Proper Etiquette for BLACK JACK?

Question

ok..I am a Complete NOVICE at BJ.....

question..is it ok to ask the dealer a question?

or

Do you just plunk your money down?

also, are you supposed to change your Cash into

chips BEFORE you come to the table?

Answer 1

You can change your money at the table. You can certainly ask the dealer a question. They cannot tell you how to play your money, but they can answer your questions. They can tell you what basic strategy dictates that you do. They can offer suggestions. Not every dealer will do that, but if you ask them, they should answer. I always did..

Answer 2

I'm a dealer.

Firstly, you can certainly ask a dealer a question; some casinos allow the dealer to tell you how to play your hand (In Vegas they are liberal that way); where I deal, the supervisor can tell you what basic strategy says and let you make your decision.  Most casinos in their gift shop sell a basic stategy card for a buck or two and that helps out as far as decisions you want to make.  At our casino, they allow it right on the table.

Blackjack players are fussy and superstitious about everybody playing "right" at the table (according to basic strategy), especially if you are the "anchor", the hand immediately to the right of the dealer that can determine the dealer's cards.  If you are unsure of yourself you may be best to stay away from this spot, as you tend to take more heat at this spot if you "play wrong"...sit anywhere in the middle of the table and the onus will not be on you so much to determine the dealer's hand, as there will likely be players drawing after you.  These players can get testy at times and you may find it very stressful if they are intense players.  Not to discourage you, but you may just find that is how it is.  You may get lucky and find a "fun" table where everyone just wants to have a good time.

Big thing here..."proper etiquette" at blackjack is to ASK if you can come in on a hand before you buy in and start to play.  If they are having a good run, they may want you to sit out a hand or two, so it is a courtesy to ask.

You buy your chips at the tables with cash, and then exchange your winnings (hopefully!) back at the cashier's cage.  They can not give you cash back at the tables.

Have fun!!

Bottom line..relax and enjoy yourself..this is not brain surgery, and if you find you are at a table where you are not feeling comfortable, just move on to another table.  There are plenty of them.

Answer 3

It probably depends on your location and the place. In general, though, it is totally acceptable to ask the dealer a question. Just be straightforward, though, and don't slow the game down. Also, you normally turn your money into chips right at the table.