Basic Strategy (Blackjack)
The mathematically optimal play for every possible hand in blackjack.
Basic strategy is a set of rules that tells you the statistically best action (hit, stand, double, split, or surrender) for every combination of your hand versus the dealer's upcard. It was derived through computer simulation of millions of hands.
Playing perfect basic strategy reduces the house edge in blackjack to approximately 0.5%, making it one of the best games in the casino. Without basic strategy, the house edge can be 2-3% or more.
Basic strategy is not a guessing game — it's pure math. Every deviation from basic strategy increases the house edge. The most common mistakes are standing on soft 17, not doubling on 11 versus a 6, and not splitting 8s against a 10.
Related Terms
House Edge
The mathematical advantage the casino has over players, expressed as a percentage of each bet.
Card Counting
A strategy for tracking the ratio of high to low cards remaining in the deck to gain an edge.
Double Down
Doubling your bet in blackjack in exchange for receiving exactly one more card.
Split
Dividing a pair in blackjack into two separate hands, each with its own bet.
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