How to read the blackjack chart
Find your hand in the left column, then the dealer's up card along the top. The cell where they meet shows the best decision: hit, stand, double or split. These choices were worked out by simulating millions of hands: they give the best long-run result.
Hard totals, soft totals and pairs
A hard hand has no ace, or an ace that must count as 1 (for example 10 + 6). A soft hand has an ace that can count as 11 without going over 21, like ace + 6 (7 or 17): it can't bust by taking one card, so you can play it more aggressively. Pairs can be split into two separate hands.
The golden rules of basic strategy
Always split aces and eights, never split tens or fives. Double 11 against every dealer card except an ace. Stand on 13 to 16 when the dealer shows 2 to 6, and on 12 against 4, 5 or 6: the dealer is the one most likely to bust. And never take insurance.
Why the table rules matter
This chart matches the most common online version: 4 to 8 decks, dealer stands on soft 17, double after split allowed. If the dealer hits soft 17, a few decisions change slightly, such as doubling 11 against an ace. Also check that blackjack pays 3 to 2: at 6 to 5, the house edge rises by about 1.4 points.
What basic strategy doesn't do
It brings the house edge down to around 0.5%, but doesn't remove it: over time, the casino keeps a small edge. It's no substitute for a budget, so set yourself a limit before you play.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this chart while playing online?
Yes. Nothing stops you from keeping it open during an online blackjack game, and it's the best way to learn it.
Does basic strategy guarantee a win?
No. It gives the mathematically best decision for every hand, but results are still random and the casino keeps a small edge.
Should I count cards online?
It's pointless on automated games, where cards are shuffled every hand. At live tables, the shoe is usually reshuffled long before the end.