Blackjack is a casino card game where players compete with the dealer for a high hand score. A player must decide whether to hit, split, double down, or surrender their cards. If they have a higher hand value than the dealer, they win. They are paid one to two times their initial wager amount. The rules of blackjack vary from casino to casino, but the basic strategy remains the same.
To begin playing blackjack, you place a bet in the betting area of the table. The dealer then deals two cards to each player, face up. You may then choose to “hit” or stand, depending on the predetermined rules. If your first two cards add up to 21 (an Ace with a 10 or Jack, Queen, or King), you have a blackjack and are paid immediately.
If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win and are paid an amount equal to your original bet. If your hand is lower than the dealer’s, you lose. If your hand is a tie with the dealer, it is considered a push and you neither win nor lose.
Aside from the rules of blackjack, there are some important strategies to follow when playing this game. For example, always stand on a hard 17 or more when the dealer is showing an Ace or 10. Also, when dealing with pairs of 8s and aces, it’s best to split against 2 through 8. Finally, you should never double down on 11 because it will be difficult to improve your hand without busting.
In addition to following the rules of blackjack, you should know what each hand symbol means. For instance, an Ace is worth one point, while a face card is worth ten points. A pair of aces or eights is valued at 11 and two tens are valued at 20.
If you want to be a blackjack dealer, you need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Many people attend blackjack dealer training programs at casinos or at local vocational schools. These courses usually last six weeks and include instruction in casino games and local gambling laws.
As a blackjack dealer, you work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. You must be able to work at a gaming table for up to an hour before a short break. You may be exposed to second-hand tobacco smoke and other hazardous fumes in the casino environment.
If you are a good people person, blackjack can be an enjoyable job. It is a great way to make some extra money while working flexible hours. This career is ideal for people who can handle long shifts and work well under pressure. In addition to these skills, you should have excellent customer service and communication abilities. If you are interested in becoming a blackjack dealer, contact your local casino to find out about available programs. There are also online blackjack dealer training programs.