How to bet when holding 12 in online blackjack

Having 12 in blackjack requires a critical examination of your options

When holding a total of 12 in online blackjack, your decision should be guided by a combination of the dealer’s upcard, the specific variant of blackjack being played, and the basic strategy principles. A total of 12 is a tricky hand because it’s on the cusp of hitting and standing, and the goal is to maximize your chances of improving your hand without risking busting.

The dealer’s upcard is crucial in making your decision. If the dealer has a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, they are in a weaker position, making it more likely for them to bust. In this scenario, it’s generally recommended to stand on your 12, as the dealer’s chances of busting are higher.

Following basic strategy is essential in blackjack. According to basic strategy, if the dealer’s upcard is seven or higher, you should consider hitting on a total of 12. This is because the dealer has a better chance of making a strong hand, and you want to try to improve your hand to beat theirs.

It’s important to distinguish between a soft 12 (where you have an Ace and another card totaling 11) and a hard 12 (where you have two non-Ace cards totaling 12). If you have a soft 12, it’s generally better to hit against the dealer’s higher upcards to try and improve your hand without risking busting.

Some blackjack variants offer the option to double down. If the rules allow and the dealer’s upcard is weak (2 through 6), you might consider doubling down with a total of 12. Doubling down allows you to double your initial bet in exchange for receiving just one more card.

If you’re an advanced player and have a grasp of card counting techniques, you might adjust your strategy based on the count. However, card counting is complex and requires practice.