The Hi/Lo system is one of the simplest and popular card counting systems in Blackjack. With this system you add a value to each card that is shown on the table. There are three values: +1, 0 and -1. Every card in the deck has one of these values. All the high cards (Jack, Queen and King) and the Ace are assigned the value -1; neutral cards, i.e. 7, 8 and 9 are assigned the value 0 and 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 have the value +1.

Start with 0 and as each card comes up on the table, start adding the values. Let's say there are 3 players and the dealer at the table. Player 1 get a 5 and an 8 (+1, 0), player two gets a Jack and a 3 (-1, +1) and you get a 2 and a 3 (+1, +1). The dealer gets a Queen which means -1. When you add them all together you end up with a value of +2. Simple as that.

Counters use the Hi/Lo system to add or subtract one from the total. You also have to keep track of how many decks are left in the dealer's shoe. You can do this by using the "True Count" technique.

To simplify the counting process it is a good idea to learn how to combine the value of two cards at a time so you don't have to count every card separately, just the first two cards. Another useful tip to remember is that a good counter sits at the last seat at the table to get a good view of the cards as they are dealt.

And finally, practice at home before you use this technique at a casino. And when you have done that, practice some more. Take one deck, place the cards on the table and start counting. When you have gone through the whole deck, the "True Count" should be 0. When you can do a deck in 30-40 seconds you are ready to move on to the next stage.