By Samantha Williams

There are not a great many mistakes we can make when playing blackjack, the same applies to playing online blackjack, however, the ‘no mistake’ rule only applies when playing by Basic Strategy, or Basic Strategy Plus. Stick to the strategy plan, and everything turns out OK, but just in case you have decided to break all the rules, there are a few mistakes to avoid and we take a brief look at some of these.

Don’t play because it “Feels Right” – There is no such thing as feels right when playing online blackjack, this is a very straightforward game, and unless you are John Edwards, we don’t even contemplate feel. Losses due to bad luck don’t cut the mustard, there is only bad play. If you have got a feeling ignore it and stick precisely to basic strategy.

Forget about insurance – Insurance is not the only sure bet in blackjack, no matter what the dealer says. The dealer has always been wrong on this wager and he does not want you to win anyway. It is a complete waste of a bet, and you never make more money in the long run by taking out insurance – unless of course you are a card counter, then it’s a different story.

Double down more regularly – sometimes the timing is right to double your bet, sometimes its not. Not enough players double down and there are specific situations when doubling down should take place. Statistically speaking when the edge is yours to win the hand, you should always take the plunge. Don’t see this as a leap of faith, see it as good strategy. If you are too afraid to take the risk, you shouldn’t be playing online blackjack – go back to the penny slots. Tip: memorize as many double down combinations as you can.

Never think you are due – you are not! No online blackjack or any card player ever is. If you are on a losing streak, you can and will lose again; the same applies to winning. Hand histories carry no influence on the outcome of what the next hand will be, and odds remain unchanged. Tip: card counters use advanced statistical techniques to calculate winning odds, it is not only about counting cards.

There is no bad table position – in poker this applies, in blackjack there is absolutely no bad position at the table – get over it.

Cut your losses and surrender – there is a reason why some games of blackjack allow the player to surrender, take advantage of this when need be. Again, revert back to blackjack strategy.

Speaking of strategy – always have your strategy card up to date and at your right hand, even in a live casino; it’s allowed! Play by strategy, strategy, strategy and blackjack is one of the few casino games, where you can almost beat the house edge, but only when using strategy!