Blackjack is an ancient game that has been with us since the early 1700s at least. The fact that it’s endured and is still popular in the modern day is a testament to its many qualities.

As a traditional card game, there is an element of chance involved, but blackjack also requires factors of skill and strategy.

For those who want to play the game at a high level, here are some of the skills needed to succeed.

Finding a Game

Blackjack is available across many digital platforms. It’s easy to log on and find an online casino that provides a host of classic games and alternate versions. While there can be monetary stakes involved, many of those operators also have free demo blackjack options.

Games can also be played on mobile devices while on the go. Casinos also have apps, while other providers offer free blackjack games.

Those that don’t want to play online can quickly set up a game of blackjack with friends and family. All you need is a standard deck of cards and at least two people to play.

Having found the right place to play, it’s time to develop those blackjack skills.

The Basics

A grasp of the basic rules is essential, and this can be gained by reading comprehensive guides. The aim of the game is to score 21 or get as close to that number as possible without going over.

The player has to beat the dealer’s hand. A tie is not enough, and the dealer will win in this scenario.

The player and the dealer are dealt two cards each in the initial round. The player then has the option to hit – take another card or stand – remain with their existing hand.

While those are the basics, it’s recommended that players take a few free games to develop their knowledge. That’s the first tip: Perfect your understanding of blackjack and take on some practice games to develop your gameplay.

Know When to Hit or Stand

There is an element of risk and reward involved with Blackjack. If your opening hand finishes on 17, do you hit or stand?

This is when the question of mathematical probability can be used. In blackjack, the cards 10, J, Q and K are worth ten points each. In a 52-card deck, they account for 16 of the total figures. Therefore, if you are playing with multiple opponents, and there are several tens and picture cards already on the table, probability suggests that the next card may be a low scorer.

While there are no guarantees with this approach, the method can help to reduce the element of chance involved in hitting or standing.

Calm Thought Process

It’s important to stay in control of your thoughts and emotions while playing at the blackjack table. There will be a temptation to take a hit when the dealer appears to have a solid hand.

They may have an upturned ace on the table, but that won’t necessarily mean that a ten or a picture card gives them a perfect hand of 21.

Professional players will even pay attention to their breathing, as a way of remaining calm under pressure. That may be an option if you intend to play blackjack regularly.

Keeping those emotions in check is also a valuable tool when it comes to keeping control of your finances.

Money Management

Experienced blackjack players will offer advice in relation to your bankroll. This is another term for your account balance, and it’s the amount that you have to play with when you step up to the card table.

It’s not advisable to chase losses. If you are having a bad day, simply walk away and come back another time. All of this promotes responsible gambling, and effective management of your bankroll is at the heart of this.

While there are some minor differences of opinion, it’s generally stated that you should play with no more than 10% of your bankroll in any session. If you reach that 10% threshold, stop playing and come back to the table another time.

While there will always be an element of chance involved in any card game, skills such as these can help to turn the odds in your favor.

Start with the basics and learn the rules thoroughly. Play free games online while you continue through this stage. While the main elements of the game are covered here, there are more complex parts of blackjack gameplay, including the question of insurance and whether to split if you are dealt a pair in the first round of dealing.

From there, it’s important to keep practicing and to perfect your craft. Once those basic requirements have been taken care of, players can consider the more advanced aspects of blackjack, as they continue to improve.