Hi-Lo System
The Hi-Lo system is one of the easier and more popular
card counting systems for blackjack. The Hi-Low consists of assigning a point value of +1, 0, or -1
to every card dealt to the player. Each card is assigned a specific point value
in the Hi Lo System. Aces and 10-point cards are assigned a value of -1.
Cards 7, 8, 9 each count as 0. Cards 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 each count as +1.
| 2 | 3 |
4 | 5 |
6 | 7 |
8 | 9 |
10 | A |
| +1 | +1 | +1 | +1 | +1 |
0 | 0 | 0 | -1 | -1 |
If player 1 is dealt a 3 and 9 (+1, 0), player 2 has a 10 and a 5 (-1, +1),
player 3 has a 7 and a 2 (0, +1), and the dealer's upcard is an Ace (-1), the running
count in a single deck would be +1. That's not too bad, right?
All a counter using the Hi-Lo System must do is add and subtract by 1 and
keep a true count of the deck. Try to look at a two cards at once and
figure out the combined count so you aren't tallying every single card.
Also, a good card counter will sit at 3rd base (last position to be dealt at the table)
so he/she can easily see the cards being dealt. This is a very simple
system but if you play it right, you can get great results.
To become a proficient card counter in blackjack when you are at the casino it is important to
practice at home. Try using the Card Counting Tutor to practice in
a realistic situation. You can also practice at home. Keep track of the running count using the
hi-lo system. When you finish the deck, the count should be at 0. When you can get through the entire
deck in 30 seconds with no problems, you have become quite proficient.
