Knowing how to count cards can help you win at blackjack. It is not complicated, and only requires basic math skills. This guide will show you the what you need to learn. Just read on to find out how to count cards.

If you want to win at single-deck blackjack nearly every time you play, you can help make that happen by reading this page on how to count cards. Card counting has been used by amateur and professional gamblers for years, and while it is not foolproof, it can certainly bump up your odds of success.

• Keep in mind that while counting cards is not technically cheating, casinos and many gamblers frown on the practice, and will react harshly if you are caught doing it. Exercise caution, and be very discreet if you decide to count cards during a serious game of blackjack.

Before you start counting, familiarize yourself with the ins an outs of blackjack. In a nutshell, each player is dealt two cards. The object is to get the total of the cards to equal as close to 21 as possible without going over. If you are very low, you may request more cards until you are satisfied or you bust. The dealer must have at least 17, or she/he must hit. For more detailed rules, see this page.

1. Cards 2-6 are low cards, and have a point value of plus one
2. Cards 7-9 are neutral, and are not assigned any value
3. Cards 10-ace are the high cards, and have a point value of minus one

When you get to the blackjack table, wait for a new shuffle. Then, count every card you see played by either adding a point to your total for low cards, subtracting a point for the high cards, or doing nothing when neutral cards show up. When your count is plus 2 or higher, it is time to bet.

• It will take some practice to get fast, but if you count for enough games you will become proficient and will not have to try so hard to focus.