Overview
- Swedish Artificial 1♣, 5 Card Majors, Strong NT, Intermediate 2♣/2♦, Weak 2♥/2♠
- System Philosophy
- Pages generated from BML source notes @ tinyurl.com/2zjr3fjb
Uncontested Openings Summary
1♣
Weak or Strong Club:-
(13)14–15 balanced / semi-balanced (5-4-2-2), 5–3–3–2 maybe 5 card ♥/♠-
16+ unbalanced-
21+ balanced(any)
1♣ interference- Negative 0–7 hcp or 8–9(10) semi-positive no 4cM
- 8+ hcp, 4+ card suit, denies 2♦ response, unbalanced if 12+, maybe longer minor when not GF
- 8+ hcp, ♣ transfer, when GF maybe 4♣s and longer ♦s, when limited denies 1♥♠ canapé response
- 8+ hcp, ♦ transfer, when limited denies 1♥♠ canapé response
- Balanced GF, (10)11–15/19+ hcp, no 5cM, when 12+ maybe 4♥s/♠s, when 14+ maybe 5♣s/♦s
2♥
~4–7 hcp, good weak two (2+ honours), continue as if opened 2♥ preempt- ~9–11 hcp invitational ♣s + ♦s, minors + any short major, does not want to play 2NT
- 16–18 hcp, natural maybe 5 card major, 2NT system on
3♣♦
invitational, good 6+ card minor, continue as if opened 3♣♦ preempt3♥♠
~3–7 hcp, weak, continue as if opened 3♥♠ preempt- Any 6 card Solid AKQJ suit, no outside A/K, max one extra Q
- 8 card ♥/♠ suit, exactly AQJ or KQJ, no outside A/K, max one outside Q
- 7 card Solid AKQJ suit, no outside A/K, max one extra Q
1♦
11–13 flat; or 11–15 3 suited no 5 card major or both minors (5–-4 / 5-–5); or maximum 6+♦–5♥/♠(any)
1♦ interference1♥
natural, 4+ cards, maybe longer minor canapé1♠
natural, 4+ cards, maybe longer minor canapé1NT
natural, up to 11 hcp, no 4 card major2♣
10+ natural, maybe 4 card major if 6+–4 GF2♦
10+ natural, maybe 4 card major if 6+–4 GF2♥
5♠s + 4–5♥s, weak (~5–9)2♥
5♠s + 4–5♥s, invitational (~10–12)2NT
natural invitational ~(11)–12(13), no 4 card major, usually very flat 4–4–3–2/4–3–3–33♣
5–4(+) minors, either minor longer, 5–9 hcp, usually a singleton major3♦
weak jump shift, 6+ ♦s, 0–9 hcp, NF3♥♠
preempt3NT
natural, good 12–17, no 4 card major, stops4♣
5–5 minors, 5–9 hcp4♦
preempt4♥♠
natural, to play, obstructive, sets suit as trumps (passed hand fit jump e.g. 6–6 shape!)4NT
quantitative5♣♦
natural, to play, obstructive
1♥
(10)11–15, 5 card Major(any)
interference1♠
4/5+ cards, maybe weak ♦ canapé1NT
non-forcing, ~5–11 hcp2♣
GF natural (passed hand Reverse Drury raise)2♦
GF natural (passed hand 9–11), usually 5 cards2♥
single raise, 3+ card support, ~(7)8–10 support points2♠
6+♠s, ~6–9 hcp, semi-weak, no ♥ fit2NT
limit+ raise3♣
6+ ♣s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♦
6+ ♦s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♥
mixed raise ~7–9(10) support points, 7.5–9 losers, 4+ cards3♠
unknown singleton splinter, 10–13 hcp 3–4 cover cards, ~9–12 by passed hand3NT
splinter ♠, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards, Passed hand - FJ mild slam interest4♣
splinter ♣, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards, Passed hand - FJ mild slam interest4♦
splinter ♦, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards, Passed hand - FJ mild slam interest4♥
to play4♠
preempt4NT
RKB5♣♦
EKB
1♠
(10)11–15, 5 card Major(any)
interference1NT
non-forcing, ~5–11 hcp2♣
GF natural (passed hand Reverse Drury raise)2♦
GF natural (passed hand 9–11), usually 5 cards, maybe 2–4–4–32♥
GF natural (passed hand 9–10), always 5+ cards2♠
single raise, 3+ card support, ~(7)8–10 support points2NT
limit+ raise3♣
6+ ♣s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♦
6+ ♦s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♥
6+ ♥s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♠
mixed raise ~7–9(10) support points, 7.5–9 losers, 4+ cards3NT
unknown singleton splinter, 10–13 hcp 3–4 cover cards, ~9–12 by passed hand4♣
splinter ♣ or ♥, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards, Passed hand - FJ mild slam interest4♦
splinter ♦, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards, Passed hand - FJ mild slam interest4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB5♣♦♥
EKB
1NT
16–18 balanced, maybe 5 card major or 5–4–2–2 long ♣/♦, or 4–4–4–1 singleton A/K.(any)
interference2♣
Stayman, promissory, maybe weakish short ♣ 3 suiter2♦
no major2♥
4 or 5 ♥s, not ♠s2♠
4 or 5 ♠s, not ♥s2NT
4–4 majors, minimum3♣
4–4 majors, maximum
2♦
transfer to ♥, 5+ cards2♥
transfer to ♠, 5+ cards2♠
range ask OR transfer to ♣, 6+ cards, weak or invite plus2NT
transfer to ♦, 6+ cards, weak or invite plus3♣
Puppet Stayman, 3+ card major(s), maybe one 4 card major, GF+3♦
either ♥ slam try transfer, no void OR GF ♥ shortage with 5–4/4–5 minors3♥
either ♠ slam try transfer, no void OR GF ♠ shortage with 5–4/4–5 minors3♠
minors 5–5, GF and maybe slam try3NT
to play4♣♦
♥/♠ transfer4NT
quantitative5♠
invitation to 6NT, asks specifically for any 5 card suit
2♣
(10)11–15 hcp, 6+ card ♣ suit(any)
interference defence2♦
enquiry, many invite+ hands2♥♠
natural, NF, ~7–10 hcp, not good invite, unlikely both majors (both majors invite+ use 2♦)2NT
puppet, ♣ preempt OR GF single major OR GF 6–4 majors3♣
♦ transfer, invite+3♦
5–5+ majors, invite+3♥
invitational, good suit3♠
invitational, good suit3NT
to play, opener can bid on with lots shape and strength4♣
preempt4♦
Redwood RKB for ♣s4♥♠
