A popular game due to its relative simplicity, Blackjack is played around the world. However, whilst the basics are easy, the game itself is much harder to master. That being said, there are a number of strategies that can be employed to enormously increase the chances of being successful. Blackjack is a game between the player and the dealer. The aim is to reach but not exceed the value of 21. Wins can be gained by simply having a higher value than the dealer but less than 21. Finishing the round with a value higher than 21 results in a bust, and therefore a loss. Each round is only two cards, though a third can be drawn if either player or dealer chooses. However, the main part of a blackjack strategy does come at the very beginning. With just two cards it is important for players to know instantly whether this hand can carry them through or whether they should fold instantly. With this in mind, there are a number of basic strategies available for budding blackjack players. Before getting too stuck in, it is important to note that strategies depend on the variant of the game being played. American and European Blackjack have slightly differing rules regarding such things as doubling down and splitting, to mention a few. Basic strategy will help to bring the house edge down to just 0.5%, but this alone will not help you. There are numerous charts available online but, for the beginner, we suggest just memorizing one – and it has to be memorized completely! The chart simply contains a specific order of when certain events should happen, such as when to surrender, can you or should you split, to double or not and many more. Grasping these basics and learning a single strategy will stand you in good stead, though it is worth noting that you may start with one chart strategy and finish on another.