Lesson description
Are you making basic errors in your blackjack game? Learn the biggest mistakes new blackjack players make and how to avoid them with our expert, Mr Blackjack.
Blackjack is a simple card game to learn, but new players still make loads of avoidable mistakes. Check out whether you're making these top 5 mistakes that new blackjack players make:
Mistake #1
You forget to read the table rules. You may sit at a table that has a $100 minimum and then you put out your $10 bet and the dealer will motion and point to the table minimum sign. If this happens stand up and apologize; you are not forced to play. Don't make yourself stay at a table with limits you can't afford for the sake of not wanting to look silly.
Mistake #2
You sit down at a blackjack variant for which you don’t know the rules. Always, always check the rules of blackjack variants before committing any cash. Even the smallest changes can have a big impact on your winnings.
I once sat down at Spanish 21 blackjack. In this game, the 10s are removed from the deck, which greatly increased the house edge. $500 later I wasn’t having any fun and didn’t even know why.
Mistake #3
Not bringing enough bankroll. Winning real money at blackjack is not a sprint. You need to be able to cover the peaks and valleys that come with the wins and losses in a given blackjack round.
Mistake #4
You play out of turn. I get it — sometimes you get so excited you want to double down. It’s important to remember that there are often other players at the table and from right to left, clockwise, every player has a turn. You must wait till the dealer comes to you to make your action. It's not a big deal, the dealer will simply ignore your action until it becomes your turn. Should you persist you might get a ‘please wait your turn’ message from the dealer or pit boss.
Mistake #5
Commenting on other peoples’ play, or getting mad at their decisions. Not everyone is a seasoned blackjack strategist and card counter. Some people want to have fun and enjoy their time at the table. Getting mad at them will ruin their experience as much as it will yours. Keep in mind that sometimes a bad decision can save you. If the coin starts flipping the other way, stand up, thank the dealer, and find another table where the players are more familiar with basic strategy so it does not impact your game.
