Blackjack is a game of strategy and math. The objective is to beat the dealer by drawing a hand value of 21 or as close as possible without going over. If you have a hand that has more points than the dealer’s you win; otherwise, you tie and get your bet back. The rules of the game are simple, but the game requires more than just knowledge of the rules and basic strategy to play well. It also requires a deep understanding of casino procedures and protocol.
The dealer gives each player two cards and the dealer has one card face up and the other facing down. The player may choose to “split” their hand, which means they play the cards in separate hands and take their turns separately. They may also choose to “double” their bet, which requires them to make another bet equal to the original bet. Depending on the game, there may be other side bets available.
Some casinos offer “insurance,” which is a bet that the dealer has a blackjack. This is paid at 2 to 1 and is placed on the “insurance bar” above the players’ bets. The dealer will look at the card in their hole before allowing anyone to place an insurance bet. The dealer will then pay off or take the insurance wagers before continuing the round.
A player’s total of 21 on the first two cards is called a “natural” or a “blackjack.” The player wins immediately, unless the dealer has a natural as well, in which case the hand ties. Some games also allow the player to double down after their initial two cards, but only if their total is 11 or higher, and only against a dealer’s up card of 10 or A.
It’s important for dealers to understand the nuances of each game and the rules of each table, as well as all the various side bets that are available. They should also be aware of the different strategies for winning, such as card counting, which involves analyzing the deck and increasing your bets when the concentration of aces and 10s is high.
It’s also a dealer’s responsibility to provide impeccable customer service to all players, especially when they are losing. They should remain calm and courteous when a player is upset about their loss and try to help them find ways to overcome this challenge. It is also a dealer’s duty to uphold the integrity of the game and identify any possible instances of cheating or foul play during gameplay. This includes identifying any players that are intoxicated or drunk and addressing these issues accordingly. If you are a hard worker with an inquisitive mind and are interested in learning how to deal blackjack, this is an excellent career choice for you. A high school diploma is usually sufficient to get started. Some training is provided by the casino, but you should also seek out a number of books on the subject.