Running Count in Blackjack
The running count is a cumulative total that card counters maintain as cards are dealt. It tracks whether the remaining deck is rich in high cards (favorable) or low cards (unfavorable).
How to Keep Running Count
Using the Hi-Lo system:
| Cards Seen | Value | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 | +1 | Add to count |
| 7, 8, 9 | 0 | No change |
| 10, J, Q, K, A | -1 | Subtract from count |
Start at 0 after the shuffle. Add or subtract as each card is revealed.
Example
Cards dealt: 5, K, 2, 8, A, 6, 3, Q
| Card | Value | Running Count |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | +1 | +1 |
| K | -1 | 0 |
| 2 | +1 | +1 |
| 8 | 0 | +1 |
| A | -1 | 0 |
| 6 | +1 | +1 |
| 3 | +1 | +2 |
| Q | -1 | +1 |
Running Count vs. True Count
Running count is the raw total. True count adjusts for remaining decks:
True Count = Running Count ÷ Decks Remaining
In multi-deck games, true count gives a more accurate picture of player advantage.