Basic Blackjack Skills and Knowledge
To be a really good blackjack player, you need to build a solid foundation. Master the basics first and then move on to more advanced stuff. For the aspiring card counter, there is more to learn than just basic strategy charts and hand gestures at the table. You need to study classic blackjack textbooks, count cards, track shuffles and more. You need to find your way around the dangerous world of casinos and learn how to survive. Being a successful blackjack player would make you the target of attack by casinos if you aren't discreet. Keep your success a secret and get rich in the dark. Here is what you need to get started.
Basic Knowledge
Serious blackjack players must have the minimum knowledge requirements.
- blackjack rule variations and how they affect the house edge - basic strategy charts - card counting - estimation of decks - true count - math: standard deviation, expected return, risk of ruin
Reading Material
Blackjack players must study the master works of successful blackjack professionals. Authors like Edward Thorp, Stanford Wong and others are a must-read.
Bankroll Management
No blackjack player can succeed unless they know how to handle their money. Study quality blackjack books to find out how much of a bankroll you need to get started. Make this money available without ruining your life outside the casino. And finally adjust your bets according to your bankroll size.
Selection
Be picky with the casinos you play in, which tables to go to and which games to play. Play only the best blackjack games with the lowest house edge. Keep shopping around different casinos for better game rules and promos. The more wisely you choose your venues, the better for your bankroll.
Discipline
Be prepared to play blackjack like a full-time job because that's just what it is. Play eight hours a day for five days a week at least. Keep playing even when you're losing. Keep learning new techniques. And keep moving if the rules change.
Conduct
Master the ability to count cards even in a noisy environment. This helps you hide the fact you're counting at the table. Dress well, avoid drinking and always be pleasant. Make friends with the casino staff and tip the dealer on occasion even if it cuts into your earnings a bit. Play slots from time to time. Don't play just blackjack.
When playing, don't tell other players what to do. Even if they ask, you mustn't show that you know. If you play a hand and others criticize you, shrug and ignore it.
If you're caught or accused of counting cards, leave the casino without argument. Saves you trouble.
It is not the simplest of professions, and it's definitely a challenge. But being a blackjack player and winning is stuff that gambling legends are made of. Learn the basics and yours can be the next blackjack success story.