If you’ve ever watched someone at a blackjack table calmly tracking cards like a movie character, you might think card counting requires genius-level math skills. The truth? You don’t need advanced math — you just need the right system. And the easiest one for beginners is the Hi-Lo Card Counting System. It’s simple, powerful, and widely used because anyone can learn it with practice.
In this guide, we’ll break down the Hi-Lo method step-by-step so you can understand how it works, how to practice it, and how to apply it without drawing unwanted attention at the casino.
What Is Card Counting?
Card counting is a method used in blackjack to track whether the remaining cards in the deck favor the player or the dealer.
When the deck is rich in high cards (10s, face cards, Aces), the player’s odds improve.
When the deck has more low cards, the dealer gains the advantage.
Card counting doesn’t guarantee wins — it simply helps you make smarter bets and better decisions over time.
Why Hi-Lo Is the Easiest System
There are many counting systems, but Hi-Lo is the simplest because:
- It uses only three values: +1, 0, and –1
- You count one card at a time
- It works in most casino blackjack games
- Beginners can learn it in under 30 minutes
More advanced systems exist, but Hi-Lo is the perfect starting point.
How the Hi-Lo Counting System Works
The core idea is simple:
Assign each card a value and keep a running tally called the Running Count.
Card Values in Hi-Lo
| Cards | Value |
|---|---|
| 2–6 | +1 |
| 7–9 | 0 |
| 10–A | –1 |
Low cards = +1
High cards = –1
When you see a card:
- Add +1 when low cards leave the deck
- Subtract –1 when high cards leave the deck
- Ignore 7–9 because they don’t impact odds much
As the Running Count climbs higher, the deck becomes more favorable for players.
The True Count — The Secret to Accuracy
Casinos often use multiple decks. To adjust for this, convert the Running Count into a True Count:
True Count = Running Count ÷ Number of decks remaining
This number helps you make more accurate decisions.
When to Raise Your Bets
Only increase your bet when the deck favors you.
- True Count +1 or higher: Small raise
- True Count +2 or higher: Bigger raise
- True Count +3 or higher: Maximum bet (without being obvious)
Smart players only gamble aggressively when they have the advantage.
Practice at Home First
Before ever using it in a casino:
- Shuffle a deck
- Say the value of each card aloud as you deal it
- Your final count should end at 0
- Aim for counting a deck in under 25 seconds
There are also apps and online trainers that simulate real casino speeds.
How Not to Get Caught Counting
Card counting is legal, but casinos can still ask you to leave.
Keep it low-key:
- Don’t stare at the cards intensely
- Don’t change your bets drastically
- Make casual conversation
- Occasionally lose small hands intentionally
- Avoid using your phone at the table
The best card counters blend in.
Should Beginners Count Cards in Casinos?
If you’re brand new to blackjack, practice basic strategy first.
Once you’re comfortable and confident, layering in the Hi-Lo system can give you an extra edge.
Card counting won’t make you rich overnight — but it does improve your chances long-term if used responsibly.
Final Thoughts
The Hi-Lo system is the easiest and most effective way for beginners to start understanding card-counting concepts. With enough practice, you’ll learn when the odds tilt in your favor and how to use that information to manage your bets wisely.
Card counting isn’t magic. It’s math, discipline, and patience — and anyone can learn it.
Kevin Collier is the founder of BlackjackBetter.com, where he helps beginners learn blackjack in a simple, stress-free way. After years of studying basic strategy and breaking down real gameplay situations, he created this site to help new players avoid common mistakes and understand the game step by step. His writing focuses on clarity, confidence, and smarter decision-making at the table.
