Blackjack is a card game that pits players against the dealer. The player’s goal is to win by getting a hand that totals 21 points or better than the dealer. Although the game seems like it’s all luck and chance, there are strategies that can be used to increase a player’s chances of winning. These strategies involve counting cards, which is an advanced technique that can turn the tables in the player’s favor.

When the decks are shuffled, the players place their bets and the dealer deals two cards to each player face up. The players then decide whether to “hit” (ask for more cards) or “stand” (keep the current hand). If a player’s first two cards are an ace and a ten-card, giving them a count of 21 in two cards, it is called a natural or blackjack. This wins the player one and a half times their bet.

Some players choose to take insurance, a side bet that pays out 2:1 when the dealer has blackjack. This bet can make or break a player’s bankroll, especially if they have a count and know when the dealer is likely to have a blackjack. It is also important to understand the rules of the game before betting on insurance.

Dealers swipe the table twice during the game, once to open betting and again to close it. The action is usually accompanied by an announcement that bets are now closed to avoid confusion.

Blackjack dealers have a number of responsibilities, including creating an atmosphere and maintaining player satisfaction. They must be able to handle a wide variety of situations, from a difficult player to an unruly group. The ability to communicate effectively is also crucial for blackjack dealers.

In addition to dealing the cards, blackjack dealers must keep track of each player’s bets and payouts. Some dealers may be able to do this manually, but most casinos have switched to electronic systems that record bets as they are placed. These systems also help prevent fraud.

There are many different types of blackjack games, each with its own rules and rules for splitting, hitting, and standing. Some of these games use fewer than six decks, while others use more. In general, it is best to play a single-deck game if you want the highest odds of winning.