Blackjack is one of the most popular casino card games. It is played using one or more 52-card decks. Each card has a different value, from the number 1 for face cards to the Ace, which is worth either one or 11 points. The goal of the game is to create a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s. Players can choose to hit (request additional cards) or stand (keep their current two cards) based on predetermined rules.

Before dealing the cards, it is important to gather all players’ bets. Players place their chips in the designated betting box on the table. Once everyone’s bets are in, the dealer will shuffle and cut the cards. He or she will then deal each player two cards face up. The player can then decide whether to hit or stand, based on their initial hand value and the dealer’s up-card.

Some casinos offer a side bet called insurance, which pays the player 2-1 if the dealer has a blackjack. This bet is usually placed by the player after they have made their original bet and before the dealer reveals his or her hole card. The player can also double or split their cards, which changes the value of their hand.

After all the players have completed their bets, the dealer will reveal his or her hole card and compare it to the player’s hand. If the dealer’s hand is higher than the player’s, the player must hit; if it is lower, they must stand. If the dealer has a blackjack, the player will win the hand and collect the 2-1 payoff on their insurance bet.

If the dealer doesn’t have a blackjack, the player will lose their bet and receive one times their original wager (even money). This is why it is important to avoid taking even money if you are not a professional card counter.

Some players will opt to take even money if they are certain that the dealer has a blackjack. This is done because the dealer will not pay 3 to 2 for a blackjack when they have taken even money. This is why many dealers will advise players to take the insurance bet.

Once all players have finished their hands, the dealer will check his or her hole card for a blackjack. If they have a ten underneath, the dealer will have a blackjack and the player’s will be paid out at 3-2. However, if they don’t have a ten, the dealer will pay out their original wager and the insurance bet will be paid at 1 to 1. This is why it is important for players to learn how to count cards in blackjack. This way, they can make better decisions and increase their chances of winning. In addition, they will be able to maximize their profits by avoiding the dealer’s pitfalls. The best way to do this is to practice with an online blackjack simulator.