How to Count Cards in Blackjack: Simple Guide
Card counting is a way to play blackjack using your mind to keep track of the cards. Many people think only experts can do it, but it is not very hard. If you can add and subtract basic numbers, you can learn to count cards. This guide will show you how to do it in very easy steps.
What is Card Counting? Is It Legal?
Card counting means you remember which cards have already been played. You do this to guess which cards are left in the deck.
- If there are more high cards (10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace) left, it is good for you.
- If there are more low cards (2, 3, 4, 5, 6) left, it is better for the dealer.
Card counting is not against the law. But casinos do not like it. If they think you are counting cards, they can ask you to leave.
The Simple “Hi-Lo” Card Counting System
The easiest way to count cards is the “Hi-Lo” system. You give each card a value:
- 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 = +1
- 7, 8, 9 = 0
- 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace = -1
You start with zero. When you see a card, add or subtract its value from your count.
Example:
- The first card is a 5. Count: 0 + 1 = 1.
- Next is a Queen. Count: 1 – 1 = 0.
- Next is an 8. Count: 0 + 0 = 0.
- Next is a 3. Count: 0 + 1 = 1.
Keep going and add or subtract for every card you see, for every player and the dealer.
If your count is a high positive number, there are more high cards left. This means your chance of winning goes up. If it is a negative number, there are more low cards.
What is the “True Count”?
If you play with more than one deck, you should use the “true count.” The true count tells you how strong the count is, depending on how many decks are left.
To find the true count:
- Divide your running count by the number of decks left.
Example:
- Running count is +6.
- About 3 decks left.
- True count is 6 ÷ 3 = +2.
The higher the true count, the better your chances.
How to Practice Card Counting
You should practice at home with a real deck of cards.
Step 1: Count Through the Deck
Take out a deck. Flip cards over one by one and keep your count. At the end, your count should be zero. Practice until you get it right.
Step 2: Go Faster
Flip two cards at a time and add the scores together. Try to go faster every time you practice.
Step 3: Play Practice Games
Try to count cards while also playing blackjack for fun. You can play free games online at websites like Betway or LeoVegas. See if you can keep your count while playing.
Using Card Counting to Bet
Counting cards only works if you change your bet.
- If your true count is zero or a negative number, keep your bet small.
- If your true count is positive, you can make a bigger bet.
Do not make big jumps in your bets. Raise your bet slowly if the count gets better. If you suddenly bet a lot, the casino may suspect you.
Card Counting and Basic Strategy
Counting cards does not tell you when to hit or stay. You still need to know the basic blackjack rules. Card counting just helps you make bigger bets at the best times.
Sometimes, with a high count, you can change your moves a little:
- If the true count is +3, you can take insurance. Usually, you should not take insurance, but now it is okay.
- If you have 16 against the dealer’s 10, you normally hit. With a high count, you can stay instead because the dealer might bust.
Only try special moves after you are good at counting.
Can You Count Cards Online?
Most online blackjack games are not good for card counting. The computer shuffles the deck after every hand, so there is no way to keep count.
But live dealer blackjack online (like on 1xBet or 22Bet) uses real cards. You can try counting here, but most casinos mix up the cards often and use many decks. This makes counting very hard.
Stay Safe: Manage Your Money
Card counting does not mean you will win every time. You only win a little more in the long run. Sometimes you will still lose.
- Always set a budget before you play.
- Only bet money you can afford to lose.
- Take breaks.
- If you feel upset or want to chase losses, stop playing.
For more gambling tips, check betadvisorzone.
Conclusion
To count cards in blackjack, you do not need to be a genius. You just need practice and patience. Remember:
- Learn the Hi-Lo system.
- Practice counting cards until you can do it fast.
- Only bet more when the count is good.
- Play safe and follow basic blackjack rules.
Start at home, then try free online games before playing for real money. Counting cards is a skill, and it can help you as long as you always play responsibly.