When a player has an ace in any suit, they can play it to the middle to start a foundation pile. A foundation pile is a stack of ascending cards in the same suit played into the common area in the middle of the table. This rule is favorable to the player.Put a card in a foundation pile if it’s in suit and next in ascending order. You would play this as you would if you were doubling down on your first two cards. Some casinos will allow you to double down on your first two cards after splitting. After you play out this hand and stand, you will move on to the next split card and the process will be repeated. The dealer will give you a second card to go with the first split card. Neither will you play each hand one at a time. Do not put this bet on top of the original bet. You signal the dealer that you are splitting by placing your second bet next to your first bet in the betting circle. At which point you must make an additional bet equal to your starting bet.

Split a Pair – If you are dealt a pair (two cards of the same rank) you can split these into two separate hands.

You only double in favorable situations, and it is to your advantage to double for the maximum. Most casinos will let you double down for less than your original bet, provided it meets the table minimum. To signal that you are doubling down you will place an additional bet next to your original bet. Some casinos limit your doubling to hands that total 10 or 11. Most casinos will allow you to double down on any two cards (DOA). You then receive one card only on your hand.

Double Down – When you double down you are allowed to double your bet after receiving your first two cards.

You do this by waving your hand over the top of your cards.

Stand – Once you are satisfied with your cards, you signal the dealer that you wish to stand (not receive any additional cards).

If you wish another card after the first you motion in the same manner. To signal the dealer for a hit you tap the table in front of you or make a beckoning motion with your hand.

Hit - To take a hit means that you want to draw another card.

How to play the card game 21