The idea in one sentence
Basic strategy is the mathematically best decision for every hand when you do not know the remaining cards. It is the foundation before counting.
What it does for you
With common casino rules, perfect basic strategy brings the house edge down to roughly half a percent. Playing by feel — standing on 16 vs 10, hitting 12 vs 4 — can cost you several percent. That difference adds up fast.
Strategy card → memory
You already use a strategy card. That is smart. The next lessons turn those rows into habits so you can play without looking — which you will need if you later count cards at a real table.
This path teaches strategy first on purpose.
Tip: Counting on top of bad strategy does not help much. Get strategy solid first, then add the count.