Card counting is a strategic method utilized by professional and skilled gamers to determine when the chances are in their favor. This methodology allows gamers to trace excessive and low-value playing cards remaining within the deck, serving to them make smarter betting decisions. When the running ‘count’ of the playing cards is excessive gamers generally improve their bets and vice versa. Players counting playing cards will also make larger bets when the dealer nears the top of the shoe. Some card counters may even make side bets that conflict with primary strategy, similar to taking insurance coverage guess.