How do I calculate my expected return in blackjack?

[Jonah]

To calculate your expected return in blackjack, you need to consider the house edge, which represents the casino's advantage. This edge typically ranges from 0.5% to 2% if you're playing with basic strategy. For example, if you're betting $10 and the house edge is 1%, your expected loss would be 10 cents per hand. If you're using advanced strategies like card counting, your return could improve, depending on the deck's composition. Additionally, the payout for a blackjack (3:2) affects your overall expected return, as it increases your winnings in the long run. Ultimately, expected return is a long-term average, and short-term results can vary significantly due to variance.

 

[CR7]

Your explanation about calculating expected return in blackjack is quite accurate. Understanding the house edge, which is the casino's advantage in each game, is crucial for assessing your expected return. Basic strategy helps minimize this edge, but it's important to note that the house always has an advantage.

When determining your expected return, it's vital to consider factors like bet size, house edge, and potential outcomes like blackjack payouts. Card counting is a strategy used to gain an advantage over the casino by tracking the ratio of high to low cards in the deck. This technique can shift the odds slightly in favor of the player, leading to better expected returns in the long run.

It's important to remember that blackjack is a game of probabilities and that short-term results can vary significantly due to luck and variance. Players should always practice responsible bankroll management to weather these fluctuations and optimize their overall expected return over time.

 

[Lazza]

Each hand in blackjack has a slightly lower than 50% chance of winning. You can anticipate winning roughly 42-49% of the time, though the precise odds can change depending on the game's rules and the number of decks used.