Blackjack is a card game that pits the player against the dealer. It is played with one or more 52-card decks. The object of the game is to accumulate cards that total 21 or as close to it as possible without going over. The game is governed by strict rules, and the game can be won through sound betting strategy. The house edge in blackjack is low, and it can be reduced even further by learning a few basic tips.

A good blackjack player should know when to double down. This is a move that can significantly increase your chances of winning if the dealer has a poor card showing such as a six. It is also a good idea to double down when you have a hand that has the potential of making 21 through the addition of a face or 10 value card.

Another important tip for blackjack players is to be aware of the difference between hitting and standing. Many new players make this mistake, and it can lead to a huge loss. To hit a hand, you must place your chips in the circle in front of your space and signal to the dealer that you would like to receive an additional card. To stand a hand, you must place your chips behind the original betting circle and use a beckoning motion with your hand to indicate that you would like to remain with the current hand.

You should also learn when to split pairs in blackjack. This is a move that can greatly improve your odds of winning. If you have a pair of eights, for example, you should always split them because they are the worst cards in the deck. It is also a good idea to split any other pair that has equal value. Remember, however, that you should not split two 10’s because they are considered a strong hand in blackjack.

The best blackjack players also learn to count cards. This is a skill that can drastically reduce the house edge in blackjack, but it requires a lot of practice. The most common counting system is the Hi-Lo method, but other systems exist as well. Basically, the card counter counts all of the cards that are dealt and then raises his or her bet when the count is positive.

It is also important to manage your bankroll in blackjack. Having a set amount that you are willing to spend on the table will help you avoid big losses and keep your gambling sessions in the black. It is also a good idea to play for short periods of time. This will help you conserve your blackjack funds and prevent burnout. You should also try to avoid doubling down more than once, as this can decrease your chances of winning. In addition, you should never take insurance, which is a side bet that pays 2-to-1 if the dealer has an Ace in the hole.