Why Basic Strategy Matters
Blackjack basic strategy is the mathematically optimal way to play every hand against every dealer upcard. Using it correctly reduces the house edge from around 2% to just 0.5%.
Hard Hands Strategy
Hard hands are any hand without an ace counted as 11. Always hit hard 8 or less, stand on hard 17 or more, and double down on 11 against dealer 2-10.
Soft Hands Strategy
Soft hands contain an ace counted as 11. These hands offer more flexibility since you cannot bust with one card. Double down frequently on soft 17 and 18 against weak dealer cards.
Pair Splitting Rules
Always split aces and 8s. Never split 5s or 10s. Split 2s, 3s, 6s, and 7s against dealer 2-7. Split 9s against 2-6 and 8-9.
Surrender When Available
Late surrender is valuable in specific situations. Surrender 16 against 9, 10, or ace. Surrender 15 against a 10.
