Mathematicians and blackjack experts have designed computer simulations and statistical analyses to determine that you can reduce the house's advantage considerably (in the short term, at least) by following this strategy:

If you can't remember the preceding chart or don't have it with you, follow these simple rules

Hard Hands (when an Ace must be counted as one)

• Always stand on hard 17 to 21.
• Stand on hard 13 to 16 if the dealer's face up card is 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6.
• Stand on hard 12 if the dealer's up card is 4, 5 or 6.
• Hit hard 13 to 16 if the dealer's face up card is 7 or higher.
• Hit hard 12 if the dealer's up card is 2 or 3, as well as 7 or higher.
• Double down on 11 if the dealer's up card is anything but an Ace. Just hit against an Ace.
• Double down on 10 if the dealer's up card is anything but an Ace or a 10-value card. Just hit against an Ace or 10-value.
• Double down on 9 if the dealer's up card is 3, 4, 5 or 6. Otherwise, hit.
• Hit totals of 8 or less.

Soft Hands (Ace counted as a one OR an eleven)

• Always stand on soft 19 or 20.
• Stand on soft 18 if the dealer is showing 2,7 or 8.
• Hit on soft 18 if the dealer is showing 9,10 or Ace.
• Double on soft 18 if the dealer is showing 3,4,5 or 6.
• Hit on soft 17 if the dealer is showing 2, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
• Double on soft 17 if the dealer is showing 3,4,5 or 6.
• Hit on soft 15 or 16 if the dealer is showing 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
• Double on soft 15 or 16 if the dealer is showing 4,5 or 6.
• Hit on soft 13 or 14 if the dealer is showing 2, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 or Ace.
• Double on soft 13 or 14 if the dealer is showing 5 or 6.