Blackjack Strategy Trainer 21
The answer: do not split 5,5
A pair of 5s totals hard 10. Hard 10 is a premium hand. Splitting turns it into two weak hands starting at 5, which is much worse than playing the original 10 correctly.
How to play 5,5
| Dealer upcard | Correct play for 5,5 |
|---|---|
| 2 through 9 | Double if allowed |
| 10 or Ace | Hit |
Why splitting 5s is so costly
When you split 5s, each new hand starts at 5. A 10 gives you only 15. A 6 gives you 11, but you may not be able to double depending on the split and table rules. The original hard 10, by contrast, has a strong chance to become 20 or 21 with one card and is a clear double against weak and medium dealer cards.
Why players make the mistake
Many beginners learn "split pairs" before they learn why splitting exists. Pair does not mean split. The total matters. 5,5 is not a pair decision; it is a hard 10 decision.
Memory rule
Five-five is ten. Play it like ten, not like a pair.