How to count cards in blackjack faster?

Question

How to count cards in blackjack faster?

Answer 1

The fastest way is the Imperial II method. This method counts only the small cards in the deck. Sit at 3rd base (the seat right before the dealer) and count just the 2,3,4,5 and 6's that come out. At a full table, about 6-7 players, you should see around 19-21 cards come out on average.

Start with a minimum bet, if you count 7 or fewer small cards, then keep you bet the same. If you count 8 or 9 small cards then increase your wager one bet. If 10 or higher small cards, then increase your wager 4 bets.

Obviously, this method will vary with the different amount of decks you have and a different number of players coming in and out. But, if you keep track after 5 or 6 hands, you should have a strong idea of what the count should be and you can capitalize by betting accordingly.

I have used the Imperial II with much success. If my explanation isn't clear enough or you want more detail, just search Imperial II Blackjack here on Yahoo and you will find out a lot more.

Good luck!

Answer 2

That imperial suggestion leads to essentially an unballanced count and playing decisions will be less accurate.

The easiest way to count faster is to just get so good at it and so used to it, that you dont even think about it, sometimes i find myself daydreaming while counting cards and i have no idea how i do it! but i have been doing it so long that i can.

-Count cards in groups, card combos cancel eachother out.

-sitting at third base give you extra time if needed to count up the table because other players need to make their plays before you need to make yours, so this is temporary fix.

-sitting at third or first base makes it easier to view all of the cards on the table since you dont have to turn your head.

-look for the paint on he card, not the leter k or j or q. sothat you  can regecnize the patern of "spots" on a card to identify a cards value, this takes less time than focusing your eyes onto the tiny number in the corner of a card.  This is especially obvious when dealing with a 2 or 3

Answer 3

Here's a way of keeping one number in your head:

Starting at 0, add 1 for each "10" value card [10, J, Q, K].  Subtract 1 for each card [3, 4, 5, 6].

Increase bets slightly for a total of [minus 6] or less.   Decrease bets for value [plus 6] or more.

A low value means lower risk.  A high value means that the deck has a lot of low cards that can help the dealer avoid busting.

Answer 4

Practice.

You've got to train your mind with whatever method you choose, whether that be Hi/Lo or the Imperial method. Nothing takes the place of experience, only practice will get you better.