Counting, canceling and the dealer's upcard

[countmein]

So the cards are all dealt to all players. I immediately scan, cancel, and get the running count.

Then, based on the hits that are placed, I update my count. So based on this, I have a few questions:

1) Is this the most effective way to cancel, or should I do it one player at a time as cards are dealt, split, etc...?

2) What is the best way to count the dealer's upcard? Should that 1 card be considered with all of the cards on the table, then update the count based on the dealer's play? Or should all of the dealer's cards be considered last, all at once?

I'm sure there are different opinions and strategies. Looking for some good insight. Wondering if the majority of experienced counters do this the same way.

Thanks

 

[Sonny]

1) Is this the most effective way to cancel, or should I do it one player at a time as cards are dealt, split, etc...?

It is usually faster, easier and more casual to scan the table and cancel out the cards.

2) What is the best way to count the dealer's upcard?

I like to count it when I scan the table, but whatever works best for you is fine. Here are some links from the Frequently Asked Questions thread (a good place to start):

Q: Should I count the cards one at a time or in pairs?
A: You should practice counting the cards in pairs and in groups of three. You will be able to count much faster and easier since most cards will cancel out.

http://www.blackjackinfo.com/bb/showthread.php?t=10616
http://www.blackjackinfo.com/bb/showthread.php?t=5201
http://www.blackjackinfo.com/bb/showthread.php?t=9392
http://www.blackjackinfo.com/bb/showthread.php?t=9518

-Sonny-

 

[countmein]

It is usually faster, easier and more casual to scan the table and cancel out the cards.



I like to count it when I scan the table, but whatever works best for you is fine. Here are some links from the Frequently Asked Questions thread (a good place to start):

Q: Should I count the cards one at a time or in pairs?
A: You should practice counting the cards in pairs and in groups of three. You will be able to count much faster and easier since most cards will cancel out.

http://www.blackjackinfo.com/bb/showthread.php?t=10616
http://www.blackjackinfo.com/bb/showthread.php?t=5201
http://www.blackjackinfo.com/bb/showthread.php?t=9392
http://www.blackjackinfo.com/bb/showthread.php?t=9518

-Sonny-

Thanks for the info. I knew that canceling cards is the best strategy, and that's how I have been doing it.

So, all players have their 2 cards dealt. Typically you would count/cancel all cards on the table (possibly excluding dealer's upcard). Then, as player 1 takes a hit or two, split, resplit, etc... you would update your count, paying mind to the cards already accounted for. Keeping track of these cards in itself is another level of practice, especially with a fast dealer.