How do you work out the true count?

Divide the running count by the decks still in the shoe. A running count of +6 with 3 decks left is a true count of +2.

How do I know how many decks are left?

Look at the discard tray and estimate to the nearest half deck. Most counters practise with stacks of cards until it's quick.

When does the player have the edge?

Roughly at a true count of +1 and above with good rules, since each point is worth about half a percent.

How much should I raise my bet?

A simple ramp: 1 unit up to +1, then 2, 4, 6 and 8 units at +2, +3, +4 and +5. Real counters size it to their bankroll to keep the risk of losing it all small.

Free tool

True count calculator.

Set your running count and how much of the shoe is left. You'll get the true count and a simple bet size in table minimums.

Running +6 ÷ 3 decks leftTrue count +2

Running count +6Cards left 3.0 decks

True count+2running ÷ decks left

Bet2×the table minimum

The same running count means more when fewer decks are left. A simple ramp: 1 unit up to a true count of +1, then 2, 4, 6 and 8 units at +2, +3, +4 and +5.

Numbers make more sense at a table.Take the 2-minute lesson

Questions people ask

How do you work out the true count?: Divide the running count by the decks still in the shoe. A running count of +6 with 3 decks left is a true count of +2.
How do I know how many decks are left?: Look at the discard tray and estimate to the nearest half deck. Most counters practise with stacks of cards until it's quick.
When does the player have the edge?: Roughly at a true count of +1 and above with good rules, since each point is worth about half a percent.
How much should I raise my bet?: A simple ramp: 1 unit up to +1, then 2, 4, 6 and 8 units at +2, +3, +4 and +5. Real counters size it to their bankroll to keep the risk of losing it all small.

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