Did you know a deck of cards should be shuffled at least 7 times before playing

Image by Mira Cosic from Pixabay

Whether a deck of cards needs to be shuffled 7 times depends on several factors:

• The type of shuffle: Different shuffles vary in effectiveness. Riffle shuffles, where you divide the deck and interweave the sections, tend to randomize cards well after about 7 shuffles. Overhand shuffles, where you cut off small portions of the deck and place them on top, are less effective and typically require more shuffles (around 10-15) for proper randomization.

• The purpose of the game: For casual play where a perfect order isn't crucial, even 4-5 shuffles with a riffle shuffle might be sufficient. However, for games where card order significantly impacts gameplay (e.g., competitive poker), achieving truly random distribution becomes more important, and 7-10 shuffles with a good technique become recommended.

• Personal preference: Ultimately, the number of shuffles is a matter of personal preference and comfort. Some players might feel secure after just 3-4 shuffles, while others might feel the need for 10 or more. Consistency is also key - it's better to stick to a regular shuffling habit (e.g., always 7 shuffles) than vary the number each time.

So, while 7 shuffles is often cited as a good rule of thumb for riffle shuffles, it's not a golden rule. Remember to consider the type of shuffle, the purpose of the game, and your own comfort level when determining how much to shuffle. And most importantly, have fun!