Blackjack rules PDF

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games worldwide, known for its simplicity and strategic depth. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the rules is crucial for maximizing your chances of winning. This article provides a detailed guide on the rules of Blackjack, which you can also download as a PDF for future reference. Table of Contents Introduction to Blackjack Basic Blackjack Rules Card Values Gameplay Player Decisions Dealer’s Turn Payouts Advanced Strategies Download the Blackjack Rules PDF Introduction to Blackjack Blackjack, also known as 21, is a card game where the objective is to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 without exceeding it.

  • Cash King Palace
    new
    Royal Wins100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Starlight Betting Lounge
    Celestial Bet100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Lucky Ace Palace
    Luck&Luxury100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Spin Palace Casino
    Win Big Now100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Golden Spin Casino
    Luxury Play100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Silver Fox Slots
    Elegance+Fun100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Diamond Crown Casino
    Opulence & Fun100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Lucky Ace Casino
    Luck&Luxury100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Royal Fortune Gaming
    Opulence & Thrills100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more
  • Victory Slots Resort
    Spin to Win100% / $1500
    Casino popularity:
    Collecting more data...
    Payment methods
    • Mifinity
    • Google Pay
    • PIX
    • EcoPayz
    • Neteller
    • Apple Pay
    • Visa
    • Sofort
    • Interac
    • Wagering: 35 x (b)
    • Withdrawal time: 1 days
    • Minimum deposit to casino: $30
    • Bonus max bet: $5
    • Established: 2024
    • Free Spins: 200
    • 1st Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT22nd Deposit Bonus:100% / $1500 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT33rd Deposit Bonus:75% / $3000 + 75 Free Spins
    • Bonus code: FRUIT44th Deposit Bonus:50% / $4500 + 200 Free Spins
    • Leading selection of slots
    • VISA casino site
    • HD streaming casino games
    • Newly unveiled casino
    • Signup offer now available
    • Mr. Gamble special bonuses
    Show more

Source

  1. Blackjack rules PDF
  2. blackjack switch in atlantic city: rules, tips, and best casinos
  3. blackjack basic strategy pdf
  4. blackjack dealer rulesl
  5. play live blackjack online with real dealers - experience the thrill of real-time gaming!
  6. blackjack basic strategy pdf

Blackjack rules PDF

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games worldwide, known for its simplicity and strategic depth. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, understanding the rules is crucial for maximizing your chances of winning. This article provides a detailed guide on the rules of Blackjack, which you can also download as a PDF for future reference.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction to Blackjack
  2. Basic Blackjack Rules
  3. Card Values
  4. Gameplay
  5. Player Decisions
  6. Dealer’s Turn
  7. Payouts
  8. Advanced Strategies
  9. Download the Blackjack Rules PDF

Introduction to Blackjack

Blackjack, also known as 21, is a card game where the objective is to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 without exceeding it. The game is played with one or more decks of 52 cards.

Basic Blackjack Rules

  • Objective: Get a hand value as close to 21 as possible without going over.
  • Dealer’s Role: The dealer deals cards and must follow specific rules for drawing cards.
  • Number of Players: Typically, up to seven players can participate at a table.

Card Values

  • Number Cards: 2 through 10 are worth their face value.
  • Face Cards: Kings, Queens, and Jacks are each worth 10.
  • Aces: Aces can be worth 1 or 11, depending on which value benefits the player more.

Gameplay

  1. Betting: Players place their bets before the cards are dealt.
  2. Dealing: Each player and the dealer receive two cards. Players’ cards are usually dealt face-up, while the dealer has one card face-up and one face-down.
  3. Natural Blackjack: If a player’s first two cards total 21 (an Ace and a 10-value card), it’s called a “natural” or “Blackjack.”

Player Decisions

  • Hit: Request another card to improve your hand.
  • Stand: Keep your current hand and end your turn.
  • Double Down: Double your bet and receive one more card.
  • Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands.
  • Surrender: Some games allow you to surrender your hand and reclaim half your bet.

