Blackjack is a game of chance and skill where the object is to beat the dealer. The rules are simple enough: You and the dealer each get two cards. If your first cards add up to 21 (an Ace and a card valued at 10 or higher), you win. If you beat the dealer, you receive your bets back without any adjustment. Ties are known as a push or standoff.
Blackjack dealers run the game of blackjack and are responsible for ensuring the table is set up properly. They also perform standard checks to ensure everything is ready before they deal the cards. This includes arranging chips and checking that the shoe has been shuffled and refilled. Dealers also help players with any questions they may have about the game or the rules.
After placing your bet, the dealer will deal each player two cards face up. You then have the choice to “hit” and request additional cards or “stand” and keep your current hand. The dealer will then reveal their own card and determine whether to hit or stand based on predetermined rules.
When you hit, your goal is to try and get closer to 21 than the dealer. If you get a blackjack, you win and are paid out at 6 to 5 or 3 to 2 depending on the game you’re playing. If your first two cards are an Ace and a card worth 10 or higher, you’ll also win a “natural” or “blackjack.”
Novices will often miss golden opportunities to improve their chances of winning. They will stand too often when they should hit and fail to double down or split pairs as often as they should. This means that they give up a lot of money to the house by not taking advantage of favorable situations in the game. Expert players on the other hand, will take every opportunity to maximize their wins.
Dealers must always hit on a total of 16 or lower and stand on a total of 17 or higher. They must also follow a predetermined rule for splitting and doubling pairs. The dealer will usually shuffle the cards after each round of play.
It’s important for the dealer to understand the game of blackjack and the rules that are in place to protect the players and themselves. It’s also vital for the dealer to know how to collect bets and deal the cards in a way that is fair to everyone at the table. The dealer will also have to know when they can make a mistake and how to correct it. This will prevent them from making a serious mistake that could result in a big loss for the player or the casino. It’s also important for the dealer to be able to read the facial expressions of the players at the table. This will let them know if the player is confident in their decision or is unsure.