Blackjack is a game of chance, but it also has a certain element of skill. If you learn about the game and how to play it correctly, you can increase your chances of winning and make the most of your money. The goal is to have a higher total than the dealer without going over 21. If the dealer goes over 21, they bust and lose the game. The game is usually played at a table for two to seven players with one to eight 52-card decks. The number cards (2-10) score their printed value, while the face cards (jack, queen and king) score 10 points each and the Ace can be either 1 or 11.

Blackjack variations may vary in how many decks are used and how the rules are interpreted, so it’s important to read up on the variant you’re playing before you start playing. It’s also worth avoiding side bets like the Insurance bet, as these push the house edge up and decrease your chances of winning.

The best way to improve your blackjack experience is to practice with free games online before playing for real money. Using flashcards is also an effective way to help you memorize the right moves and betting strategy. It’s also important to set your bankroll before you sit down at a blackjack table and play. This will ensure you don’t spend more than you can afford to lose and will prevent you from making risky decisions just because you’re on a losing streak.

A common mistake is to second-guess your move or decision in blackjack, which can lead to big losses. You need to follow a proven strategy and stick with it. If you’re playing with a partner, try to play by the same rules so that you can compare notes.

You can improve your odds of winning by learning how to double down and split cards. The key is to understand when to double down and which hands are better to split. For example, splitting a pair of 8s or aces is almost always the best option. This will allow you to get more value from your starting hand and increase your chances of winning in the long run.

Another strategy to use is counting cards, which can help you win more hands by keeping track of the high and low cards in a dealer’s deck. However, this technique is not a guarantee of success and you should only use it in conjunction with a solid basic strategy.

Some casinos reduce the 3 to 2 payout on blackjacks, which increases the house edge and makes it harder to win. This is why it’s important to know the rules of each casino before you play. Also, be aware of the differences between the different blackjack variants so that you’re playing with the most favourable rules.