to play (passed hand = fit jump), opener can bid on with super fit and controls4NT
quantitative5♣
to play
2♦
(10)11–15 hcp, 6+ card ♦ suit, not with 5♥/♠(any)
interference defence2♥
natural, F1, 4+ ♥s2♠
natural, F1, 4+ ♠s, shorter ♥s2NT
♦ support or tolerance, constructive invite plus, no major interest3♣
natural, GF, 6+ suit3♦
preempt3♥
natural major, GF, 6+ suit3♠
natural major, GF, 6+ suit3NT
to play4♣
RKB for ♦s4♦
preemptive4♥♠
to play4NT
quantitative5♣♦
to play
2♥
5+ good (NV) / 6+ (VUL) card weak two 7–10 1st/2nd maybe long minor, Undisciplined 5–11 3rd, 10–13 4th2♠
NF, natural, either weak 6+ ♠ short ♥s OR invitational strength 5+ ♠ short ♥s2NT
ASK (NV), or puppet to 3♣ (VUL) maybe ♥ raise OR ♣ signoff3♣
♦ transfer, invitational plus, 6+ cards or 5 cards and ♥ support3♦
♥ transfer, invitational plus3♥
weak limit raise3♠
natural, GF, (passed hands fit jump)3NT
to play, non-correctable4♣
Preempt RKB4♦
control asking bid, (passed hands fit jump)4♥
to play4♠
control asking bid, (passed hands fit jump)4NT
♣ substitute control asking bid5♣♦
to play
2♠
5+ good (NV) / 6+ (VUL) card weak two 7–10 1st/2nd maybe long minor, Undisciplined 5–11 3rd, 10–13 4th2NT
ASK (NV), or puppet to 3♣ (VUL) maybe ♠ raise OR ♣ signoff3♣
♦ transfer, assumed invitational, maybe weak - sign off 4♦ over max responses, 6+ cards or 5 cards and ♠ support3♦
♥ transfer, 6 good or 7 cards, assumed invitational, primarily ♥ not NT interest3♥
♠ transfer, invitational raise3♠
weak limit raise3NT
to play, non-correctable4♣
Preempt RKB4♦♥
control asking bids, (passed hands fit jump)4♠
to play4NT
♣ substitute control asking bid5♣♦
to play
2NT
19–20 NT3♣♦
constructive minor preempt3♥♠
preempt, max 1 outside A/K3NT
good 4♥♠ preempt 1st/2nd semi-solid+ with 2 or 3 KC, 3rd/4th to play4♣♦
preempt, distributional with side singleton/void4♥♠
preempt, not 3NT strength in 1st/2nd, max 1 outside A/K4NT
specific ace ask5♣♦
preempt5♥♠
11 tricks in hand, missing 2 trump honours5NT
11 tricks, raise 1 level higher for each A or K or Q you hold
1♣ Weak Strong
- (13)14–15 balanced / semi-balanced (5-4-2-2), 5–3–3–2 maybe 5 card ♥/♠
- 16+ unbalanced
- 21+ balanced
1♣
(any)
1♣ interference- Negative 0–7 hcp or 8–9(10) semi-positive no 4cM
- 8+ hcp, 4+ card suit, denies 2♦ response, unbalanced if 12+, maybe longer minor when not GF
- 8+ hcp, ♣ transfer, when GF maybe 4♣s and longer ♦s, when limited denies 1♥♠ canapé response
- 8+ hcp, ♦ transfer, when limited denies 1♥♠ canapé response, not GF 5♦s and 4♣s
- Balanced GF, (10)11–15/19+ hcp, no 5cM, when 12+ maybe 4♥s/♠s, when 14+ maybe 5♣s/♦s
2♥
~4–7 hcp, good weak two (2+ honours), continue as if opened 2♥ preempt- ~9–11 hcp invitational ♣s + ♦s, minors + any short major, does not want to play 2NT
- 16–18 hcp, natural maybe 5 card major, 2NT system on
3♣♦
invitational, good 6+ card minor, continue as if opened 3♣♦ preempt3♥♠
~3–7 hcp, weak, continue as if opened 3♥♠ preempt- Any 6 card Solid AKQJ suit, no outside A/K, max one extra Q
- 8 card ♥/♠ suit, exactly AQJ or KQJ, no outside A/K, max one outside Q
- 7 card Solid AKQJ suit, no outside A/K, max one extra Q
1♣–1♦
Negative 1♦ with 0–7 hcp or flat 8–9(10) hcp semi-positive no 4cM. The semi-positive includes very limited 8 hcp hands and
invitational NT hands ~9(10) hcp.
For opener's continuations:
- suits are bid in natural order except the "moderate two suiter" ♠ canapé situations
- For shapely 5–5+ hands the limited v.s. Acol 2 v.s. GF bids are more expected trick focussed than just HCP, e.g. 9
certain playing tricks with a 5 card major might start by showing the 5+ card GF major
Weak/Intermediate 14–15 NT:
Strong balanced:
- 21–22: 2NT
- 23–24: 1♥ then 2NT
- 25–26: 3NT
- 27–28: 1♥ then 3NT
Strong 4–4–4–1 hand:
- 4 card ♥ suit: 1♥
- 4–1♥–4–4: 1♠
Very Strong ~22+ 4–4–4–1 hand:
- in theory, the same as a normal strong 4–4–4–1 hand
- may decide to bid NT to show exact strength, especially with a singleton honour
Limited strong one suiter:
- minor: 2♣/2♦
- ♥s: 2♥
- ♠s: 1♠
Acol two strength one suiter:
- minor: 1♥ then 3♣/3♦
- ♥: 1♥ then 2♥
- ♠: 2♠ immediate
GF moderate one suiter, 5+ suit:
- minor: 1♥ then 2♣ relay -> 2♦ ask -> ...
- ♥s: 1♥ then 2♣ relay -> 2♦ ask -> 2♥
- ♠s: 1♥ then 2♠
GF self-sufficient one suiter:
- major: 3♥/3♠
- minor: 4♣/4♦ Minorwood
Limited strong 5–4/6–4 moderate two suiter or 5–4–4–0:
- 4 ♠s or longer ♠ suit: canapé 1♠
- minor not 4♠s: 2♣/2♦
- ♥s not 4♠s: 2♥
Acol two strengh 5–4/6–4 moderate two suiter or 5–4–4–0:
- 4 ♠s exactly: canapé 1♠ then 3♣♦♥ longer suit
- ♣s not 4♠s: 1♥ then 2♣ relay -> 2♦ ask -> 2♠ (showing ♣s + side suit or GF single suiter)
- ♦s not 4♠s: 1♥ then 2♣ relay -> 2♦ ask -> 2NT (showing 5+♦s + 4 card side suit)
- ♥s not 4♠s: 1♥ then 2♥
- ♠s: 1♥ then 2♠
Note, system expects 6♥s + 4♠s Acol two to canapé 1♠ first
Limited 5–5 two suiter:
- both minors: 2♦
- ♣s + a major: 3♣
- ♦s + ♥s: 2♥
- ♦s + ♠s: 1♠
- both majors: 3♦
Acol two strength 5–5 two suiter:
- minors: 1♥ then 2♣ relay -> 2♦ ask -> 3♣
- major + minor: 1♥ then 2♥ (♥s) or 2♠ (♠) - show major Acol two first
- majors: 2♠ - show ♠ Acol two first
Acol two strength 6–5 two suiter:
- Generally as 5–5, but always show the longest suit first.
