shoe when they detect that the count is favorable for them.

While there are many different blackjack charts, you should start with a basic chart that explains the correct move for every situation at the table. Once you have memorized the chart, you can consult it during a blackjack session, keeping in mind that you may need to adapt it to the specific rules of the blackjack game you are playing.

Blackjack strategy charts provide the optimal moves based on the cards you are dealt and the dealer’s upcard. There are even charts that show which moves to make if you have a specific starting hand, such as splitting, doubling down or hitting. These charts are very useful to players who want to beat blackjack, but you should keep in mind that they do not guarantee a winning hand.

The best thing to do while learning blackjack is to practice with a free online blackjack game. It will help you learn the game quickly and effectively. Practicing will teach you how to read the chart, and it will allow you to test your skills when you are ready to try them out at a real blackjack table.