Many experts and enthusiasts of the game will tell you without hesitation the only way to get ahead and really win money at blackjack is to count cards. OK, this we know. And we’re not going to go into definitions at this point regarding true count, high-low, conversion, etc… Please feel free to look them up if you’re unfamiliar.

This article will explore the benefits of trying to work by yourself at the table, or trying to hook up with a team and go the group route to counting cards.

What are the benefits of playing in a group? Practice, for one. You can not only go up against someone that isn’t your own brain, and thus unpredictability, collaboration and discussion are thrown into the mix, but having other people pushing back and you (and you them) will challenge you in a way unable to be accomplished through solo practice. Obviously during live play, having a system worked out with another player who knows the table already increases your odds. However, the dangers of playing with a team, to me, outweigh the advantages when it comes to actually stepping foot into the black jack casino. And, technically, teaming up to count is crossing that line. It’s too hard to keep movements to yourself without someone noticing, and if you’re not extremely careful, being in the same group, or even with the same one or two people, will catch the authorities eyes, and that’ll be the end of your tenure.

Playing alone keeps you under the radar, if not off of it. Plus you don’t have to worry about anyone other than yourself. What that’s important is because in a game where you’re focused on ever-changing numbers, trying to talk to yourself in your head while filtering out the bells, sirens and chatter of a casino, the less other distractions you have to worry about the better.

So which way to go if you’re a serious professional? Practice with a group, a team. Become extremely disciplined. Keep the group tight and small, but allow for new members to bring in a fresh perspective and ideas to constantly challenge your abilities. When it comes to live play, however, each of you should go it alone. This minimizes the risk and maximizes the preparation.