Whether in a sticky-floor California card room or the tuxedo-laden casinos of Monaco, Baccarat is one of the most popular table games in the world. The game’s popularity is a testament to its pristine reputation and universal appeal. It is also a relatively simple game to learn, and players can enjoy a brisk game in less than 10 minutes. However, there are some basic playing rules that players should know before they start playing baccarat.

Once all players have placed their bets the dealer deals two cards to the Player and Banker hands. The winner is the hand that totals closest to nine. If neither the Player nor the Banker hands produce a “natural,” then further cards are drawn to determine the winner. The first of these additional cards is dealt to the Player’s box, and then to the Banker’s box.

These additional cards are a key factor in how the outcome of a hand will be decided, but most players don’t understand when it is necessary to draw the third card and the rules that govern this. The rule is that a third card is needed only when the Player or Banker hands have a total of 8 or 9.

Baccarat is a game of chance, but there are strategies that can improve your chances of winning. For example, a smart player will avoid placing a bet on the tie. This is because the house has a 14.1 percent edge on this bet.