To calculate the true count in card counting, you first determine the running count by assigning point values to the cards dealt. In the Hi-Lo system, low cards (2-6) add 1 point, high cards (10-Ace) subtract 1 point, and neutral cards (7-9) don't affect the count. Once you have the running count, you adjust it by dividing it by the number of decks remaining in the shoe. This gives you the true count, which provides a more accurate assessment of the deck's composition. A higher true count indicates more high cards are left, which benefits the player, while a low or negative true count suggests the deck is rich in low cards, favoring the dealer. The true count helps guide betting decisions, with higher bets placed when the count is favorable.