- 6♣s + 5 other: 1♥ then 2♣ relay -> 2♦ ask -> 2♠ (showing ♣s + side suit or GF single suiter)
- 6♦s + 5 other: 1♥ then 2♣ relay -> 2♦ ask -> 3♣ (showing 5+ ♦s and 5+ other)
- 6 major + 5 other: show major Acol two first
4th Interference
1♥
forcing, multi-meaning-
weak natural, ♥s-
16+, marmic 1–4–4–4 / 4–4–1–4 / 4–4–4–1, with 4♥s (use 1♠ for short ♥s)-
many unbalanced extra strong, ~20+ hands (Acol 2 strength)-
GF hands (without self-sufficient single suiter)-
balanced 23–24 or 27–28 (and 31–32)1♠
asking bid, unsuitable for artificial 1NT response1NT
weak NT with 4♥suit
to play2NT
invite3NT
~9–10, happy with ♥ suit
2♣
unbalanced, multiple extra strong (♣, ♦, ♣+?, ♦+?) or GF ♥ hand2♦
ask2♥
natural 5+ ♥s, GF, not as long as 3♥ rebid over 1♦, stronger than Acol 22♠
5+ ♣s, GF single suited OR 5–4/6–4/(6–5) 20+2NT
ask3♣
5+ ♣s and 4 card side suit, F1 (~20+)3♦
ask3♥
natural, ~19–213♠
natural, GF3NT
♦s4♥
5♣–4♥, GF
3♦
6+ ♣s, no shortage, GF single suiter3♥
6+ ♣s, short ♥s, F13♠
6+ ♣s, short ♠s, F13NT
6+ ♣s, short ♦s, F14♣
6+ ♣s, short ♦s, GF, too good for 3NT
2NT
5+ ♦s and 4 card side suit3♣
NF ask, ~0–3, 0–2 ♦sPass
♣s, ~19–213♦
artificial GF3♥
natural, ~19–213♠
natural, GF (canapé 1S with ~19–23 limited)3NT
♣s, almost GF values ~22–234♣
5♦–4♥, ~22–234♦
5♦–4♠, ~22–234♥♠
GF
3♦
NF, ~0–33♥♠
5+ hcp natural
3♣
5+ ♦s and 5+ other suit, usually minors ~20+ or GF with major, but 6–5 maybe ~20+3♦
NF relay, ~0–33♥
GF paradox3♠
GF paradox
3♦
6+ ♦s, no shortage, GF single suiter3♥
6+ ♦s, short ♥s, GF3♠
6+ ♦s, short ♠s, GF3NT
6+ ♦s, short ♣s, GF4♣
6+ ♦s, short ♠s, too good for 3NT
2♥♠
natural, 6+ cards, 2 top honours3♣♦
natural, 6+ cards, 2 top honours
2♦
4 ♥s exactly, 1–4–4–4 / 4–4–1–4 / 4–4–4–1Pass
very weak, long ♦s2♥
to play2♠
singleton ♠, extras game try3♣
singleton ♣, extras game try3♦
singleton ♦, extras game try
2♠
strength/shape ask (note would have bid 1NT earlier with weak hand and 4+ ♠s)2NT
minimum 16–18 hcp, passable3♣
shape ask3♦
singleton ♦, minimum 16–18 hcp3♥
singleton ♣, minimum 16–18 hcp3♠
singleton ♠, minimum 16–18 hcp3NT
singleton ♠, minimum 16–18 hcp, stiff ♠ honour
3NT
to play
3♣
singleton ♣, extras ~19+ hcp3♦
singleton ♦, extras ~19+ hcp3♥
singleton ♠, extras ~19+ hcp
3♣♦
NF decent suit, invitational3♥
♥ game try, only needs a bit extra help (~17–18 hcp)3♠
NT transfer, no ♠ fit should exist3NT
to play, wants to declare4♥♠
to play
2♥
♥ Acol 2 one/two suited ~19–21 hcp, ~8–9 playing tricks, 4+ Quick Tricks, F1, denies exactly 4♠s2♠
Herbert negative ~0–4 hcp OR natural forcingany
natural, NFnewSuit
NF, play suggestion3♠
natural forcing suit
3♣♦
natural, forcing, 5+ hcp3♥
3+ support, ~ 2+ control points including singleton/voids3♠
splinter, 4+ card support4♣♦
splinter, 4+ card support4♥
support, fast arrival
2♠
natural, GF, 5+ ♠s, not as long as 3♠ rebid over 1♦, stronger than Acol 22NT
balanced, 23–243♣
♣ single suited Acol 2, NF extras3♥♠
natural, forcing, no Herbert negative4♣
3+ support, ~ 2+ control points including singleton/voids4♦♥♠
splinter, 4+ card support
3♦
♦ single suited Acol 2, NF extras3♥♠
natural, forcing, no Herbert negative4♦
3+ support, ~ 2+ control points including singleton/voids4♥♠
splinter, 4+ card support
3NT
27–28 balanced4♣
Stayman + later 4NT quantitative4♦♥
Transfer + later 4NT RKB (not pick a game)4♠
5–5+ minors5♣♦
to play, probably weak 7+ cards
4NT
31–32 balanced
1NT
artificial, 0–7 hcp exactly 4 ♠s, denies 4+ ♥s (steals NT with weaker hand if no ♠ fit)2♣
unbalanced, various extras (see 1S asking bid)2♦
4 ♥s exactly, 1–4–4–4 / 4–4–1–4 / 4–4–4–1, limited 16–18 if 4♠sPass
very weak, long ♦s (and 4♠s)2♥
to play2♠
4 card ♠ support, limited3♣♦♥
lowest HHxx+ suit, singleton ♠, extras ~19+ hcp
2♠
strength/shape ask2NT
16–18 hcp, ♠ singleton3♣♦♥
lowest HHxx+ suit, singleton ♠, extras ~19+ hcp3♠
16–18 hcp, 4 card ♠ support
3♣♦
NF decent suit, invitational3♥
♥ game try, only needs a bit extra help (~17–18 hcp)3♠
NT transfer, can ignore if have ♠ fit3NT
to play, wants to declare4♥♠
to play
