Another method for determining the
probablity of a higher than normal percentage of high point cards being
dealt (which is an edge to the player) is known as cluster counting, or
shuffle tracking.
This method is based on the observation that cards tend to
"cluster" in certain parts of a multi deck shoe, and that the
shuffling of the cards at the conclusion of a shoe can be tracked by a
player so that he can determine which portions of the next shoe will be
high in player friendly cards. A breakdown of this method follows.
- When playing a new shoe make note of
the flow of cards while mentally dividing the shoe into sections
equal to one deck.
- Now you need to observe which portions
of each section that are high in Aces and ten-point cards.
- Rate each section as being rich or
poor in high cards and then make note of how the cards are placed in
the discard box.
- At the end of each shoe, watch how the
dealer shuffles the new shoe. Keep track of where the clusters of
high cards are located, and where they will surface in the dealing
of the next shoe.
- When playing this next shoe, increase
your wager when you reach those sections of the shoe that are rich
in high point cards, and decrease your wager when the deck is rich
in low point cards.
Unfortunately, shuffle tracking is very hard
to master, and casinos have taken measures to defeat its effectiveness.
Some counter measures used by casinos include using two discard racks,
changing the pattern of the shuffle, and by using automated shuffling
machines. You may still run across blackjack tables where this method
can be used, and if you are willing to practice and learn the technique,
it can be effective.
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