Blackjack is a fast-paced game and decisions must be made quickly. Players can gain a feel for this over time, but there are some situations where using a strategy chart is helpful. One such situation is when to hit on a hand. When to do this can make the difference between winning and losing.
When to hit in blackjack depends on a number of factors, including the dealer’s upcard. If the dealer has a 10, it is an ideal time to hit, as it increases your chances of beating the dealer’s hand. However, if the dealer has a 3, 4, 5, or 6, hitting is not recommended. This is because the odds are not in your favor and you will likely lose money.
Another time to hit is when your total is 12 to 16, and the dealer has a face-up card of 4 or less. This is because the dealer has a lower chance of having a blackjack, and you have a better chance of winning the hand with a hit. Likewise, when the dealer has a 7, 8, 9, or 10 showing, hitting is an ideal move.
Hitting is also a good choice when the dealer has an upcard that makes it more difficult for you to beat their hand. This includes a 6, 7 or 8 showing, as these cards give the dealer more options to make their standing total of 17 or higher.
You should always split if you have a pair of starting cards, such as two nines or two threes. You will place a second bet equal in value to your original bet and then play each card as a separate hand, hitting until you want to stay or bust. You should also split aces and eights if the dealer has a seven or above.
Lastly, you should double down when the dealer has a 2 or 3 showing and you have an 11 in your initial two cards. This gives you an excellent chance of hitting a 10, which can give you a blackjack and significantly improve your odds of winning.
When doubling down, you should signal your intention by pushing a stack of chips next to your current bet amount. Do not put the new stack on top of your original bet amount, as this is seen as tampering with your bet and may result in your being disqualified from the tournament. You can also indicate your intent by simply telling the dealer that you would like to double down. In most cases, you will be allowed to double down, but you should only do so when your initial hand is a clear frontrunner. Otherwise, you should stand. This will reduce your risk of going bust and help you avoid losing expected value.