Most people with even a rudimentary level of gambling experience know a few basic elements of blackjack strategy. In fact, it is the very ease with which novices can grasp the game that accounts in large part for its perennial popularity.

However, its would be shortsighted to mistake blackjacks user-friendly nature for total simplicity. There are in fact a number of fairly sophisticated elements that will invariably factor into the game play of a truly seasoned blackjack gambler. The purpose if this article is to lay out five strategies or tips that you can count on to serve you well whenever youre involved in a game of blackjack. These tips apply with equal effectiveness to both internet blackjack and the type of games you would find in a genuine brick-and-mortar casino.

The first rule to think about is where you are playing is to always look for a table whose minimum is no more than 5% of you total amount of betting funds. In picking a table, consider rule variations that help the player, like the option of doubling down on any two cards, or the dealer having to stand on soft 17. These rule variations can work to your advantage, but it may take a bit of proactive snooping to sniff them out.

Once youve selected a good table, you should approach the game itself with an eye toward the basics. For instance, always remember that the dealer has to hit on any hand totaling 16 or lower, which means you'll never win with less than 17 unless the dealer busts. Take a hit on any hand below 17 when the dealer shows ace, K, Q, J, 10, 9, or 8. Why? Because these cards are unlikely to make the dealer bust. Stand on any hand above 11 when the dealer shows a 4, 5, or 6, cards that will frequently cause the dealer to bust.

Doubling down can be a remarkably effective strategy at the right time. This involves doubling your bet and receiving one additional card when your suspect that you will beat the dealer by doing so. Double down with 10 against a 9 or lower and with any hand of 11. Rules permitting, double with 9, or with "soft" hands (hands that count an ace as 11) of 13 through 17 against a 4, 5, or 6.

Next, remember that if you are dealt two cards of the same value, you may always split them, which means playing two hands and doubling your bet. Always split 8s or 7s against a dealer's card of equal or lower value. Always split 2s or 3s against a 4, 5, or 6. Always split aces, no matter what the dealer is showing. Never split face cards, 10s, or 5s.

Finally, know when to walk away. This measuring stick of failure may vary from one player to another, but a good rule to follow is that if you lose three consecutive hands at one table, its time to get up and try your luck elsewhere. Dont ever let emotion come into play. Resist the urge to want to beat a dealer because he or she has taken so much of your money. Thats a losing strategy every time.