True Count in Blackjack
The true count is the running count divided by the number of decks remaining in the shoe. It gives a more accurate measure of the player's advantage in multi-deck games.
Why True Count Matters
A running count of +6 means different things depending on remaining decks:
| Running Count | Decks Left | True Count | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| +6 | 6 | +1 | Small |
| +6 | 2 | +3 | Moderate |
| +6 | 1 | +6 | Large |
The same running count is more valuable when fewer decks remain.
Calculating True Count
True Count = Running Count ÷ Decks Remaining
Example with 6-deck shoe:
- Running count: +8
- Approximately 2 decks remaining
- True count: +8 ÷ 2 = +4
Using True Count
Card counters use true count to:
- Adjust bet sizes (higher bets at higher true counts)
- Make playing deviations (strategy changes at extreme counts)
- Decide when to leave a table (negative count)
Most systems consider true count of +2 or higher favorable for increased betting.