When counting cards at the blackjack table, speed is an important element. To help you keep ahead of the dealer try this technique. Instead of quietly saying "plus 1" or "minus 1," just say "one" for plus numbers and "mi-1" for minus numbers. If on a positive number there is no need to state, even subconsciously, "plus 1." When on the minus numbers use only one syllable such as "mi" instead of the two syllables 'minus." Do the same thing with "zero;" just say "Z." Using these one syllable words will speed up your card-counting technique considerably.