Blackjack is one of the few casino games where skill can make a significant difference in your bankroll. There are several different strategies that can be used to reduce the house’s advantage, but all of them involve making intelligent choices about when to hit, stand, double down, and split. In addition, knowing the rules of blackjack can help you to understand the game better and improve your odds of winning.

During the course of a blackjack hand, each player is dealt two cards by the dealer. They have the option to hit (take another card), stand (remain at their current score), or double down (increase their original bet by up to 2 times). The dealer must also take cards according to specific predefined rules depending on what value they add up to.

If the dealer has a hand that exceeds 21 or busts, they lose. However, if the player’s hand has a total that is higher than the dealer’s and does not bust, they win. If the dealer and player have identical scores, it is a tie (also known as a push), and no one wins or loses.

It is important to learn the values of each card so you can add them up quickly and easily. Face cards are worth 10 points, cards numbered 2-10 are worth their printed value, and aces count as either 1 or 11.

Once you have a basic understanding of the rules of blackjack, it’s time to start playing! It’s important to remember that you are only playing against the dealer, not against the other players at the table. It is easy to get caught up in what other people are doing at the table, but this can distract you from making good decisions and ultimately cost you money.

There are a few simple rules to keep in mind when playing blackjack: Always split Aces and 8’s. This is because they both have the potential to become a 21 when combined with a ten-card, which will pay out 1:1. Never split Fives or Face cards, as these are mediocre hands that should be stood on.

Many players make the mistake of placing an insurance bet when they have a strong hand against a dealer’s up-card. This bet is a big money-maker for casinos and is often misunderstood by solid players. By learning when to place an insurance bet, you can significantly reduce the house edge and improve your chances of winning. By taking the time to learn about this strategy, you can increase your bankroll and have more fun at the tables.