The smartest way to play the game is to first get to know the basic strategy. But remember, two key factors effect which strategy to choose: a) number of decks in use, and b) house rules.
The Basic Strategy Tables will help improve your chances of beating the dealer. Even if the rules vary, following the basic strategy works. So, print out the tables and go play!
Now don't think that you will always win? Like the saying goes, you will win some, and lose some, but you should at least break even by following the basic strategy.
Basic Strategy for Single Deck Blackjack Basic Strategy for Multi-Deck Blackjack House Edge when playing Basic Strategy Insurance Surrender How does card counting work?