2♥
natural Acol 2 equivalent ~19–21 hcp, ~8–9 playing tricks, 4+ Quick Tricks, F12♠
Herbert negative ~0–4 hcpany
natural, NFnewSuit
NF, play suggestion3♥
natural forcing suit
2♠
to play, weak NT hand2NT
semi-natural, 21–23 NT3♣♦
single suited ♣/♦ Acol 2 equivalent ~19–21 hcp, ~8–9 playing tricks, 4+ Quick Tricks, F13♠
invitational, strong with extras ~19+3NT
punt ~23/24+4♠
to play
1♠
natural, ~14–21 with 4+ ♠s, maybe 4–1–4–4 or canapé exactly 4♠s, when weak denies 4♥sPass
very weak, often ♠ tolerance1NT
passable ask, any 0–8 hcp handPass
weak NT hand2♣
artificial, any hand 5+ ♠s2♦
relay, invitational plus2♥
4+ ♥s, NF2♠
6+ ♠s, NF2NT
natural-ish, NF3♣♦
natural, NF3♥♠
natural 6+ cards, GF3NT
to play, maybe offshape4♣♦
GF, 5–5
2♥
weak, natural2♠
2+ ♠s, weak2NT
natural invitational, not interested in other suit3♠
invitational, 3♠s
2♦
4 ♠s, 5+ ♦s, ~16–182♥
4 ♠s, 5+ ♥s, ~16–182♠
4 ♠s, 5+ ♣s (primary clubs!), ~16–182NT
4–1–4–4 (bid 1♥ with 1–4–4–4 / 4–4–1–4 / 4–4–4–1)3♣
strength ask3♦
16–17Pass
to play, invitational hand3♥
to play
3♥
18–19Pass
to play, limited hand3NT
to play4♣♦
to play
3♠
20+
3♦♥
to play, weak ~0–3 hcp3♠
to play, worse than 2♠ raise, slightly better than pass of 1♠4♣
awkward escape to play, may just pass 2NT instead
3♣
4 ♠s, 5+ ♣s, too strong for 2♠, ~19–213♦
4 ♠s, 5+ ♦s, too strong for 2♦, ~19–213♥
4 ♠s, 5+ ♥s, too strong for 2♥, ~19–21
2♣♦♥
5+ suit, 5–7 hcp2♠
4+ card support, 4–7 hcp2NT+
game try structure as 1♥–2♥ raise or 1♠–2♠ raise
2NT
invite3♣♦♥
mini-splinter3♠
5(+) card support, NF3NT
~9–10, happy with ♠ bid
1NT
weak NTany
natural, 2x weak, 2NT/3x invitational
2♣
natural strong, ~16–19, ♣s, not exactly 4♠s (use 1♠ then canapé rebid with 4♠s non-GF)2♦
positive 5+ relay2♥
natural, F12♠
artificial, 4 ♦s2NT
6+ ♣s, extras3♣
6+ ♣s, minimum3♦♥♠
natural, forcing 6–5
2M
natural, constructive ~5–7 hcp2NT
artificial stronger flattish 4+ card ♣ support, ~7–93♣
natural raise, 3+ support, ~5–73♦♥♠
mini-splinter ♣ support3NT
natural, to play, ~7–94♣
rare, distributional happy to bypass 3NT, considered too strong for just 3♦
2♦
natural strong, ~16–19, ♦s, not exactly 4♠s (use 1♠ then canapé rebid with 4♠s non-GF)2♥
positive 5–9 relay2♠
artificial, 4♥s2NT
6+ ♦s, extras3♣
4+ ♣s, GF new suit3♦
6+ ♦s, minimum3♥♠
natural, forcing, 6–5
2♠
natural, constructive ~5–7 hcp2NT
artificial 5+ ♥s, constructive ~5–7 hcp, replaces natural 2♥ bid (not minor raise as over 2♣)3♣
natural, 6 carder, ~5–7 hcp3♦
natural raise wide range, 3+ support, ~5–9 hcp3♥♠
mini-splinter ♦ support, ~5–9 hcp3NT
natural, to play, ~7–94♦
rare, distributional happy to bypass 3NT, considered too strong for just 3♦
2♥
natural, ~16–18 hcp, 5+ ♥s, denies exactly 4 ♠s (use 1♠ then 2♥ canapé rebid)2♠
natural3NT
6 card ♥ suit, maximum
3♣♦
natural4♥
8–9 semi-positive with 3 card support
2♠
♠ Acol 2 one/two suited ~19–21 hcp, ~8–9 playing tricks, 4+ Quick Tricks, F12NT
Herbert negative ~0–4 hcp OR natural forcing3x
natural, NFnewSuit
NF, play suggestion3♠
natural forcing suit
3♣♦♥
natural, forcing, 5+ hcp3♠
3+ support, ~ 2+ control points including singleton/voids4♣♦♥
splinter, 4+ card support4♠
support, fast arrival
2NT
21–22 balanced NT3♣
2 suiter 5–5+, ♣ + ♥/♠ major, ~16–18 hcp less than Acol 23♦
2 suiter 5–5+, both majors ♥ + ♠, ~16–18 hcp less than Acol 23♥♠
GF setting suit as trumps3NT
25–26 balanced NT4♣
Stayman + later 4NT quantitative4♦♥
Transfer + later 4NT RKB (not pick a game)4♠
5–5+ minors5♣♦
to play, probably weak 7+ cards
4♣♦
GF, Minorwood4NT
29–30 balanced
1♣–1♥♠
- 8+ hcp
- 4+ card suit
- NF limited hands maybe minor canapé
- No major canapé (bid longest major first)
- Not worth 2♦ response (showing 12+ / 14+ 5–3–3–2 balanced, without 5 card major)
- Bid 1♥ with 4–4 both majors
- Bid 1♠ with 5–5 both majors
- Unbalanced if 12+ (maybe balanced 4 card major otherwise)
- After a positive major response there is no canapé bidding from opener responders 1♥♠
is already possible canapé and only one side of the partnership ever does canapé bidding.
