Common Blackjack Mistakes to Avoid

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In the world of online casino gaming, users know not to play with their money. Each game comes with a unique and universal set of tips to follow and avoid in order to maximize success.

When playing online blackjack, there are certain guidelines all players should abide by to maximize their winning potential. If they don't and make mistakes, that could open the door to significant losses. Here are some tips on what not to do in blackjack.

READ MORE: How to Play Online Blackjack 

Hit on a soft 17. When a player's hand shows a soft 17 (Ace-6), they are typically instructed to stay because their chances of reaching over 21 are highly likely if they decide to hit.

Placing an insurance bet. Placing an insurance bet is based on an assumption that the dealer has blackjack, which is a separate bet that is half the amount of the initial wager. This is a mistake since your chances of being wrong will be much higher, which will result in you losing more money.

Trying to count cards. Counting cards in online blackjack is impossible, so players should stay away from this action at all costs. All players are dealt through an automated process

Splitting 4s, 5s, or 10s. When a player is dealt a pair of 4s, 5s, or 10s, they have the option to divide their hand into two separate hands. They should avoid this due to their diminishing chances of success. For example, a pair of 10s gives a player a high chance of winning unless the dealer has blackjack or splits their hand to get blackjack. Splitting 4s and 5s also forces the need for the player to get a certain amount in their starting hand or their chances of winning are significantly decreased.

Doubling your bet too often. This mistake applies to any game that involves wagering — doubling your bets too often will be costly and will put players in a compromising situation when playing against others.

Testing out different blackjack game variations. When immersing yourself in online blackjack gaming, it's wise to not shop around and play other blackjack game types. This is because the rules differ and you may end up losing more money unexpectedly.

READ MORE: Blackjack Glossary of Terms

Play a 6:5 blackjack game. Any player should avoid playing a 6:5 blackjack table for a very simple reason; the casino holds a major advantage because the overall payout will never be in the player's favor (ex. a $10 bet pays $12).

Not memorizing blackjack hand gestures. Just like poker, all blackjack players should memorize the main hand gestures that signify different decisions during the course of given game (ex. waving your hand over your cards to signify that you are standing with your current hand).

Consistently flat betting. If you are an overly conservative blackjack player and continue to bet the same amount, you will never gain the experience of betting and winning with higher wagers. What if you win big the first time you make a higher wager? You will never know unless you give it a shot.

Opting out of following the blackjack basic strategy. Players are given the opportunity (at most tables) to reference a basic strategy card that outlines all of blackjack's situations and outcomes. If you choose to go solo and not take the time out to follow along and memorize these guidelines, you will not be as successful in the long run.

READ MORE: Blackjack Tips for Beginners

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