What Are Blackjack Charts?

If you ever sat at a blackjack table and saw someone pull out a small card full of boxes, colors, and numbers, no, they're not cheating.

That's a blackjack chart, and it is one of the smartest tools a player can use. It looks complicated at first, but it can help you make way better decisions at the table instead of just guessing and hoping for good cards.

What are Blackjack Charts?

A blackjack chart, or blackjack strategy chart, is basically a guide that shows you what to do in every possible situation, according to your hand and the dealer's upcard.

It shows you whether you should Hit, Stand, Double Down, Split, or Surrender, all based on the cards in play.

Think of it as a decision map.

There is math behind Blackjack, and these charts are built using probability to show the most statistically correct move every time.

How Blackjack Charts Work

Across the top of the chart, you'll see the dealer's upcard - from 2 through Ace. Down the left side, you'll see your possible hands. Where the two meet, the box tells you the best move for that combination.

Here's how it usually goes:

1. If you have 16 and the dealer shows a 10, the chart says Surrender or Hit, because the odds are against you.

2. If you have an 11 and the dealer shows 6, it says Double Down, because it's the best chance to win more.

3. If you have 8-8, whatever the dealer shows, the chart usually says Split, because two 8s are terrible together, but decent apart.

4. Every rule on the chart is supported by millions of simulated hands that show what works long-term.

Types of Blackjack Charts

• Basic Strategy Chart: Covers when to hit, stand, double, or split.

• Surrender Chart: Adds instructions for games that allow you to surrender.

• Soft Hand Chart: A hand that contains an Ace, such as A-6.

• Pair Splitting Chart: Shows which pairs are worth splitting and which aren’t.

Each one will help you refine your play, especially if you are moving between casinos or between different blackjack variations.

Why use blackjack charts?

Because blackjack is one of the few casino games in which skill actually counts. A good blackjack strategy chart can reduce the house edge from about 2% to less than 0.5%. That's huge. 

It doesn't guarantee a win every hand, but it keeps you making smart, consistent moves over time.

Tips for Using Blackjack Charts

• Memorize Slowly: Learn first the most frequent hands, such as when to hit 16 or double 11.

• Practice Apps: Many online blackjack games do indeed allow charts while you play.

• Check the Rules: Charts vary slightly for different numbers of decks and whether the dealer hits or stands on soft 17.

Conclusion: Blackjack Charts

Blackjack charts are all about playing smart. They take what seems like a luck-based game and make it one of math and reason. When you understand them, you stop second-guessing yourself and start playing confidently. 

So next time you sit at the table, remember: as a player, real pros don't guess; they follow the chart.

FAQs 

How does a blackjack chart work?

It mathematically calculates the best move (hit, stand, split, double) based on your hand and the dealer's up-card.

What is the 777 rule in blackjack?

If you get three 7s of the same suit in a row, you get a big bonus payout.

Is blackjack skill or luck?

It is a mix. Luck decides the card, but skill in using basic strategy cuts the house edge a lot.

Do you hit a 16 against a 7?

Yes as per basic strategy because the dealer's 7 is too strong to stand against.