There are some players that will argue that since blackjack is a card game it is based purely on luck. It is true that there is some luck involved due to variances during gameplay but an advanced blackjack player that reads up on material can better their odds at winning. Blackjack is an easy game to learn and play. Anybody can do it. But to be successful at it, you have to develop some skills at it. Among other things, these blackjack skills can be acquired through study and practice. There are systems out there to increase your edge and teach you how to win. However, not all systems work for everybody so sometimes a player must try out a couple of different systems before they find one that works best for them.
I am not going to give a list of skills that a successful blackjack player must possess. Blackjack is the type of game where players kinda have to figure out what works best for them. However, I can tell you about ways to improve your skills so that over time, you can be a better player. Be prepared. There is no quick-fire way to rapidly become a big blackjack winner. If you want to be successful, you need to invest the time required to learn all that you can.
The first method of improving your blackjack skills is to know the rules of blackjack. I am not talking about just knowing what every card's value is and knowing that if you go over 21 you lose. A player needs to know all the various rules such as when to double down, when to split, and why. Also, a player needs to know about the other types of blackjack such as Spanish 21, Pontoon, Atlantic City Blackjack, and so on. Each variation of blackjack has its own rules, as does a casino. Before you walk into a casino to play, do yourself a favor and know the house rules.
The second method for improving one's blackjack skills is through the learning of strategies and systems. There are several systems out there for blackjack players and each one will give you an edge over the house if used properly. There are blackjack strategy cards available that cross-references the player's hand versus the dealer's hand and then gives the best decision to make such as Hit, Stand, etc. If you are going to play blackjack in a live casino, I would advise you to try to memorize these cards. Also, knowing the odds for blackjack can only improve you blackjack skills.
Another good method for improving your skills is to talk to other skilled blackjack players. Find out what strategies they use, what books they have read, that has worked for them. Since blackjack is not a competition among players (such as poker) but rather is against the house, most blackjack players will be happy to share their secrets with you. Besides at live casinos, a good way to meet other players is online. There are a ton of reference sites that focus on the game of blackjack. A lot of them are by professional who have seen every card combination possible. A good place to improve those skills.
And finally, the best way to improve on your blackjack skills is through skillful blackjack practice. If you pick a system, practice with it. If it doesn't work for you, try another system and practice with it. This is what free online blackjack games are for; it gives you a chance to practice the game without risking any money. If card counting is the method for you, it requires a lot of practice to get really good at it. Only through the long haul will your blackjack skills improve.