1♠
(over 1♥) natural weak/strong, F1, 5+ unbalanced suit if strong (NOT canapé), not 3+ ♥s if strong (use 2♦)1NT
~8–9 hcp2♣
puppet to 2♦ v.s. weak NT, mostly weak ♦s or invitational hands2♦
completed, weak NTPass
♦ canapé, not worth invite2♥
invite, probably 5 cards, not worth a 3♥ bid over 1♠2♠
invite, 4 card support3other
invite with 5–5 (5–4 not special enough)
2♥
strong, 5 card ♠ suit, Hx ♥ support (use 2♦ if 3+)2♠
natural, strong, 6♠sother
strong 16+
2♦
artificial GF, natural continuations, normal only 2♠ bid used by strong hand2♥
weak NT, 3 card support2♠
natural, 6♠s2NT
weak NT, nothing special, may have 5 card ♠ suit3♣♦
natural, strong, 5–4+3♥
♠s self-sufficient, strong, extras, Ax/Kx ♥s3♠
self-sufficient, strong, extras4other
self/auto-splinter, slam try
2♥
to play v.s. weak hand2♠
to play v.s. weak hand, 4 card support or possibly good 3 cards + singleton2NT
puppet, ♣ signoff or 4–4–4–1 GF and short ♠s3♣
completeother
natural, baron 4 card suit with control
3new
5–5+ slam interest3♥
6+ suit, slam interest3♠
natural invite, 4 card support3NT
serious, control bid prompting
3NT
to play, ~10–134M
natural, ~10–13
1NT
weak NT hand, no 1 level biddable 4 card major2♣
puppet to 2♦, weak ♦s or invitational hands2♦
completedPass
♦ canapé, not worth invite2♥
(after 1♠ response only) 5–4/6–4 invite, preference to ♠s without 4 card support3♥
minimum, 4 card support4♥
maximum, 4+ card support
2M
invite, probably 5 cards, not worth a 3M bid over 1NT2NT
natural invite3♣♦
4M and 5+ minor, invitational3♥
(after 1♠ response) invite with 5–53♠
(after 1♥ response) invite with 6–5
2♦
artificial GF, natural continuations2M
3 card major support2oM
Hx major support2NT
singleton support3♣
5 ♣s3♦
5 ♦s3♥
doubleton support, not Hx support
2M
to play2♠
(after 1♥ response) N/A2NT
puppet, ♣ signoff or 4–4–4–1 GF3♣
completePass
signoffother
natural, baron 4 card suits
3new
5–5+ slam interest3M
6+ suit, slam interest4other
self/auto-splinter, slam try
2♣
Lakebeach, unbalanced strong with a 5+ card minor, not worth 3♣♦ (20+ hcp and single suited)2♦
ask2M
artificial 20+ hcp, 5–4 minors2NT
long minor ask3♣♦
natural 4+ card supportother
natural, no 3 card minor
2oM
natural, with longer minor, 16+ hcp2NT
major support, extras ~12+ hcp3♣
ask3♦
natural, 5/6 cards minimum3♥
artificial ♣s + oM 5–4, 20+ hcp3♠
artificial ♦s + oM 5–4, 20+ hcp3NT
artificial ♣s, 5/6 cards minimum4♣♦
6–4, extras
3oM
natural minimum raise, ~8–11 hcpjump
splinter, major supportother
cue, major support with extras ~12+ hcp
2NT
5–4 / 5–5 (6–5) minors, ~16–19 hcp3♣♦
natural 4+ card supportother
quasi-natural3NT
stops
3♣♦
6 carder, ~16–19, denies a major, maybe 4 card other minor3♥♠
auto-splinter 5–5 minors, ~(19)20+ hcp
2♥♠
natural 6+ suit2oM
natural 5–5 majors2NT
artificial, 3+ both minor, at least mild slam interest3♣♦
natural 5–5 major + minor3M
good 7+ suit, sets trumps
2♦
GF, 3+ support but 6♥s + 3♠s bids 2♥ over 1♠, "Odwrotka",2♥
strong, ~12+, other bids are ~8-112♠
relayany
as immediate responses over "Odwrotka", but 12+ hcp
others
natural, sound 6 card suit (use relay then sign off with bad 6 carder and 7 card major fit)
2♠
4 card major(s) for longest suit, no 5 card minor, so balanced or a 4–4–4–1 hand2NT
waiting, baron like3♣♦
natural, 4+ suit (5+ suit if 7–8 hcp)3NT
4–3–3–3
minors
natural, sound 6 card suitoM
natural, 5 carder
2NT
5 card high suit, with side 4+ card suit, ~8–11 hcp3♣
ask4new
splinterothers
natural, sound 6 card suit
3♣
canapé, ~8–11 hcp3♦
singleton ask3oM
other major singleton4♣
♣ RKB4♠
(over ♥ fit) double fit RKB4NT
(over ♠ fit) double fit RKB
3M
♦ singleton4♣
♣ RKB4♠
(over ♥ fit) double fit RKB4NT
(over ♠ fit) double fit RKB
3NT
no4♣
♣ RKB4♠
(over ♥ fit) double fit RKB4NT
(over ♠ fit) double fit RKB
4♣
♣ RKB4♦
Double Fit RKB
3♦
canapé, ~8–11 hcp3oM
natural, 5+ carder3M
singleton askoM
other major singleton4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♠
(over ♥ fit) double fit RKB4NT
(over ♠ fit) double fit RKB
3NT
no4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♠
(over ♥ fit) double fit RKB4NT
(over ♠ fit) double fit RKB
4♣
♣ singleton4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♠
(over ♥ fit) double fit RKB4NT
(over ♠ fit) double fit RKB
4♣
control bid (probably better start with singleton ask though)4♦
♦ RKB4♥
(over 1♥) sign off4♥
(over 1♠) last train4♠
(over 1♥) double fit RKB4♠
(over 1♠) to play4NT
(over 1♠) double fit RKB
3♥
artificial, 6+ suit, ~8–11 hcp3♠
singleton ask3NT
no4♣
♣ singleton4♦
♦ singleton4♥
other major singleton4♠
with ♥s agreed, ♠ singleton, suggests extras too good for game
3NT
serious, control prompt4M
to play
3♠
artificial, 5–3–3–2, ~8–11 hcp3NT
5–5 both majors, ~8–11 hcp4♣♦
cue4♥
last train4♠
to play4NT
double fit RKB
4♣
5–5 M + ♣s, ~8–11 hcp4♦
Double Fit RKB Kickback
4♦
5–5 M + ♦s, ~8–11 hcp
2M
weak NT raise, 4+ card support2NT
force before cue bid or game try structure as e.g. 1♥–2♥ raise or 1♠–2♠ raise3M
extra trump length game try3x
forcing3NT
play suggestion even vs 4 card support
2♥
(over 1♠) 5+ ♥s strong, maybe 6♥–3♠ support2♠
5 ♠s, opposite ordering to usual 6+♠s bid to limit strength with less shape2NT
ask, lacks extras ♥s or limited3♣♦
4+ cards, 8+ hcp3♥
15+ hcp, 5–3–3–2 doubleton ♥ support3♠
12–14 hcp, 5–3–3–2 doubleton ♥ support3NT
8–11 hcp, 5–3–3–2 doubleton ♥ support
3♣♦
natural, extras (bid 2NT ask with less)3♥
natural 6+ cards3♠
3 card support and 6 ♥s
2NT
6+ ♠s, not worth 3♠, maybe wants to play 4♠3♣♦
quasi-natural3♠
3 card support and 6 ♥s, bid something else with 2 card support
3♣♦
5+ cards canapé OR 5-5, extras3♠
3 card support and 6 ♥s
3NT
natural, ~8–11 fast arrival including 5♠s with outside stops3♠
self-sufficient suit, slam try interest4♥♠
to play
2♠
(over 1♥) 6+ ♠s and 3♥s3♣♦
natural, canapé3♥♠
sets the trump suit3NT
serious, control asking
2NT
21+ balanced / 21+ 4–4–4–1 singleton in partner's major3♣
6+ ♣s, single suited, 20+3♦
6+ ♦s, single suited, 20+3♥
(over 1♠) self-sufficient, extras3M
5(+) card support, unbalanced ~16–18, probably with side suitsuit
good fragment or natural length3NT
serious4M
fast arrival
3NT
4–4–4–1 singleton in partner's major, 16–20 hcp4x
extra long suit, ~8–9 PT, distributional, weaker than Acol two
1♣–1NT
♣ transfer
- usually 5 cards
- when NF limited ~8–10 hcp denies a 4 card major
- when GF we may have a 4 card major
- when 12+ hcp maybe 4♣s and longer ♦s
- possibly 5–3–3–2 balanced, but can bid 1♦ (~8–9 hcp), 2♦ (14+ hcp 5–3–3–2) or 2NT (~9–10 hcp)
2♣
Weak NT, transfer acceptPass
limited ~8–9 hcp2♦
GF, both minors 5–4+2♥♠
fragment/stop2NT
natural3♣♦
4+ card support
2♥
artificial GF, 5+ ♣s + side 4 card major2♠
natural2NT
artificial ♥s3♣
3+ card support, no major3♦
5 ♦s3♥♠
natural 5 card major, 5–3–3–2 (optional?)
