Don't be afraid to bet. If you are not up to it, don't gamble.

Based on statistical probability, it is suggested that a player should only raise the bet when the spread between the two initial cards is seven or greater, where the player's edge is 54%. The player's edge rises to 85% when the spread is 11 and lowers to 8% when the spread is only one.

"Blackjack is the only casino game an amateur can learn to play and at which he can definitely win." - Lawrence Revere, author, Playing Blackjack as a Business