But where did it all begin for this blackjack aficionado? The computer programmer with a passion for mathematics began analysing casino games as a hobby before starting his own website in 1997. If you’re interested in blackjack and learning about charts that teach you optimal plays, it’s likely that you may have already come across Shackleford’s well-known site. If you prefer to read on before getting to the nuts and bolts of blackjack play, we will introduce you to Michael Shackleford and also explain the importance of using the correct tactics when you sit down at a (real or virtual) blackjack table. Scroll down or click on the links below to jump to a specific section: Here are some of the blackjack strategy questions we will be looking at in this article. If you want to know why it’s important to have a basic strategy which will statistically increase your chances of success at the game, read on to find out more.

Note that Michael does not recommend using betting systems such as Martingale or Andrucci here, simply optimal strategy based on mathematical probabilities. Here, he provides you with incredible insight into how to get started with the game and how to develop a basic blackjack strategy. In this part of our comprehensive blackjack guides, designed to help you improve your game, we’ve conducted an interview with blackjack expert and industry leader, Michael Shackleford.