Blackjack is a card game that involves beating the dealer. The goal is to get a higher total than the dealer without going over 21 (busting). It is common for beginners to play defensively and give up too much to the house, but expert players know how to make the most of every opportunity. They will hit their hands when they should stand, and split and double when the odds favor it. They will also double against a dealer’s 5 and 7; they will stand on 16 against a dealer’s 2; and they will not hesitate to split a pair of 2s against a dealer’s 10.

The rules of blackjack are simple: Each player is dealt two cards, and the dealer has one card facing up and one hidden (the “hole card”). The dealer may offer insurance if the face-up card is an ace. This side bet is half the original wager and pays 2-1 if the dealer has blackjack. If the dealer has blackjack, all the players who have not busted lose their bets; if they all have blackjack, it is called a push and the dealer sweeps everyone’s bets.

During the course of a game, the dealer will swipe the table twice to open and close betting. This is a quick, right-to-left motion and is usually accompanied by the dealer saying, “No more bets,” to prevent confusion. Players have less than a minute to place their chips before the dealer swipes the table again and the game begins.

There are several strategies for playing blackjack, and some players even use card counting techniques to gain an advantage over the dealer. However, it is important to understand the rules of blackjack before you start playing.

You can play blackjack with a friend or with the dealer. If you are playing with a friend, it’s helpful to agree on a bankroll before you begin. This will help you keep track of your winnings and losses, and will avoid any disagreements over money.

If you are playing with a dealer, it is also good to decide in advance how you are going to act on each hand. You should try to avoid arguing with the dealer, as this will only distract you and can lead to a loss.

The best way to practice your blackjack strategy is by playing online games for fun. Most online casinos offer free versions of the game that you can use to develop your skills. You can also find sites that provide you with tips and tricks for improving your strategy. The key to success in online blackjack is to have the right mindset and to follow sound strategy. You can also learn a lot about blackjack by reading books such as The Everything Blackjack Strategy Book: Surefire Ways to Beat the Dealer, by Tom Hagen and Sonia Weiss. This book has a detailed explanation of the basic rules of the game, as well as many different strategies for achieving a successful outcome.