Dealer’s Turn

  • The dealer must hit until their hand totals 17 or more.
  • If the dealer has a soft 17 (e.g., Ace-6), they must hit.

Payouts

  • Blackjack: Pays 3 to 2.
  • Winning Hand: Pays 1 to 1.
  • Push: When the player and dealer have the same total, it’s a tie, and the bet is returned.
  • Insurance: If the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, players can bet on whether the dealer has Blackjack. Insurance pays 2 to 1.

Advanced Strategies

  • Basic Strategy: A mathematically proven method to reduce the house edge.
  • Card Counting: An advanced technique used to gain an advantage over the casino by keeping track of the cards that have been dealt.

Download the Blackjack Rules PDF

For a more detailed and printable version of the Blackjack rules, you can download our comprehensive PDF guide here. This PDF includes all the information covered in this article and additional tips for improving your gameplay.

By mastering the rules and strategies of Blackjack, you can enhance your gaming experience and increase your chances of winning. Happy playing!

blackjack basic strategy pdf

Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games, known for its simplicity and strategic depth. To maximize your chances of winning, understanding and applying basic strategy is crucial. A Blackjack Basic Strategy PDF can serve as an invaluable resource for both beginners and seasoned players. This article delves into the importance of basic strategy, what it entails, and how you can utilize a PDF guide to enhance your gameplay.

What is Blackjack Basic Strategy?

Blackjack basic strategy is a set of rules that dictate the optimal way to play your hand based on the dealer’s up card and your own cards. It is mathematically derived to minimize the house edge and increase your odds of winning. The strategy is based on millions of computer simulations and is universally accepted as the best way to play each hand.

Key Components of Basic Strategy

  1. Hit or Stand: Deciding whether to take another card (hit) or keep your current hand (stand).
  2. Double Down: Doubling your bet and receiving one more card.
  3. Split: Dividing a pair into two separate hands.
  4. Surrender: Giving up half your bet and ending the hand early.

Why Use a Blackjack Basic Strategy PDF?

A PDF guide offers several advantages:

  • Portability: Easily accessible on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
  • Printability: You can print out the strategy chart for offline use.
  • Searchability: Quick and easy to find specific scenarios.
  • Up-to-Date: Often updated with the latest strategies and tips.

How to Use a Blackjack Basic Strategy PDF

  1. Download the PDF: Find a reputable source for your Blackjack Basic Strategy PDF. Websites like Wizard of Odds or 888 Casino often provide reliable guides.
  2. Familiarize Yourself: Spend some time studying the chart. Understand the logic behind each decision.
  3. Practice: Use the PDF during practice sessions or online games where no real money is at stake.
  4. Implement in Real Games: Gradually start using the strategy in real-money games, but always be aware of the rules and variations of the specific blackjack game you are playing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Ignoring the Dealer’s Up Card: Always consider the dealer’s up card when making decisions.
  • Overcomplicating: Stick to the basic strategy chart. Deviating can lead to costly mistakes.
  • Not Adapting to Game Variations: Different blackjack games have different rules. Ensure your strategy matches the game you are playing.

Where to Find a Blackjack Basic Strategy PDF

  1. Online Casinos: Many online casinos offer free resources, including basic strategy PDFs.
  2. Gaming Websites: Reputable gaming sites often provide downloadable guides.
  3. Books and E-Books: Blackjack books often come with accompanying PDFs or charts.

A Blackjack Basic Strategy PDF is an essential tool for any serious blackjack player. By mastering basic strategy, you can significantly reduce the house edge and improve your chances of winning. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, having a reliable PDF guide at your fingertips can make all the difference in your blackjack journey.

casino blackjackl

Blackjack is one of the most popular card games in the world, and it’s a staple in casinos both online and offline. Known for its simplicity and strategic depth, blackjack offers players a chance to test their skills against the dealer. This article provides a comprehensive guide to casino blackjack, covering everything from the basics to advanced strategies.

