True count calculator: a worked six-deck example

Running count ÷ decks remaining

For Hi-Lo, a running count of +6 with three decks remaining gives a true count of +2: 6 ÷ 3 = 2. With only two decks remaining, the same running count gives +3. The true count expresses the imbalance per remaining deck.

Build the running count first

Hi-Lo tags 2 through 6 as +1, 7 through 9 as 0, and tens and aces as −1. The sequence 2, 5, K, A, 8, 6 adds +1 to the running count. Record every exposed card in the tracked shoe, not just your own hand.

In EdgeLab21, the remaining-deck estimate comes from the starting deck count and recorded cards. If a six-deck shoe has 156 cards recorded, 156 cards remain: three decks. A running count of +6 therefore converts to +2.

Check an estimation error

Suppose you record +6 correctly but estimate two decks remain when three actually remain. Your displayed conversion would be +3 instead of +2. That can change an index comparison and a suggested stake. A precise division cannot compensate for the wrong deck estimate.

Keep the raw count and deck estimate visible. When comparing against a published strategy index, use that strategy’s stated conversion and rounding convention. Do not transfer Hi-Lo thresholds to an unbalanced count such as KO.

Try the calculation in the sample

The public blackjack sample starts with a clearly labelled teaching shoe. Enter the exposed cards to watch the running count and true count change. Open the sample settings to see the rules behind its playing decision and stake calculation.