Blackjack Shuffle Tracking FAQ
What is shuffle tracking?
Shuffle tracking is the practice of tracking cards during a shuffle in blackjack.
What is the purpose of shuffle tracking?
The aim of shuffle tracking in blackjack is to be able to tell the player where and when certain cards are going to appear during play. When high-value cards like 10s and aces are expected, the player will bet more money. The opposite is done when low-value cards are present.
How is shuffle tracking done?
First, the shuffle tracking expert in blackjack performs card counting during play. This tells him or her what cards are in the discard tray and what were left unplayed by the time the next shuffle comes. Next, the shuffle tracking expert watches how a dealer shuffles the cards. A blackjack dealer will cut the deck(s) into different parts, riffle them and re-stack them together. Once the expert in shuffle tracking knows the method, he or she simulates the shuffle with his or her own chips which symbolically represent the different parts of the deck(s). At the end of the shuffle, the shuffle tracker has a good idea where the needed cards are.
What is card cutting in shuffle tracking used for?
Card cutting is used to put undesirable cards out of play. If you know where the bad cards are, you will cut in such a fashion as to put them as near to the bottom as possible. Since blackjack dealers shuffle before 100% of the deck/shoe is used, this puts the bad cards out of action.
Is shuffle tracking identical with card counting?
No. Card counting merely shows you what cards are used during play in blackjack. Once the decks are shuffled, you are back to zero (literally). In shuffle tracking, the process is continuous from one shuffle to the next. This makes shuffle tracking more accurate and effective.
Who can practice shuffle tracking?
Blackjack players who have been practicing card counting and basic strategy for a long time will find it easier to practice it. If you are a complete novice, it will be harder for you. You should learn basic strategy first; then card counting. When you can do both with perfect ease, you can try shuffle tracking.
Is shuffle tracking in blackjack illegal?
No. But casinos have a right to evict you if they catch you doing it.
Can shuffle tracking be used in other games, like baccarat?
Shuffle tracking has met with success only in blackjack so far. It is not really useful in baccarat according to those who have tried it.
Can shuffle tracking be practiced in online blackjack?
Usually no. Shuffle tracking works in online blackjack only if the software handles the decks the way a live dealer does. If the cards are shuffled after every hand, shuffle tracking becomes useless.
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