Mastering the Art of Doubling Down in Blackjack
Intro
In the fast-paced world of blackjack, the decision to double down can often feel like standing at a fork in the road. This pivotal move not only affects the odds of your current hand but can also rattle the cages of your overall strategy. Understanding the nuances of doubling down—in both its risks and rewards—requires more than just a basic grasp of the rules.
This article delves into the mechanics of doubling down, shedding light on its application and implications. It’s about crafting a game plan that doesn’t just rely on luck; rather, it thrives on strategy and an understanding of probabilities.
In the following sections, we will explore optimal moments to double down, delve into advanced techniques, and uncover psychological triggers that can influence a player's decision-making process at the table. Also, we’ll examine how this maneuver fits into the grand tapestry of gambling strategies, ensuring you’re not just playing the game, but playing it with intelligence and foresight.
Understanding the Basics of Blackjack
When you sit down at a blackjack table, grasping the basic framework of the game is paramount. Understanding how it operates will not only enhance your enjoyment but also improve your chances of success. Blackjack is a card game where players aim to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 without exceeding it. The strategy behind doubling down is deeply intertwined with this foundation, making it crucial to comprehend before diving into the intricacies of the maneuver itself.
The Objective of Blackjack
At the heart of blackjack is a straightforward objective: to achieve a hand value higher than that of the dealer without surpassing 21. Players are dealt two cards, and the face value is calculated using standard rules — with numbered cards holding their face value, aces functioning as 1 or 11, and face cards valued at 10.
For example, if you are dealt a 10 and a 7, your hand value stands at 17. If the dealer shows a face card, such as a queen, you must assess your chances carefully since the dealer’s hand could potentially exceed or equal yours. Players often ask themselves: "Should I take a risk?" The doubled-down strategy adds layers of decision-making to this fundamental goal, particularly when players believe they can capitalize on favorable conditions.
Key Terms Every Player Should Know
To navigate through blackjack, familiarity with key terms is essential. Knowledge of the lexicon not only assists your communication with fellow players but also sharpens your strategic sense. Here are crucial terms that every player ought to grasp:
- Hit: Taking an additional card to improve your hand’s value.
- Stand: Choosing not to take any more cards, ending your turn.
- Double Down: Increasing your original bet by 100% in exchange for one additional card. This is where the strategic layer of the game begins to unfold, as it encapsulates both risk and reward.
- Split: If you are dealt two cards of the same value, you can split them into two different hands, each with a separate bet.
- Bust: Going over 21, resulting in an automatic loss.
- Soft Hand: A hand that contains an ace counted as 11 (e.g., Ace-7, totaling either 8 or 18).
- Hard Hand: A hand without an ace or one where the ace can only be counted as 1.
By understanding these terms, players create a solid foundation for making informed decisions throughout the game. The more you know, the better equipped you'll be to adapt your strategy, particularly when it comes to utilizing the double down effectively.
Knowledge of fundamental terms lays a cornerstone for sound decision-making in blackjack.
Grasping the importance of these basics can significantly influence how one approaches the strategy of doubling down. As you embark on the journey to master blackjack, building on these foundational elements paves the way for intricate strategies and nuanced decisions. Dive deeper into what doubling down entails and how it can serve your gameplay.
Defining the Double Down Strategy
In the high-stakes world of blackjack, the decision to double down stands out as a pivotal moment in play. It's not just a mere gamble; it’s a strategic maneuver that can determine the fate of your hand. Understanding this concept allows players to maximize their winnings when the odds are favorably tipped.
When a player doubles down, they effectively increase their stake by putting in a second bet after receiving their initial two cards. This move suggests confidence in the hand's potential, but it also highlights the importance of analyzing the game situation closely—a combination of intuition and statistical evaluation. Players must weigh the current value of their hand against the dealer's upcard, which takes know-how and a bit of guts.
Key Elements and Benefits of Doubling Down
Whether you're a novice dipping your toes into blackjack waters or a seasoned player looking to refine your strategy, grasping the nuances of doubling down is essential. Here are some vital considerations for any player:
- Greater WRProfit Potential: Doubling down magnifies possible earnings from winning hands. The immediate risk equates to a reward—betting more when the situation aligns increases potential payout significantly.
