Strategy

Pairs

Two cards of the same rank (e.g. 8♠ 8♥). Practice when to split versus hit or stand — split decisions have a big impact on your edge.

Level 2 hands

The toughest beginner spots: hard totals 12–16 and soft hands through soft 18. These stiff hands are where most players lose the most EV.

Level 3 hands

Advanced decisions: pairs, double-down totals (9–11), high hard hands (17–20), and soft 19–21. Often involves doubling, splitting, or surrender.

Hard hands 12–20

Hard two-card hands totaling 12 through 20 — no ace counted as 11. Covers stiff hands (12–16) and pat hands (17–20).

Hard hands

Any hard hand totaling 12 or more — either no ace, or an ace that must count as 1. Includes all stiff and standing hard totals.

Mix of hands

Random hands from every category, like a real shoe. Best for testing overall readiness before you play at a table.

Soft hands

Hands where an ace counts as 11 (e.g. A♣ 7♦ = soft 18). The ace’s flexibility changes whether you hit, stand, or double.

Double downs

Hands where doubling is often correct — hard 9, 10, and 11 plus soft 13–18 (A–2 through A–7). Learn when to press your advantage versus hitting.