A Guide To Casino Blackjack Card Values And Basic Hands

Blackjack is the absolute crown jewel of the casino table games pit, offering the best mathematical odds for the educated player.


The goal is not simply to get as close to 21 as possible; the true goal is strictly to beat the dealer's hand without going over 21.

The Value of the Deck: Aces, Faces, and Numbers

Cards numbered 2 through 10 are worth their exact printed face value (e.g., a 7 of Spades is worth 7 points).


An Ace can be counted as either 1 point or 11 points, depending entirely on which value helps your hand the most without busting.

If your starting two cards are an Ace and any 10-point card, you have achieved a 'Blackjack' (or a Natural 21)A true 'Blackjack' pays out a massive bonus, usually 3-to-2 on your original bet, instead of the standard 1-to-1 even moneyIf both you and the dealer receive a natural Blackjack on the exact same hand, the bet is a 'Push' (tie), and your money is returned
Understanding Your Options at the Table

Once you are dealt your first two cards, you have several primary choices to make regarding how to play the hand.


If you are dealt a strong starting hand (like an 11), you can choose to 'Double Down'.

Player ActionHand SignalWhen to Use It (Basic Rule of Thumb)HitTap the feltWhen your total is low and you risk nothing by taking a cardStandWave hand horizontallyWhen your total is 17 or higher (Hard 17+)

Once you understand how the hands are scored, you can begin memorizing the mathematical charts that tell you exactly when to hit or stand.