What is Blackjack?

Blackjack is a card game where the objective is to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand without exceeding 21. Each card has a point value:

  • Number cards (2-10) are worth their face value.
  • Face cards (Jack, Queen, King) are worth 10 points each.
  • Aces can be worth either 1 or 11 points, depending on which value benefits the player more.

Basic Rules of Blackjack

  1. Objective: Beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 without going over.
  2. Dealing: Each player is dealt two cards, face up. The dealer receives one card face up and one card face down.
  3. Player Actions:
    • Hit: Take another card.
    • Stand: Keep your current hand.
    • Double Down: Double your bet and receive one more card.
    • Split: If you have two cards of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands.
    • Surrender: Some games allow you to surrender your hand and get half your bet back.
  4. Dealer’s Turn: The dealer must hit until their hand totals 17 or more.
  5. Winning: If your hand is closer to 21 than the dealer’s, you win. If you go over 21, you “bust” and lose.

Advanced Blackjack Strategies

1. Basic Strategy

Basic strategy is a mathematically proven method to determine when to hit, stand, double down, or split based on your hand and the dealer’s up card. It reduces the house edge to less than 1%.

2. Card Counting

Card counting is a technique used to gain an advantage over the casino. By keeping track of which cards have been dealt, players can estimate the likelihood of high-value cards coming next, allowing them to adjust their bets accordingly.

  • High-Low System: The most common card counting system, where 2-6 are assigned a value of +1, 7-9 are 0, and 10-Ace are -1.
  • Betting Strategy: Increase your bet when the count is high (indicating favorable conditions) and decrease it when the count is low.

3. Variations of Blackjack

  • Spanish 21: Removes all 10s from the deck, but offers various bonuses for certain hands.
  • Blackjack Switch: Allows players to switch the second card dealt between two hands, but the dealer wins all ties.
  • Double Exposure: Both of the dealer’s cards are dealt face up, but the dealer wins all ties.

Tips for Playing Blackjack

  • Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses.
  • Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the blackjack variant you’re playing.
  • Practice: Use free online blackjack games to practice your strategies before playing for real money.
  • Stay Disciplined: Stick to your strategy and avoid emotional decisions.

Blackjack is a game of skill and strategy that offers players a chance to beat the house. By understanding the basic rules, employing advanced strategies, and managing your bankroll effectively, you can enhance your chances of winning at blackjack. Whether you’re playing in a land-based casino or online, blackjack remains a thrilling and rewarding game for both beginners and seasoned players.

Blackjack rules

Blackjack, also known as twenty-one, is one of the most popular casino card games in the world. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer by having a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer’s hand without exceeding 21. Here are the basic rules to help you get started:

Objective of the Game

  • Beat the Dealer: Your goal is to have a hand value that is higher than the dealer’s hand without going over 21.
  • Avoid Busting: If your hand value exceeds 21, you “bust” and lose the game.

Card Values

  • Number Cards: Cards 2 through 10 are worth their face value.
  • Face Cards: Kings, Queens, and Jacks are each worth 10 points.
  • Aces: Aces can be worth either 1 or 11 points, depending on which value benefits your hand the most.

Game Setup

  1. Place Your Bet: Before the cards are dealt, place your bet in the designated area on the table.
  2. Dealing the Cards: Each player and the dealer are dealt two cards. In most games, the dealer’s first card is dealt face up, and the second card is dealt face down (the “hole card”).

Player Options

After receiving your initial two cards, you have several options:

  • Hit: Request another card to increase your hand value.
  • Stand: Keep your current hand value and end your turn.
  • Double Down: Double your initial bet and receive one additional card.
  • Split: If your first two cards are of the same value, you can split them into two separate hands.
  • Surrender: Some games allow you to surrender your hand and forfeit half your bet if you believe your hand is too weak.