- Strategic Advantage: Implementing this tactic when the cards favor you can shift the odds slightly in your favor. Learning which hand combinations are best for doubling down helps in making sound decisions.
- Psychological Edge: Successfully doubling down against a strong dealer's upcard can disconcert opponents, which may lead to their errors later in the game.
However, it’s not just about jumping on the bandwagon; players can’t just double down on a whim. There are specific circumstances to consider.
What Does Doubling Down Mean?
Doubling down technically refers to the specific action in blackjack where a player doubles their original bet after the first two cards and is subsequently dealt only one additional card. This is allowed after receiving your first two cards, and it requires a conscious choice reflecting both confidence and strategy.
In simpler terms, if you feel your hand is stronger and you have a shot at improving it with just one more card, that’s your cue. For instance, if you hold a total of 11, often referred to as a "sweet" spot, doubling down is a common practice because the odds tilt towards drawing a ten-valued card for a strong total of 21.
From a wider perspective, doubling down represents the interplay between risk and reward. You’re not merely increasing your stake; you’re banking on a favorable outcome based on available information.
The Mechanics of Doubling Down
Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of how doubling down works in a game of blackjack.
- Initial Bet: Start with a standard bet for the round. After the dealer doles out the cards, assess your hand and the dealer’s upcard.
- Decision Point: If you feel the cards align well—let's say you have a hand value of 10 or 11 against a dealer’s weaker upcard—here’s where you throw caution to the wind. You signal your intention to double down, which usually means placing an additional bet equal to your original amount next to it on the table.
- Receiving One More Card: After that, the dealer hands you one more card. This card is crucial; you won’t get any further cards after this, making the choice to double all the more critical. Based on this card, your hand is finalized.
- Outcomes: After all players complete their hands, the dealer reveals their cards, and it’s a showdown. If your hand wins, you collect double the amount of your original bet. If it loses, you lose both bets—risk realized.
Understanding these mechanics is essential for players dedicated to mastering blackjack’s intricacies. In summary, carefully choosing when to double down can turn the tide in your favor, potentially amplifying wins but always accompanied by inherent risks.
Remember: Doubling down can yield great rewards, but bet wisely. Missteps can empty your pockets just as quick!
Optimal Situations for Doubling Down
In blackjack, knowing when to double down is crucial to enhancing your gameplay. Doubling down isn't just a matter of chance; it's all about having the right circumstances to make the move worthwhile. Players must evaluate both their hand value and the dealer's exposed card to make this strategic decision. Here, we delve into understanding the favorable conditions that can tip the odds in your favor.
Understanding Hand Values
The value of your hand plays a pivotal role in determining whether you should double down. Below are some key considerations:
- Hard Hands: If you start with a hard hand of 9, 10, or 11, the potential to hit a strong total is high. For instance, doubling down with a total of 11 can be one of the most advantageous moves. Imagine drawing a face card; you’ll end up with a total of 21.
- Soft Hands: A soft hand which has an Ace valued as 11 is also ideal for doubling down. For example, if you have A-2 or A-3, doubling down against certain dealer cards, like a 5 or 6, can be prudent. The flexibility of the Ace allows for a better chance of hitting a valuable card.
"Doubling down on the right hand can be the difference between walking away with a win or losing your stake."
- Weak Dealer Cards: Knowing your hand's strength is important, but it’s equally crucial to watch the dealer's upcard. If the dealer shows a weak card, like a 4, 5, or 6, this increases the chance they’ll bust. Thus, it makes sense to double down and maximize your potential returns on favorable hands.
An essential strategy is to memorize the basic strategy chart, which outlines when to double down based on hand values and dealer cards. This serves as a concrete foundation during play, helping make quick, strategic decisions without second-guessing.
Dealer Cards: What to Watch For
The dealer's hand can either be a player’s best friend or worst enemy. When evaluating your situation, it’s imperative to comprehensively assess the dealer's upcard. Here’s what to consider:
- Weak Cards (2-6): The rule of thumb is that when the dealer shows a weak card, there’s great potential for you to win. Doubling down here is often advisable, especially if your hand is a hard 9, 10, or 11. You’re in a solid position as the dealer is more likely to bust.
- Medium Cards (7-9): If the dealer has a card in the range of 7 to 9, it's a mixed bag. Here, the decision may depend on your hand value. For instance, if you hold a 10 against a dealer's 7, the numbers would suggest doubling down could be viable.
