Learn the Basic Blackjack Table Layout

Your average, everyday, run of the mill blackjack table is a semi-circle that has enough room for five to seven players. It is traditionally covered in green felt and always has the casino logo printed on it. Standard tables are three feet by five feet. It's important to pay attention to the writing on the table, which describes the pay out, what total the dealer will stand on and what the insurance pays. It's also critical to pay attention to the instruction card that is placed in front of the dealer that lists the rules as well as the min/max betting that is allowed.

From the Player's Perspective
For the player, the table is equipped with a drink and chip holder. There are little circles in front of each player to place their betting chips. Once a chip is placed down, it cannot be touched again. The seat to the far left of the dealer is known as first base and the seat to the far right of the dealer is known as third base. These are good terms to know when you want to feel like a big shot in front of the other players. Also, it doesn't matter where you sit at the table, everyone has an equal chance of winning at any of them.

From the Dealer's Perspective
The dealer stands behind the table. There is a chip set in front of the dealer as well as a money slot. The money slot is where the money goes when put on the table. To the left is the shoe where the cards are dispensed, and to the right, is the spot for discarded cards. Cards are dealt from the dealer's left to the right. If only one deck is being used, a player will asked to cut the deck and the cards will be dealt face down. When there are multiple decks, cards will be dealt face up from the shoe.