2♠
artificial GF, 6+ ♣s, no side suit2NT
positive waiting3♣
waiting, no splinter or no slam interest3♦♥♠
shortage, slam try3NT
to play4♦♥♠
void splinter
3♣
negative, usually 2 card support
2NT
invite, (semi)balanced with ♣ suit worth showing, instead of direct 2NT3♣
invite, weakish suit, not worth initial 3♣ response3♦♥♠
6–4 GF
2♦
GF relay2♥
artificial, both minors 5–4+, 12+ extras2♠
ask2NT
5–5 minors3♣♦
5 card longer suit with shortage3♥
5–4–2–2 longer ♣s (2–2–4–5)3♠
5–4–2–2 longer ♦s (2–2–5–4)
2♠
artificial, 5+ ♣s + side 4 card major, ~11/12+ GF v.s initial weak NT2NT
ask3♣
4 ♥s, 5 ♣s with shortage3♦
4 ♠s, 5 ♣s with shortage3♥
shortage ask3♠
♦ shortage3NT
♥ shortage
3♥♠
natural, no shortage
2NT
artificial, 6+ ♣s, 12+ hcp (or 7 cards slightly weaker)3♣
shortage ask3♦
no3♥♠
major shortage3NT
♦ shortage
3♣
6+ ♣s, minimum 8–11 hcp, with shortage3♦
shortage ask3♥♠
major shortage3NT
♦ shortage
3♦
limited ~8–11 hcp, 5+ ♣s and 4+ ♦s3♥
~8–10, 5–3–3–23♠
~11–13, 5–3–3–23NT
~8–11, 6–3–2–2 (6 cards no shortage)4♣
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
2♥♠
good 6+ card suit4♣
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
2NT
good 6+ ♦ suit4♣
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
3♣
support, strong hand3♦♥♠
splinter, strong hand4♦
self-sufficient suit, extras4♥♠
self-sufficient suit, (sub)minimum strong, max 2 CP outside main suit5♦
rare likely 8 card suit, (sub)minimum strong, expect 3 keycards
Interference over 1♣–1NT
1♣–(P)–1NT-
(X)
whateverPass
weak, doubleton
XX = retransfer askXX
to play / values2♣
weak, 3+ cardsother
system on
(2C)
bidding partners transfer suitPass
weak, doubletonX
weak, 3 cards
(bid)
Pass
weak, no stop
X = takeout by responder up to 3♠NT
stop, no penalty interestX
penalty
1♣–2♣
♦ transfer
- when NF limited ~8–10 hcp denies a 4 card major
- when GF not 5♦s and 4♣s (starts with 1NT ♣ transfer!)
- when GF we may have a 4 card major
- possibly 5–3–3–2 balanced, but can bid 1♦ (~8–9 hcp), 2♦ (14+ hcp 5–3–3–2)
2♦
Weak NT, transfer acceptPass
limited ~8–9 hcp2♥
artificial GF, 5+ ♦s + side 4 card major2♠
natural2NT
artificial ♥s3♣
5 ♣s3♦
3+ card support, no major3♥♠
natural 5 card major, 5–3–3–2 (optional?)
