The hi-lo system is one of the most popular card counting methods in the world of blackjack. This article focuses on this time tested methods to tilt the odds in your favor.

The hi-lo system of counting cards is sometimes referred to as the point count system. This system works by assigning point values of +1, 0 or -1 to each card dealt to the players in a game of blackjack. Each card has its own value, with Aces and 10 point cards holding a value of -1. Cards 7, 8 and 9 are assigned a point value of 0, while 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 count as +1.

As each card is dealt, the player keeps a running count of the cards that have been shown, and he or she makes the betting decision based on the current total.

The higher the plus count is, the greater the advantage to the player. A high plus count means that there is a higher percentage of high value cards remaining in the deck, and this is an indication for the player to increase his or her wager.

If the running count remains around zero, it means that the deck is neutral, with neither the player nor the house holding a distinct advantage. If the minus count is high, the advantage belongs to the dealer, and this is an indication to bet only the minimum wager, or to leave the table altogether.

As more and more cards are dealt, the accuracy of this card counting method will increase, and decreasing or increasing the amount of the bet should yield greater results for the player.

Even though card counting can provide players with an advantage, the decision of when to hit and when to stand must still be based on sound betting strategy. Card counting does not automatically equal a winning hand, and it is still important to use common sense and sound strategy to achieve the best results.