But how do we best determine how many cards remain? In order to do this game of online blackjack , we use the discard tray and work our way backwards. If we’re playing in a six-deck game and about two decks are sitting in the discard pile, then by process of elimination we know that about four decks remain in the shoe; Remember, as the number of decks in the discard tray gets higher, the number of decks remaining (and the number we use to divide the running count by) gets smaller. And a small number used to divide into any positive running count is a good sign, for it means we’ll likely end up with an elevated true count.
But rather than go through the process of elimination each and every time we need to calculate the true count, we’ll instead come to learn and use what’s called a “conversion factor.” In our case, the conversion factor represents the number of decks remaining based on the number of decks already sitting in the discard pile. The goal is to streamline the process such that with just a quick glance at the discard pile we’re able to divide the running count by a number (the conversion factor) to arrive at the correct true count of best blackjack strategy. And the only way to really become proficient at determining accurate conversion factors is to secure a good number of decks (preferably new decks or used ones in very good shape, for we’re most interested in deck heights) and simulate different amounts sitting in the discard pile. Decks of cards may be available for purchase at your local drug or dollar store, or at even better prices online where gaming supplies are sold. (Decks are sometimes available for free at casino cages, upon asking.)
For an eight-deck game, you’ll need about forty-six decks of cards; for a six-deck game, twenty-eight decks; for a four-deck game, fourteen decks; and for double deck, three decks. (Note: for single-deck blackjack, we employ other methods to arrive at the correct true count, covered in detail in Chapter Ten.)
To be continued…
