When playing baccarat, knowing when to draw is an important part of the game. To play baccarat, the rules surrounding when to draw will help you navigate the game successfully. Here are the basic drawing rules of baccarat:
- If the player or banker has a card total of 8 or 9 on their first two cards, they do not draw new cards.
- If a player has a card total value of between 0-5 they must draw an extra card. If they have a value of 6 or 7, they stand.
- The banker draws an extra card depending on the outcome of the player.
Here is a chart showing what the banker does in reaction to the player's cards:
| Banker Two Card Totals | Draws When Player's Third Card is | Does Not Draw When Player's Third Card is |
| 0-2 | Banker always draws a third card. | – |
| 3 | 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9. | 8 |
| 4 | 2-7. | 1, 8, 9, 0. |
| 5 | 4-7. | 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 0. |
| 6 | 6 and 7. | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 0. |
| 7 | Stands. | – |
| 8-9 | Natural Stands. | – |
Mastering the chart above will help players to plan their strategies accordingly. The drawing system gives the banker a slight edge as they see the player's card before they draw their final card. This table also makes it easier for players to make side bets on the outcomes of hands. For example, in large and small side bets, knowing this table will let you understand the probability of a round ending with 4 cards in total or more.
The drawing rules may change in some variations of Baccarat. These rules, when used in conjunction with the probability and house edge, improve your chances of beating the house. Learn the chart and start playing.