- Strong Cards (10-Ace): If the dealer shows a face card or an Ace, it’s time to tread carefully. Doubling down should not be an automatic reflex here, especially if you have a weaker hand. Instead, analyze your own hand and consider the likelihood of the dealer accumulating a higher total.
To summarize, doubling down in blackjack requires a keen understanding of both your hand values and the dealer’s exposed card. When you make informed, calculated decisions in optimal situations, you not only maximize your winning potential but also enhance your overall gambling strategy. Embed this knowledge in your practice, and it will serve you well at the tables.
Statistical Implications of Doubling Down
Understanding the statistical implications of doubling down in blackjack is vital for players who aspire to elevate their game. This strategy, while seemingly straightforward, carries with it a myriad of statistical factors that can drastically influence outcomes at the table. If one doesn’t grasp the underlying mathematics, the risk of losing real money escalates significantly.
By comprehending expected values and analyzing risks, players can make informed decisions that could sway the results in their favor. Doubling down isn’t merely about intuition; it warrants a critical examination of probabilities and potential payoffs. Let's dive into the details.
Expected Value and Risk Analysis
When considering to double down, players need to evaluate the expected value. Expected value, or EV, is a predictive measure that indicates the average outcome of a particular bet if it were repeated numerous times.
For doubling down, the expected value can be calculated based on the player's total and the dealer's showing card. If, for example, you have a total of 11 and the dealer shows a weak card like a 5, the expected value for doubling down is likely to be positive. Essentially, this means that over many hands, taking the risk could yield better returns than opting for a normal hit or stay.
However, it’s crucial to account for volatility and risk as well. While the upside can be alluring, losing double your bet can hit hard if luck isn’t on your side. Here are some key points worth considering:
- Positive EV Situations: Doubling down is favorable when you have a total of 10 or 11 against a dealer’s weaker card, as the probability of drawing a ten-value card is higher.
- Risk Management: Proper risk assessment might mean refraining from doubling down when the dealer shows a strong card, thus preserving your bankroll for better opportunities.
- Sample Scenario: If you’re at a table where the dealer’s upcard is a 6, and your total is a 9 or 10, doubling down might lead to a situation where you can capitalize on the dealer's possible bust.
Comparing Winning Probabilities
Another critical aspect when discussing the implications of doubling down is the winning probabilities associated with various scenarios. Knowing when it is statistically beneficial to double down can mean the difference between a rewarding session and a bust.
The probabilities vary depending on the hand values and the dealer’s upcard. For instance, let’s look at two different scenarios:
- Player’s Total 10 vs Dealer’s 6:
- Player’s Total 11 vs Dealer’s 5:
- Probability of hitting a 10-value card: Approximately 30.8%
- The likelihood of winning if you double down in this situation is enhanced given the dealer’s higher risk of busting.
- Here, the chance of drawing a 10-value card increases as you would only need one solid draw to potentially secure a win.
In contrast, doubling down against a strong dealer card, such as an Ace or 10, significantly decreases winning probabilities, making it a less prudent decision. Therefore, understanding and interpreting these statistics is not just about mastering bingo numbers; it merges analytical skills with strategic foresight.
Remember, the essence of successful doubling down lies not just within your own cards but also in keen observation of the dealer’s tendencies.
The ability to grasp these statistical details substantially enhances the effectiveness of your gameplay. In the fast-paced environment of blackjack, this strategic nuance can transform novice players into competent strategists.
Psychological Factors in Decision-Making
In the fast-paced world of blackjack, the decisions a player makes can often be dictated by more than just simple numbers and strategies. Emotions, pressures, and past experiences can loom large and sway choices at the table. Understanding these psychological factors not only enhances your ability to play but can also contribute to a more enjoyable experience overall. When it comes to doubling down, being mindful of how mental states can affect your strategy becomes crucial.
Pressure and Emotional Responses
Feeling pressure is par for the course in gambling environments. Whether it’s the superficial glamour of the casino or the palpable tension at the table, emotions run high. When you decide to double down, the added stakes can amplify your reaction to the game. An unexpected card can cause joy or horror, affecting how future decisions are made.
- Pressure to Win: Many players buckle under the weight of expectations—either their own or those from friends who may be watching. This pressure can lead not to rational thought but rather to impulsive decisions that disregard the statistical likelihood of success.
