Learn the basic card values used in a counting system
Assign +1 to low cards like 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
Assign 0 to neutral cards like 7, 8, and 9
Assign -1 to high cards like 10, Jack, Queen, King, and Ace
Start the running count at 0
Add or subtract the value of each card as it is dealt
Keep a running count for all cards seen in the shoe
Convert the running count to a true count by dividing by the estimated number of decks remaining
Increase bets when the true count is high
Decrease bets when the true count is low or negative
Practice until you can count quickly and accurately while playing
Use a simple system like Hi-Lo to reduce mistakes
Stay within the rules of the casino and local laws