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According to the rules of blackjack, if the player's hand has the same point total, they can choose to split the hand, dividing one hand into two. If the split hands result in the same point total again, the player can continue to split, but only up to three times. The fourth card cannot be split and must be used as the second card for the second hand. For example, if the player's hand is a pair of Kings, they can split the pair into two hands, each with one more card. If they then receive another King for each hand, forming two hands with a pair of Kings each, they can only continue to split the first hand, resulting in three hands. The pair of Kings in the second hand cannot be split again and must be used as a regular hand.
This splitting rule is often utilized by players in actual gameplay. However, many players tend to split pairs whenever possible to maximize profits, but the result is often turning their advantage into a disadvantage, not only failing to increase profits but also losing one hand. Regarding the timing of splitting, some blackjack experts abroad have summarized valuable practical experience. Let's take a look at when these experts choose to split.
Always split pairs of Aces. In the game of blackjack, an Ace is the only chameleon card that can be counted as either 1 or 11. According to the probability of blackjack, the chance of getting a 10, Jack, Queen, or King (representing 10 points) is 4 out of 13, much higher than the probability of getting other card values. Some players may think that a pair of Aces is a golden opportunity, as they could potentially get a Five-card Charlie. However, the actual probability of getting a Five-card Charlie is 3 out of 13, lower than the probability of making 21 by splitting. Therefore, if the hand is a pair of Aces, it is necessary to split them. Even if you are unlucky and do not get a 10, you may still get a 9 or an 8, resulting in 19 or 20, both of which are winning hands in blackjack.
Never split pairs of 6s. If the player's hand is a pair of 6s, they should never split them, as they may end up losing both hands. As mentioned earlier, the probability of getting a 10 is 4 out of 13. If we also consider the probabilities of getting an 8 or a 9, the probability of getting a hand totaling 14-16 points after splitting a pair of 6s is 6 out of 13, almost half. It is well known that in the game of blackjack, the dealer must draw to 16 and stand on 17. After splitting, if the player gets a hand totaling 14-16 points, it is awkward. If they continue to draw, there is a high chance of busting. If they stand, they can only hope for the dealer to bust, which is unlikely. In this case, what could have been a loss of only one hand turns into a loss of two hands.
The splitting rule is unique to blackjack and provides players with an opportunity to increase their advantage. However, when using the splitting rule, it is crucial to seize the right timing. Do not split pairs indiscriminately, as you may not only lose your advantage but also turn it into a disadvantage. The "Always split Aces, never split 6s" strategy mentioned above is the experience summarized by foreign blackjack experts based on actual combat. We can refer to and learn from it during the game, but we should not blindly follow it. Specific strategies should be based on the actual situation during the game. In general, accurately seizing the timing of splitting is the fundamental prerequisite for players to increase their profits. |
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