- Fear of Loss: Losing a bet is one of the hardest aspects of gambling, but fear of losing can lead players to second-guess their decisions. If someone finds themselves about to double down with a weak hand, this fear may lead them to back out, possibly missing an advantageous moment.
- Excitement and Overconfidence: On the flip side, feeling on a winning streak can sometimes cloud judgement, leading to decisions fueled by overconfidence. If the cards have been kind, a player might recklessly double down on unfavorable hands that they would have otherwise passed on.
Realizing these emotions are part and parcel of the game allows players to prepare and ensure they’re making the best decisions without being swayed by fleeting feelings.
Influence of Past Experiences
The legacy of past experiences also shapes a player's decision-making process at the blackjack table. Each round played, every victory celebrated or defeat endured, builds a mindset that influences future bets, especially when doubling down comes into play.
- Learning from Mistakes: A player who has previously managed to double down successfully on a particular hand is likely to remember that moment. This past success might encourage them to take risks again, even when the situation does not warrant it. However, on the contrary, if a player remembers a time they doubled down only to be met with a bad hand and a loss, that memory could instill hesitation, leading to overly cautious play.
- Reputation and Social Influence: If someone has seen or heard of a friend’s success—or misfortune—while doubling down, that social aspect plays a significant role. Each round will bear the weight of these stories, feeding into a player’s confidence or fear.
Recognizing that these psychological factors are at work helps players become more critical of their decision-making process. Armored with awareness, the gambler gains the ability to shift past emotions and experiences into clearer thought, ultimately increasing the effectiveness of their strategy at the blackjack table.
"Winning isn't everything. It's the only thing." – This adage drives many players, but a balance must be struck, combining emotion with fact to make well-rounded decisions.
Equipping oneself with the understanding of these psychological nuances allows players to navigate their gambling experience more thoughtfully, leading to wiser betting choices, especially when doubling down becomes a tempting option.
Integrating Doubling Down into a Broader Strategy
Doubling down in blackjack is not just an isolated tactic; it needs to blend seamlessly into a player's overall strategy. This integration can enhance results, reduce losses, and create a more structured approach to the game. Understanding how to align this specific move with larger strategies will not only boost confidence but also improve decision-making during play.
Building a Balanced Approach
A balanced approach involves evaluating all aspects of gameplay, ensuring that doubling down is one facet of a greater game plan. It’s important to consider the interplay between risk and reward; a player shouldn't make impulsive bets based on emotional responses or superficial observations.
Here are some key aspects to focus on when building a balanced approach:
- Hand Evaluation: Knowing when to double down relies heavily on a player's hand value and the dealer's visible cards.
- Adaptability: Each game situation can differ significantly; players must be prepared to adjust their strategies accordingly.
- Financial Management: Set a budget for how much one is willing to bet on a double down; this ensures more sustainable play.
- Probabilities and Stats: Familiarity with the odds of winning when doubling down enhances the calculation of potential outcomes.
This coherence between doubling down and other strategic elements creates a strong foundation. For instance, proper hand evaluation might indicate doubling down on a value of 11 while opting for caution when holding weaker cards, like 12 through 16, against a strong dealer's hand.
When to Reassess Your Strategy
Reassessment of strategy is an essential component for becoming proficient in blackjack. As one plays more hands, situations will evolve. Here are times where reassessment might be necessary:
- Game Dynamics Shifting: If there’s a significant change in how the game is played or if specific patterns arise, it may indicate a need to rethink positioning.
- Bankroll Fluctuations: Changes in bankroll can determine whether aggressive tactics like doubling down should be incorporated or avoided.
- Learning and Fine-Tuning: After experiencing wins or losses, reflecting on outcomes helps refine understanding and adjust future play.
- Psychological States: Recognizing emotional influences, such as frustration or overconfidence, can help players temper their strategies effectively.
Being aware of when to recalibrate one's approach can save players from substantial losses. It also allows them to implement lessons learned from past hands effectively. Staying adaptable while doubling down within a larger strategy is not only wise but essential for long-term success at the table.
"A flexible strategy is your best friend at the blackjack table. Just when you think you have it all figured out, the cards can turn the tide."