Dealer’s Turn

  • The dealer must follow specific rules:
    • Soft 17 Rule: In many casinos, the dealer must hit if their hand totals 17 points with an Ace (a “soft 17”). In other casinos, the dealer must stand on all 17s.
    • Dealer’s Hole Card: The dealer reveals their hole card after all players have completed their turns.

Winning the Game

  • Natural Blackjack: If you are dealt an Ace and a 10-point card (a “natural” or “blackjack”), you win unless the dealer also has a blackjack.
  • Push: If your hand value equals the dealer’s hand value, it is a tie, and your bet is returned.
  • Insurance: If the dealer’s face-up card is an Ace, you can place an “insurance” bet. If the dealer has a blackjack, you win the insurance bet.

Common Blackjack Variations

  • Spanish 21: Uses a deck with no 10s, but offers various bonuses and rule changes.
  • Double Exposure: Both of the dealer’s cards are dealt face up, but the house edge is higher.
  • Pontoon: Similar to blackjack but with different terminology and rules.

Tips for Beginners

  • Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the blackjack variant you are playing.
  • Practice: Use free online blackjack games to practice and improve your strategy.
  • Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget and stick to it to avoid excessive losses.

By understanding these basic rules and strategies, you can enjoy a more informed and potentially more successful blackjack experience. Good luck at the tables!

Frequently Questions

What are the best sources for downloading Blackjack rules in PDF format?

For downloading Blackjack rules in PDF format, the best sources include reputable gaming websites like Casino.org and Gambling.com, which offer comprehensive and easy-to-understand guides. Additionally, academic and educational platforms such as Academia.edu and ResearchGate provide detailed PDFs on Blackjack strategies and rules. Official casino websites, like those of major gambling establishments, also frequently offer downloadable PDFs for their patrons. Ensure the source is reliable to get accurate and up-to-date information.

Where can I find a PDF to help me beat the dealer in Blackjack?

To beat the dealer in Blackjack, you can find a PDF guide online that offers strategies and tips. Websites like 888casino, Blackjack.org, and Wizard of Odds provide comprehensive guides in PDF format. These guides typically cover basic strategy, card counting techniques, and advanced tactics to improve your odds. Simply search for 'Blackjack strategy PDF' on these sites or use a search engine to locate a downloadable guide that suits your skill level. Remember, practice and understanding the rules are key to mastering Blackjack.

 

What strategies are covered in the 'Beat the Dealer Blackjack' PDF?

The 'Beat the Dealer Blackjack' PDF covers several strategies to enhance your blackjack gameplay. These include basic strategy, which outlines the optimal moves for each hand based on the dealer's up card, and card counting techniques that help predict the likelihood of high or low cards being dealt. It also discusses money management, betting systems, and how to recognize and exploit dealer errors. Additionally, the PDF provides tips on table selection and understanding casino rules to maximize your advantage. By mastering these strategies, players can significantly improve their odds of winning at blackjack.

Where can I find a PDF of blackjack basic strategy?

To find a PDF of blackjack basic strategy, visit reputable gaming websites like Wizard of Odds or Blackjack Apprenticeship. These sites offer free downloadable PDFs that detail the optimal moves for every possible hand in blackjack, helping you reduce the house edge. Ensure the source is credible to get accurate and up-to-date information. Additionally, online forums and casino review sites often share links to these resources. Always verify the strategy chart matches the rules of the blackjack game you intend to play for the best results.

Where can I find a comprehensive PDF guide on Blackjack rules?

For a comprehensive PDF guide on Blackjack rules, visit reputable gaming websites like Casino.org or Gambling.com. These sites offer detailed, downloadable PDFs that cover basic rules, strategies, and tips to enhance your gameplay. Additionally, online casinos such as 888 Casino and Betway often provide educational resources, including PDF guides, to help players understand the game better. Ensure you download from trusted sources to get accurate and reliable information.