Blackjack Deviations: A Down-to-Earth Guide

Blackjack deviations are advanced strategic adjustments that go beyond basic gameplay, allowing players to maximize their edge based on the composition of the remaining cards.

I have spent many an hour at the blackjack tables, and trust me, basic strategy is not going to be enough all the time. That is when blackjack deviations come into play—those little adjustments we make depending on what remains in the shoe, particularly if we feel that there is a mix of high cards or low cards. Overall, these deviations can give us a tiny advantage. 

Starting with Basic Strategy 

Even before we discuss deviations, we need to have the fundamentals of strategy down cold—whether to hit, stand, double, or split. During my early years of counting, I was so enamored with the math that I overlooked doubling a sure 11 against a dealer’s 6. Lost opportunity, for sure. Lesson learned—as focused as you are on keeping your head on the count, you cannot drop the fundamentals. 

Card Counting: The Heart of Deviations 

Card counting involves giving a positive or negative value to each card: 

• Minus 1 to tens, face cards, and aces—these are your high cards. 

• Plus 1 to twos through sixes—these are low cards. 

• Zero to sevens, eights, and nines—neutral ground. 

For every card that appears on the table, you add or take away from your running count. You then figure out how many decks you believe are remaining and divide your running count by that amount. This gives you what is referred to as the true count. A high true count means the deck is full of big cards. If the count is low, then it is full of small cards. The higher your count, the better your advantage over the house. You can get detailed information about advanced card-counting techniques by reading this blog post.

Index Numbers and Trigger Points 

Each deviation has an index—a target number. If your count reaches or exceeds that standard, you change your usual play. 

Example: If you have a hard 16 and the dealer has a 10, you would normally hit. But with a high enough true count, you can stand instead. It is like your own little secret that the deck is full of tens and aces. 

Insurance is another one. Insurance is not generally a good bet. But if your count shows you have a higher percentage of aces and tens left, then insurance is a good consideration. I will admit, it still gets a few raised eyebrows from the other players, but you learn to ignore them. 

Common Deviations You Will See 

• Insurance when the count is very high. 

• Standing on 16 against a 10 if you believe the shoe is full of tens and aces. 

• Standing on 12 against a 4 if you calculate you will bust. 

• Splitting tens in unorthodox, favorable circumstances—this really baffles people. 

• Doubling down with soft hands when you believe the shoe is full of tens and aces. 

While not every divergence will be a cash earner, they add up over many sessions. 

Remaining Under the Radar 

Splitting tens is the biggest “Hey, everyone, look at me!” play. It will halt play at the table and bring some fairly ugly stares. Some players choose not to do it altogether, just to keep the drama and potential attention from the pit boss to a minimum. It is a gamble—you will be leaving a bit of money on the table, but you will be keeping some unwanted attention away. 

Common Slip-Ups and Why They Sting 

Let’s be real—card counting, conversation with neighbors, chip management, and drink ordering can be a mental juggling act. 

• Losing the running total for even a moment can throw your whole game strategy off track. 

• Making the wrong deviation—like getting the wrong index number—can convert what would have been a fine play into a clumsy mistake. 

As a learner, I was doing speed counts at home but sometimes forgot to count aces. That quickly taught me how important practice is. However, expect a brain freeze now and then—nobody is perfect. 

Easing Into New Tactics 

You do not need to commit a million exceptions to memory on day one. Most experienced players recommend starting with the ones you will be using most frequently, such as whether you should stand on a hard 16 or when to take insurance. Once you have them down, expand on them step by step. That way, you will not be in over your head and can concentrate on the strategies with the greatest reward first. 

Keeping Your Bankroll Solid 

Even the greatest counters experience losing streaks. Sometimes the dealer makes miracle cards, or you simply get beaten with bad hand after bad hand. If you have not built a solid bankroll, these swings will destroy you. I have been there myself on those nights when nothing was going my way, and frustration sets in rapidly. But with a solidly built bankroll and managed bet sizing, you have a much greater opportunity to weather the storm. 

Easy Steps to Begin Playing Deviations 

• Nail Down Basic Strategy. It is the rock-solid foundation. 

• Choose a Counting System. Utilize Hi-Lo or something else that is easier, provided you remain consistent. 

• Learn Some Key Adjustments. Focus on the most frequent events. 

• Practice at Home. Shuffle a deck or two, try an app, and get used to counting under pressure. 
• Keep a Record. Write down each time you deviate, how it turned out, and any mistakes learned.

FAQ

1. What are blackjack deviations, and why do they matter?

Blackjack deviations are strategic adjustments based on the remaining cards in the shoe. By making these changes—like standing instead of hitting in certain scenarios—you can reduce the house edge and improve your overall profitability.

2. Do I need to be a card counter to use deviations?

Yes, deviations are based on the true count, which requires card counting. Without knowing the count, you won’t have the right information to determine when to adjust your play.