Common Mistakes When Doubling Down
Understanding the common pitfalls associated with doubling down is crucial for anyone serious about improving their blackjack strategy. Even seasoned players can stumble into traps that can severely affect their overall success at the table. By being aware of these mistakes, players can approach the game more strategically and enhance their odds, turning the odds slightly more in their favor.
Mistakes often stem from misjudgments of the situation or from emotional impulses, leading players to act rather than think. In blackjack, where every decision counts, the implications of these errors can reverberate well beyond a single hand. Below, we delve into two particularly damaging mistakes that players tend to make.
Misreading the Situation
One of the biggest blunders in blackjack is misreading the table dynamics. Players sometimes let their intuition get the better of them, thinking they have a solid grip on a hand, while the details slip through the cracks. Failing to accurately assess the dealer's upcard can lead to poor decisions about whether or not to double down.
For instance, doubling down when the dealer shows a strong card, like a 10 or Ace, often implies giving the house a rather favorable advantage. Many players might feel confident after seeing their own hand totals, but overlooking the potential of the dealer's upcard can be like playing with one hand tied behind your back. Here are a few common things that players misread:
- The Value of Their Hand: Players can get carried away by a promising initial hand, thinking they have potential without fully considering the numbers.
- Dealer Behaviors: Sometimes, a player's perception of a dealer's demeanor or past outcomes might cloud their judgment regarding real statistical probabilities.
- Table Positioning: The position at the table can alter the strategy needed for doubling down; what works for one player may not translate for another in the same circumstances.
Ultimately, making the right call involves more than just a gut feeling. Players should always weigh their options against the statistical odds and hand values.
Emotional Betting Practices
Betting based on emotion rather than statistical reasoning can lead to a quick demise at the blackjack table. It's easy to get swept up in the thrill of the moment, especially during a hot streak when players feel invincible. However, this often leads to doubling down in situations not backed by sound reasoning.
When emotions take the reins, players may make rash decisions. For example, if a player has lost several hands in a row, they might feel compelled to double down as a means to "win back" their losses. This can turn into a downward spiral, leading to even heftier losses. Here are aspects to remember about emotional betting:
- Chasing Losses: Trying to recover lost funds by doubling down impulsively can result in deeper losses than before.
- Confidence vs. Reality: A win can make a player feel overly confident, causing them to double down on not-so-favorable hands based on a temporary high.
- Stressors Outside the Game: Life events or personal stress can cloud one’s judgment, making it easy to overlook crucial game dynamics when gambling.
"Betting with a clear mind rather than a frantic heart is the key to maintaining a winning strategy."
Awareness of emotional tendencies and committing to rational analysis alike can dramatically improve decision-making abilities when it comes to doubling down in blackjack. By recognizing potential pitfalls, players put themselves in a better position to capitalize on the betting opportunity instead of wrestling with unforeseen consequences.
The Role of House Rules in Doubling Down
Understanding how house rules affect the doubling down strategy is essential for any blackjack player. The term "house rules" refers to the specific regulations that a casino puts in place regarding gameplay, and these can vary significantly from one establishment to another. This variance can directly influence a player’s chances when deciding to double down, making it a critical aspect to grasp.
Variations Across Casinos
Each casino may adopt its own set of house rules governing how and when players can double down. For instance, some casinos may only allow doubling down on certain total values, such as 10 or 11. Others might permit doubling down on any two initial cards, expanding players’ options considerably. Additionally, there are casinos that might even allow players to double down after having split their cards. Such variations can have profound implications on strategy.
Moreover, casinos might have different rules regarding payouts after doubling down. In some locations, if a player doubles down and then wins, the payout might be 1:1 instead of the typical 3:2 for a blackjack. Understanding these particular rules and adjusting your strategy accordingly is pivotal.
"Always read the fine print of the house rules before you sit down to play. It can be the difference between a good night and a bad one."
Impact of Deck Composition
The composition of the deck used in blackjack can influence the effectiveness of doubling down. For instance, a shoe with fewer decks (like a single or double-deck shoe) may offer players a better opportunity to predict outcomes than a six or eight-deck game. In these more complex games, the minuscule changes in card distribution change the general odds, making it harder to assess whether to double down.
Typically, in games with fewer decks, the player’s chances may improve for hand values that are best suited for doubling down—such as 10 or 11. In contrast, with multiple decks, the house edge may slightly rise, and players need to make an informed decision. Thus, while the straightforward advice is often to double down on 10 or 11 against lower dealer cards, deck composition can make this general strategy require a rethink.
