Sharky's correct about progressive betting. Ron Bennett's correct about players "messing up the cards" and basic strategy. Here are the important things to know:
1) Know basic strategy and I mean KNOW it. Can be learned anywhere and memorized easily. If you can't memorize it, don't play it.
2) Don't deviate from above, don't play hunches. The only playable hunch is one that comes from counting cards, which means it isn't really a hunch, it's numbers and probability.
3) ALWAYS double down on less than 11 with a 5-6 showing, even if you're holding crap and end up getting crap. Odds are with you.
4) Ignore what other people at the table are doing, unless you count cards. They can just as easily turn the cards in your favor with their stupid plays as they can turn them away from your favor. Getting caught up in it only distracts the mind.
5) Tipping cannot buy you luck, there is no such thing as luck, only circumstance. The only advantage you can get from tipping will be with a crooked dealer, and playing with a crooked dealer can get you caught in someone else's net.
6) Tip based on the experience you had with the dealer. If you're a winner but the dealer was an asshole sourpuss who seems pissed that you won, should you tip them?
7) Never forget that the house always has the advantage, with only few small slivers of opportunity in your favor. In general, when gambling, you are not betting against the house, you are betting against YOURSELF.
Rule #7 is why I don't gamble.
Edited to add: Special note to tourists visiting Las Vegas: The above rules do not apply to you. Luck is a lady and she will be with you. Fortunes can and will be made by you and your fellow travelers, gamble freely!!! ;)