2♠
artificial GF, 6+ ♦s, no side suit2NT
positive relay3♣
shortage, slam try3♦
waiting, no splinter or no slam interest3♥♠
shortage, slam try3NT
to play4♣♥♠
void splinter
3♦
negative, usually 2 card support
2NT
invite, (semi)balanced with ♦ suit worth showing, instead of direct 2NT3♣
6–4 GF3♦
invite, weakish suit, not worth initial 3♦ response3♥♠
6–4 GF
2♥
GF relay2♠
artificial, 5+ ♦s + side 4 card major, 12+ extras2NT
artificial, 6+ ♦s, 12+ hcp (or 7 cards slightly weaker)3♣
shortage ask3♦
no3♥♠
major shortage3NT
♣ shortage
3♣
6+ ♦s with shortage, minimum 8–11 hcp3♦
shortage ask3♥♠
major shortage3NT
♣ shortage
3♦
limited ~8–11 hcp, 5+ ♦s and 4+ ♣s (12+ GF can use 1NT transfer)3♥
~8–10, 5–3–3–23♠
~11–13, 5–3–3–23NT
~8–11, 6–3–2–2 (6 cards no shortage)4♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
2♠
good 6+ card suit4♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
2NT
good 6+ ♥ suit4♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
3♣
good 6+ card suit4♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
3♦
support, strong3♥♠
splinter, strong4♣
splinter, strong4♥♠
self-sufficient suit, (sub)minimum strong, max 2 CP outside main suit5♣
rare likely 8 card suit, (sub)minimum strong, expect 3 keycards
Interference over 1♣–2♣
1♣–(P)–2♣-
(X)
whateverPass
weak, doubleton
XX = retransfer askXX
to play interest (4 very good or 5 reasonable)2♦
weak, 3+ cardsother
system on
(2D)
bidding partners transfer suitPass
weak, doubletonX
weak, 3 cards
(bid)
Pass
weak, no stop
X = takeout by responder up to 3♠NT
stop, no penalty interestX
penalty
1♣–2♦
- artificial GF balanced (10)11–15 / 19+ hcp
- no 5 card major
- NOT 5–4–2–2 or 6–3–2–2
- (10)/11 hcp, no 5 card minor and no 4 card major (one or two 4 card minors, 4–4–3–2 / 4–3–3–3)
- 12+ hcp, maybe with 4 card major (4–4–3–2 / 4–3–3–3), NO 5 card minor
- 14–15/19+ hcp, additionally maybe with a 5 card minor (5–3–3–2 exactly)
Responding:
- repeating a major at each level, e.g. 2♥,3♥,4♥, something extra just below Acol two
- fast arrival rebid, e.g. 2♥ then 4♥, is a normal ~16–18 hand
- natural bidding longest suit first
2♥♠
natural 4+ suit2NT
waiting, maybe 3 card major3♣♦
5 cards3oM
4 cards3NT
usually no 3 card major, fast arrival
2NT
staymanic range ask, usually flattish strong 16+ opening hands3♣
(10)11–13, some 4–4–3–2/4–3–3–33♦
14–15, no 4 card major, no 5 card minor3♥♠
14–15, natural 4 card major3NT
19+4♣♦
5 card minor (5–3–3–2), 14–15
3♣♦
natural 5+ cards, strong3♥♠
good 6+ suit, extras ~8+ PT3NT
weak NT, fast arrival, no 4 card major4♣♦
self-sufficient, extras4♥♠
self-sufficient suit, (sub)minimum strong, max 2 CP outside main suit5♣♦
rare likely 8 card suit, (sub)minimum strong, expect 3 keycards
Interference over 1♣–2♦
1♣–(P)–2♦-
(X)
whateverPass
weak, nothing to say, similar to direct 3NT without the double
XX = to play interest (4 very good or 5 reasonable)XX
to play interest (4 very good or 5 reasonable)other
system on
(bid)
Pass
weak, nothing to say
X = takeout by responder up to 3♠X
penalty2NT
system on staymanic range ask, but expect 4 card major OR strong handother
system on
1♣–2♠
- invitational both minors
- some major shortage, so does not want to play 2NT
2NT
ask, weak or strong3♣
5♣–4♦/6♣–4♦3♦
shortage ask3♥
♥ singleton/void3♠
inviting xxx or Hx support (not available for ♥s)3NT
to play4♣
♣ RKB4♦
Double Fit RKB Kickback5♣♦
to play
3♠
♠ singleton/void3NT
to play4♣
♣ RKB4♦
Double Fit RKB Kickback4♥
natural5♣♦
to play
3♦
5♦–4♣/6♦–4♣3♥
shortage ask3♠
♠ singleton/void3NT
to play4♣
♣ RKB4♦
Double Fit RKB Kickback4♥
natural5♣♦
to play
3NT
♥ singleton/void4♣
Double Fit RKB Kickback4♦
♦ RKB4♠
natural5♣♦
to play
3♥
♥ shortage, 5–5+3♠
inviting xxx or Hx support3NT
to play4♣
♣ RKB4♦
♦ RKB4♥♠
N/A4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback5♣♦
to play
3♠
♠ shortage, 5–5+3NT
to play4♣
♣ RKB4♦
♦ RKB4♥
natural, looking for doubleton support4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback5♣♦
to play
3NT
6–6 minors4♣
void ask4♦♥
♠/♥ voidnext
Double Fit RKB Kickback, ignore void responses
5♣♦
to play
4♣
7♣–4♦4♦
Kickback RKB4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback5♦
weak NT, ♦ fit
4♦
7♦–4♣4♥
Kickback RKB4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback5♣
weak NT, ♣ fit
3♣♦
weak NF, 4+ support3♥♠
natural, strong3NT
to play4♣♦
strong, slam interest
Interference over 1♣–2♠
1♣–(P)–2♠–(X)
♠ normallyPass
weak, no stopXX
to play interest (4 very good or 5+ reasonable)2NT+
system on, but ♠ stop implication
1♣–2NT
- Natural balanced 16–18 hcp
- Maybe 5–3–3–2 with 5 card major
- Should not have semi-balanced 5–4–2–2 hands - 6♣♦ or other slams should be easier to bid if showing suits
2NT system on for responses and interference handling.
1♣–3NT
- Any 6 card solid AKQJ suit
- no outside A/K, max one extra Q
- unlikely 6–5+ shape (maybe ignore xxxxx 5 carder)
- suit not set
4♣
shortness singleton/void ask, slam interest, has identified the solid suitany
bid shortness or own suit if nonenext
void ask check5x
singleton showing6x
void showing
other
to play, need not play in opener's suit
4♦
suit ask, usually an escapegame
to play, regardless of suit
1♣–4♣♦
- 8 card major headed by AQJ or KQJ
- no outside A/K, max one extra Q
- suit implicitly set
4♣
8 card ♥ suit4♦
shortness ask, slam interest, (bid up the line, showing closest shortage with two)4♥
to play
4♦
8 card ♠ suit4♥
shortness ask, slam interest, (bid up the line, showing closest shortage with two)4♠
to play
1♣–4♥♠
- 7 card full solid major
- no outside A/K, max one extra Q
- suit implicitly set
4♥
7 card solid ♥ suit4♠
shortness ask, slam interest, (bid up the line, showing closest shortage with two)
4♠
7 card solid ♠ suit4NT
shortness ask, slam interest, (bid up the line, showing closest shortage with two)
1♣ Interference
- In general assume that opener has the weak balanced hand.
- 2nd position 2 level interference assumes opener has the weak NT hand and uses Lebensohl.
When responder shows a weak hand such as the following and the opponents interfere...
- 1♣–1♦–(any)
- 1♣–(X)–P
- 1♣–(1S)–P–(2S)
...opener essentially bids as if the opponents opened the bidding, so our same defences to their opening bids,
except we know that the opener will be strong 16+.
Where transfers are used after interference, it is completed with 2–3 card support and raised
one more with 4+ card support. The weak NT hand may also bid 1NT with 2–3 card support and good stops.
Strong hands may break transfers in more interesting ways...
Note, 1♠ is the most disruptive 1 level (suit) overcall, possibly psychic or a poor 4 card suit, though expect to
see less pure disruption against a weak-strong club.
Bids below 1♠ are not disruptive unless the opponents raise further.