Responsible Gambling Practices
Responsible gambling is the backbone of maintaining a healthy relationship with the thrill of blackjack and other casino games. It emphasizes the need for players to approach gambling with awareness and discipline. When it comes to doubling down in blackjack, a strategy that can amplify both wins and losses, understanding responsible gambling becomes even more pivotal.
Being mindful of one's betting behavior is crucial. Having a clear set of personal guidelines can prevent the slippery slope into reckless gambling. This means taking control of your finances by assessing how much you can afford to lose before stepping into the casino or logging onto an online platform. It’s not just about winning; it’s about playing smartly and with prudence.
Setting Limits and Understanding Risks
Setting limits is like having a well-laid map before embarking on a journey. It helps you navigate the ups and downs of your gambling experience. This includes both financial limits—deciding how much money to allocate for a session—and time limits—how long you plan to play. Establishing these boundaries before the first bet is placed can keep the enjoyment of gambling intact, preventing the rush of adrenalin from turning into regret later on.
Understanding risks related to doubling down is equally essential. When this move is made, players are betting not just their initial stake but also additional money on a single hand, amplifying both the potential for winning big and the chance of losing more. Therefore, being aware of the risk associated with doubling down can better inform your decision-making. Here are a few considerations:
- Know Your Hand: Some hands have better odds for doubling down. For example, a total of 11 is often a favorable position.
- Watch the Dealer: Understanding the dealer’s upcard can inform if it’s worth taking the risk.
- Assess Your Mood: If you're feeling uncertain or emotional, that may not be the best time to double down. Trusting instincts is important, but they can be swayed by your emotional state.
Recognizing When to Walk Away
The ability to walk away from the table can be just as important as the strategies for playing. Recognizing when to stop is half the battle won.
Every gambler has off days; sometimes, tables aren’t in your favor, and doubling down might lead to loss after loss. Knowing when to step back is about self-awareness and understanding that not every session will end in profit. Signs that it might be time to walk away include:
- Mounting Losses: If the losses stack up and you find you are chasing them, it’s usually a signal to take a breather.
- Feeling Overwhelmed: If emotions start to take over—whether it’s stress, anger, or excitement—it may be time to pause.
- Breaking Your Own Rules: If you find yourself ignoring the limits you’ve set for yourself, recognize that it’s a dangerous territory and call it a night.
Ending: Mastering Doubling Down in Blackjack
Mastering the art of doubling down is an essential element of becoming a proficient blackjack player. It’s not merely a strategy but rather a tactical decision that can shift the momentum of the game, offering both opportunities and risks. Throughout this article, we've dissected the various facets of the doubling down strategy, analyzing when to apply it and the implications it holds for your overall gameplay and approach.
Importance of Doubling Down
Understanding when and how to double down is crucial for enhancing your winning potential. By grasping the mechanics behind this move, players can exploit favorable situations, especially against weaker dealer cards. It’s about reading both your own hand and the dealer’s face card, enabling a strategic advantage. Players equipped with this knowledge stand a higher chance of maximizing their bankroll and achieving success.
Benefits of Doubling Down
- Increased Winning Potential: Doubling down can amplify the bets when conditions are right, potentially leading to lucrative payouts.
- Pressure on the Dealer: By doubling down, you not only augment your own prospects but may also create pressure on the dealer to perform against you, disrupting their game plan.
- Psychological Edge: Activating this strategy at the right moment can tilt the psychological scale in your favor, as you appear confident and knowledgeable at the table.
Considerations in Applying Doubling Down
Several critical aspects must be weighed before deciding to double down. Knowing your hand values, understanding the dealer’s cards, and recognizing your own betting limits can greatly influence the effectiveness of this strategy. Additionally, it’s vital to be mindful of the house rules applicable at various casinos; these rules may affect how and when you can double down, tying back to our earlier exploration of house variations.
Final Thoughts
"Successful gambling is about managing the SKILL involved and knowing when to take calculated risks. Doubling down, when done right, is a key part of that skillset."
By internalizing these concepts, you’ll not only improve your gameplay but also find a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of blackjack. The next time you sit down for a game, remember the strategies discussed here, and let doubling down work its magic for you.
