Blackjack, also known as “21” is a classic casino game that involves luck and skill. A simple game with just a player, the dealer, and a deck of 52 cards — blackjack has maintained its allure and popularity throughout the ages for good reason.

Playing blackjack at a live table or online casino is a fun form of entertainment, especially if you know what you’re doing. So whether you’re a blackjack newbie or card shark, here are some helpful tips to make the most of your next blackjack game.

Play Like a Pro

Like many card games, blackjack requires a fair deal of strategy and skill set, especially if you plan on maximizing your no deposit bonuses. So if you’re interested in upping your game — and we’re sure you are, we advise you to follow these tips.

1. Knowledge is Power

Blackjack is a numbers game. There’s a reason there are movies about math savants and card counters. It’s because if you have the mind to calculate like a computer, the odds are heavily in your favor.

Of course, casinos have found ways to discourage these types of activities using additional decks of cards and computer algorithms, but that doesn’t change the fact that the game is all math and numbers.

Strategy Charts

Knowing the basics of the game and best practices before you go to the tables is the best thing you can do to even the odds in your favor. Another easy way to boost your odds is to use a strategy chart (or sheet).

These are simple spreadsheets that have already calculated the odds of winning any given hand and give a suggestion on how to play. Most casinos allow them, but they won’t let you leave it on the table. You’ll have to just keep it in your hand.

Online casinos, however, have no such qualms and you can use your strategy sheets and notes to your heart’s content.

2. Never Buy Insurance

Insurance bets are side bets offered when the dealer’s face-up card is an ace. They typically offer 2:1 odds up to half the original bet. Theoretically, if the dealer has blackjack, you’ll receive your bet back if you take the side bet.

Insurance bets are statistically not worth your time. Even with a massive pot on the table, it’s simply not worth it. The side bet plays on your fears and can give you a false sense of security, but the odds of actually winning are much worse than the 2:1 on offer. It’s better just to press your luck and see what happens.

3. Place the Best Bet 

Blackjack is a game with a house edge, there’s no getting around it. If you play for a long time, chances are, you’ll lose money to the house gradually and consistently. Many players believe that changing your bet size will help to overcome this house edge and change the odds. While this is true for some games, it is certainly not for blackjack.

When playing blackjack, it’s a good idea to always bet the table minimum. This way, you’ll lose less money than if you raise the stakes, and there is still a chance that you’ll make some money as your card counting skills improve.

4.Keep Your Wits

Blackjack requires concentration and focus so it’s smart to keep your wits about you when playing. For this reason, avoiding drinking alcohol is a good tip to both improve your skills and help manage your bankroll during your gaming session.

Staying sober and clear-headed will also help you know when to quit — a vital skill for any gambling enthusiast. Whether you quit when you’re ahead or cut your losses in the middle of a losing streak, keeping your wits about you is a winning strategy.

5. Slow and Steady Wins the Race

Playing blackjack at a land-based casino can sometimes be a bit nerve-wracking for players, especially newbies. The lights, sounds, and a real dealer in front of you can be enough to break anyone’s concentration and even make them slip up.

That’s why playing blackjack at an online casino from the comfort of your own home can be just the edge you need to take it slow and keep your focus. While live casinos can be tons of fun, playing slower can reduce your loss rate and help you hone your skills.

Hit Me 

To make the most of your online casino bonuses and your deposits, these blackjack tips will have you feeling like a pro in no time. As long as you keep these tips (and not an Ace) up your sleeve, you’re sure to rock the blackjack tables at your favorite online casino.