Blackjack is a game of strategy. The basic objective is to get a hand value higher than the dealer’s without going over 21. It is also important to manage your bankroll and understand the odds of the game. The blackjack table is a tool that will help you maximize your chances of winning, but it must be used properly to avoid wasting your money.

The best way to learn the rules of blackjack is by reading a guide written by a professional. This will give you a clear understanding of the game’s strategy and help you become a better player. In addition, a blackjack guide will provide you with tips and tricks that can increase your winning potential.

When playing blackjack, you must use casino chips to make your bets. If you don’t have chips, you will need to ask the dealer to change your cash for chips. When you have your chips, place them in the betting spots on the table.

After making your bets, the dealer will deal two cards to each player and one card face up to themselves. The players then decide whether to hit, stand, double down, or surrender. The dealer acts last, and must hit on 16 or less and stand on 17 through 21. The player wins when their hand total is higher than the dealer’s or they have a hand value of 21 from their first two cards. The dealer loses when they bust (have a hand value of more than 21).

To improve your odds of winning, you should double down on hands that have the highest chance to beat the dealer. This includes hands with a value of 10, 11, or 12. The key is to not overextend, as this can lead to a costly mistake that will cost you more than your original bet amount.

Another key to improving your odds is to keep your bet size consistent. This will prevent you from falling into a losing streak. It is important to remember that the odds don’t care about your streaks or whether you feel like you’re due for a win.

Insurance is a side bet that can be made when the dealer has an ace showing. When you purchase insurance, you will put up half of your initial wager for a second bet. If the dealer has blackjack, you will receive your original bet back, plus an additional payout of 2 to 1. If the dealer does not have blackjack, you will lose your insurance bet.

The most important thing to remember when playing blackjack is that luck plays a major role in the outcome of any hand. However, if you follow the best blackjack strategies and learn the odds, you can minimize your losses and maximize your winnings. By maximizing your profits, you will have more fun while playing blackjack.