Blackjack is a casino game that is both a skill and a luck game. There are a few rules that players should follow to ensure a good game. Besides this, a basic strategy is also important in order to increase your chances of winning the game. Before you start playing, consider the amount of time and money you can afford to spend on the game. This will allow you to find a blackjack table that has reasonable betting limits for your bankroll. Keep a Running Count Before playing any blackjack game, you should practice keeping a running count. This is an easy way to make sure you are not making a bad decision or taking too many risks. The most effective way to practice is to play with a single deck of cards, turning over the cards one at a time and calculating their values. Once you’ve gotten the hang of it, you can switch to multiple decks. Use a Chart The best way to win at blackjack is to use a strategy that gives you the best move in every situation. This can be found in a chart that tells you exactly which play to make depending on the rules and the cards you and the dealer were dealt. Unlike other casino games, blackjack is a skill-based game. Having a good strategy will help you to avoid making some common mistakes that can cost you big time. Always try to play with people who are the same skill level as you. This will help you put yourself in a better position to win and will also give you an advantage over the dealer. Set a Limit and Stick to It The first thing you should do before you sit down at a blackjack table is to set a winning and losing limit. This will prevent you from wasting too much of your bankroll and from playing for hours on end if you are losing. You should also practice your basic blackjack strategy, so that you know what to do when you are faced with a tough choice. This can be done by reading a book, reading a strategy guide or just by focusing on the game and trying to get the right move every time. It’s also a good idea to practice the different strategies that are available, such as double down and splitting. This will help you to improve your chances of winning the game and make it more enjoyable. Don’t Be a Gambler It is very tempting to try and win at blackjack by taking risks, but this will only lead to failure in the long run. To win, you need to be able to resist temptation and control your emotions. Don’t play blackjack if you are under the influence of alcohol or after a long and stressful day at work. This can lead to a loss of concentration and an increased chance of making a bad decision.