Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games and offers players a chance to win big. While it is true that luck plays a significant role in winning at blackjack, learning basic strategies and understanding the odds can dramatically increase your chances of success. By deciding when to hit, stand, or double down, you can control the game rather than leaving it up to chance.

The game of blackjack is played with one or more 52-card decks. Each card has a value of either the number on the card, or 10 for face cards, or 1 for an ace. The goal of the game is to accumulate cards that total as close to 21 as possible without going over. Players get two cards and the dealer gets one card. If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win. If your hand is 21 or more, you have a blackjack, and win 3:2 on your bet.

While the dealer is shuffling and dealing the cards, you should avoid picking them up or moving them around on the table. This is considered bad Feng Shui and can distract you from making the right decisions. Additionally, personal items such as drinks and phones should be kept off the blackjack table as well.

Before you start playing, learn the game’s rules and terms. You should also be aware of the house edge, which is a mathematical advantage that the casino has over the player. By understanding the house edge, you can make better decisions about when to hit, stand, and double down.

Once you have a basic understanding of the rules, practice with play money before you start risking real money. Keep in mind that it is very easy to go broke quickly when you start playing blackjack. Make sure that you have a sufficient bankroll to last through at least a few rounds of the game before making any major bets.

Some blackjack tables offer side bets with enticing payouts for certain card combinations and outcomes, but they should be avoided at all costs. These extra bets have a high house edge and can dramatically decrease your chances of winning.

When you have a good hand, it is often best to “stand.” This means that you will not take another card and let the dealer continue drawing cards until they bust. To indicate that you want to stand, lightly tap on the table. The dealer will usually acquiesce and give you an additional card to improve your hand.

Whenever you are holding pairs other than aces, 8s, and 5s, consider splitting them to increase your odds of winning. However, be careful when you split aces, as the dealer is likely to beat your hand with a strong blackjack.