Tried to count 1st time

[rennyboy]

I went to AC yesterday with the intention of trying to at least keep pace with the count. I practiced for a few weeks at home and didn't know if I would be able to do it. Man do I need more months of practice!! I was totally lost trying to keep the count and deciding what I needed to do with my cards, etc. I didn't have the full expectation of being able to count, it is too soon, but I had the urge to play. I played for 1 and a 1/2 hours, 2 hands, $25 each and was up $500 playing BS and took off. So it wasn't a waste. When I got home, in the mail was the Casino Verite software I ordered and I will be installing that today and practicing daily. Thanks for all the help,opinions and posts so far. I know I will be able to get it, but I like things done yesterday so I need to just relax and practice. I also got the KO book yesterday and I am waiting on the Blackjack Bluebook II.

[LeonShuffle]

Do you know basic strategy without having to think about it?

[rennyboy]

Yes, but I still have to think about a few hands, like soft 12-15 doubling, and 4-4 gives me trouble, that's it. So not 100% BS but close

[Automatic Monkey]

Originally Posted by rennyboy

Yes, but I still have to think about a few hands, like soft 12-15 doubling, and 4-4 gives me trouble, that's it. So not 100% BS but close

Yeah, the soft doubles are always confusing. They change significantly between S17 and H17 games, and even the uncommon rule where you can double on 3 or more cards changes BS for doubling.

At least on double and split plays you are expected to hesitate for a bit, so it's no big deal if you have to take a few seconds to remember what you're supposed to do.

[moo321]

Work on basic strategy first. That's got to be an autonomic nervous system response if you're going to keep up with a fast dealer.

[shadroch]

Bring the proper BS card with you and don't hesitate to consult it.

[EasyRhino]

I found it took me several "tries" before I could count even minimally proficiently. It was an interative cycle. Practice at home, go to casino, fail, go back home and practice, later rinse repeat.

Backcounting at the casino is a cheaper way to experiment with it.

[aslan]

Originally Posted by Automatic Monkey

Yeah, the soft doubles are always confusing. They change significantly between S17 and H17 games, and even the uncommon rule where you can double on 3 or more cards changes BS for doubling.

At least on double and split plays you are expected to hesitate for a bit, so it's no big deal if you have to take a few seconds to remember what you're supposed to do.

Plus, in AC all the games are pretty much the same.

[aslan]

Originally Posted by moo321

Work on basic strategy first. That's got to be an autonomic nervous system response if you're going to keep up with a fast dealer.

I'm new, too, and find that I must have plenty of rest between sessions to keep up with a fast dealer. But you will get to like the challenge of a fast dealer once you get the count ingrained in you and are well-rested. And it is better for you, if you think about it. The longer you play...

[aslan]

Originally Posted by moo321

Work on basic strategy first. That's got to be an autonomic nervous system response if you're going to keep up with a fast dealer.

And don't be afraid to take control of the pace. Just stop and think or consult your card no matter how the dealer pressures you to keep up with him. He shines with management if he deals more hands per hour, but that is not your concern. You shine if you can get through a shoe without losing the count or making a single BS mistake. It takes confidence to take control of the pace, but that's all it takes. I chide the dealer if need be, "You don't have any money in the game, but I do." Then I take as long as I please.