The most basic goal of all Blackjack players is to have a hand value that is closer to 21 than that of the casino dealer, without going over 21. The hand is played exclusively against the dealer. This means that other players seated at the table are of absolutely no concern. Additionally, since the rules of play for the dealer are strictly dictated leaving him no decision-making options, many a time, the dealer's cards are dealt face up.

The value of the cards plays a significant role throughout Blackjack play. In Blackjack, cards 2-10 are worth their face value, face cards (Jacks, Queens and Kings) are worth 10, Aces are worth either 1 or 11 (depending on the circumstances). A standard Blackjack deck contains 52 cards divided into four different suits, spades, hearts, diamonds and clubs. Occasionally, there are two or more decks involved in a single Blackjack game. The value of a player's hand is calculated by summing the points of each card in the hand.

Once all the wagers are placed, two cards will be dealt to each player. Then game play proceeds, starting with the first player to the dealer's left. Each player, when their turn comes, will inform the dealer on how they wish to play the hand. After each player has finished his hand, the dealer will complete his own. Afterwards, he will provide the winning players with payment and collect the bets made by the losing game participants.

There are several options a Blackjack player is allowed to explore during play. These are presented below:

*If you are holding a weak hand with minimal winning chances, you are sometimes offered the option to surrender your hand. Although it's the least common decision made by Blackjack players, it is, nevertheless, a highly important one. This is because this particular option allows players to leave the game at the cost of half of the original bet. The decision to surrender must be taken before any further action on the hand is made. Remember, not every Blackjack game offers players the option to surrender.

*The most common decision Blackjack players are required to make once their cards are dealt is, whether they want to add another card to their hand (perhaps to increase the hand's point total) or to stop at the current point total. If the player chooses to draw, it means they wants to 'hit.' Alternatively, if the player prefers to avoid such a move, it means they wants to 'stand.' The actual decision is made according to the value of cards in the players' hand.

*Among the more profitable options offered to players in a Blackjack game is the option to 'double down.' This allows the player to double their original bet. The player can double down only with a two card hand, before any further cards have been drawn. If the player ultimately chooses to double down, they should always double for the full amount of the bet placed.

*Another important option players should take into account is splitting their hand. When the player is dealt a matching pair of cards (for instance, two queens), they are allowed to split the hand into two separate hands and play them independently. Remember, unlike a double-down, where they are allowed to double for less, the player who chooses to split must place an extra bet of the same amount as the original wager.

Good Luck!

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