Differences with 1♦ interference
Compared to the 1♦ opening interference:
- The 1♦ opening is limited, so opener's Good-Bad 2NT is more extreme shape extras
- 1♣ can be strong unlimited so 2NT by opener is used for some 16+ hands
- In competition the 1 level major response to 1♣ are 6+, so system is off
- System remains on over 1♦ as the values don't really change and opener is limited
- support doubles/redoubles by opener maybe weak iff we have the higher ranked suit (so we could compete and win the 2
level or force the opponents to bid to the 3 level)
1♣–(X)
Pass
weakPass
strong hand with ♣sXX
escape, weak handothers
natural, strong hand(any)
interference, opener passes with a weak handothers
pretend they opened
(P) = penalty pass likelyXX
transfer to ♦s, 8+ hcp, system on without further interference1♦
2–3 ♦s, weak hand1NT
2–3 card support, weak NT with good stop2♣♦
Two Way NMF continuations
2♦
4+ ♦s, weak handothers
natural, strong hand
1♦
transfer, 4+ ♥s, 6+ hcp, system off1♥
2–3 card support, weak NT1NT
2–3 card support, weak NT with good stop2♣♦
Two Way NMF continuations
2♥
4+ card support, weak NT
1♥
transfer, 4+ ♠s, 6+ hcp, system off1♠
2–3 card support, weak NT1NT
2–3 card support, weak NT with good stop2♣♦
Two Way NMF continuations
2♠
4+ card support, weak NT
1♠
transfer to NT, no 4 card major1NT
transfer, 5+ ♣s, 8+ hcp, GF v.s. strong hand2♣♦♥♠
weak, ~5–7, sound weak two2NT
5–5 minors, GF versus strong hand3♣♦♥♠
preempt
1♣–(1D)
Dbl
negative, ~8+ hcp, 4–4+ majors2♠
GF, strong2NT
21+ balanced3♠
GF, extras good suit(3D)
jump interference3♥♠
competitive3NT
to play4♣
natural, GF4♥♠
~16–18, 4+ support
1♥♠
natural, 6+ hcp, system off1NT
natural ~6–92x
F1cue
two-suiter(2D)
interference2♥♠
weak, decent 5 cardsDbl
strong, takeout2♥♠
3 card scramble2NT
scrambling3♣♦
5 carders3♥♠
maximum, 3 cards
2♣
natural, F12♦
majors 5–5 (as opponents open 1♦ defence)2♥♠
~5–7 hcp, sound weak two2NT
♥s + ♣s 5–5 (as opponents open 1♦ defence)3♦
majors GF stronger (as opponents open 1♦ defence)3♣♥♠
preempt3♦
jump cue bid, stopper ask
1♣–(1H)
Pass
natural not game going v.s. strong hand, later bids balancingDbl
4–5 ♠s ~6+ hcp or 6+ ♠s invitational precisely, not GF if canapé1♠
~3 card support, weak NTcue
force2m
canapé2♠
5 card invite2NT
invite3m
invitational canapé3♠
6 card invite
1NT
~2 card support, weak NT hopefully with stop2♠
4+ card support, weak NT3♠
5+ support, 16–18(2H)
interferencePass
weak
2♠ = competitive 5 cards for double
2NT = natural with stop
3♠ = 6 card invite for doubleDbl
support, 3 cardscue
support3♠
5+ support, 16–18
(3H)
jump interferenceDbl
3+ card support, strong3♠
competitive4♣♦
natural, GF
1♠
4+ ♣s, not 4 ♠s unless GF and bidding natural suit order1NT
weak2♣
weak2♦♠
natural, strong2♥
strong, no stopper(2H)
interference2♠
weak, decent 5 cardsDbl
strong, takeout2NT
good ♣ raise3♣
competitive ♣ raise
1NT
natural, ~6–92x
F1cue
two-suiter(2H)
interference2♠
weak, decent 5 cardsDbl
strong, takeout2♠
3 cards2NT
scrambling3♣♦
minimal 5 carder
2♣
♦ transfer, 5+ ♦s, GF v.s. strong hand2♦
3 card ♠ suit, ~8–11 hcp, 3–2–4–4 or 3–1–(5–4)2♥
artificial, stop ask game interest OR strong2♠
natural, minimum weak NT2NT
natural, minimum weak NT3♣♦
preference, weak NT3♠
natural, 5 card maximum weak NT
2♥
♠ transfer, 6+ ♠s, weak/GF2♠
stop ask, invite plus (0–3♠, no ♥ stop maybe 4 though, 3–3+ minors), or trying NT transfer (may bid ♥s again)3♣♦
minimum weak NT, no stop
2NT
natural3♣♦
weak, natural3♥
♠ + minor, mild GF 2 suiter3♠
preempt4♣♦
♠ + minor, strong 2 suiter - max 5 losers, ♥ control (not 2 losers), e.g. AJxxx Ax AKxxx x or better4♠
to play, obstructive4NT
minors
1♣–(1S)
Dbl
4–5 ♥s ~8+ hcp or 6♥ invitational precisely, not GF if canapé1NT
weak, maybe no ♠ stopcue
force2NT
invite3♥
6 card invite
2♥
weak, 4+ card support3♥
5+ support, 16–18others
strong, natural(2♠)
natural interference raisePass
weak hand, not 4♥sX
4 ♥s, weak OR strong2NT
natural, strongothers
strong
(3♠)
interference, probably less than invitePass
weak or bad strong minimum hand
X = takeout again4♥
weak or strong, 5 card support likelyothers
strong
1NT
natural, ~6–92♣
♦ transfer, 5+ ♦s, 8+2♦
complete transfer, weak hand3♦
weak hand, 4+ supportothers
strong, natural
2♦
♥ transfer, 6+ ♥s, weak/GF2♥
complete transfer, weak hand3♥
weak hand, 4+ card supportothers
strong, natural
2♥
♣ showing, 10+2NT
NF minimum, stopper3♣
NF weak NT
2♠
♠ stop ask, or trying NT transfer (may bid ♠s again)3♣♦
minimum weak NT, no stop
2NT
natural invite3♣♦♥
preempt3♠
♥s + minor, mild GF 2 suiter3NT
natural, ~11–144♣♦
♥ + minor, strong 2 suiter - max 5 losers, ♠ control (not 2 losers), e.g. AJxxx Ax AKxxx x or better4♥
to play, obstructive
1♣–(1NT)
natural weak or strong, handle as similar 1x–(1NT) overcallsPass
natural, weak
any = strong, ordinary 1NT defence iff it's a natural NT
2NT = minors
3x = strong, good 6+ suitX
penaltyBid
As weak 1NT defence
1♣–(2C)
naturalX
stand in for 2♣ StaymanOthers
1NT system on
1♣–(2C)
Michaels - MajorsX
values, forcing to 2NT2♦
to play2♥♠
♣/♦ GF 5+ suit2NT
both minors (double with balanced/semi-balanced values)3♣
competitive, natural3♦
invitational good 6 card suit
1♣–(2DHS)
Pass
not good or < GF with penalty pass in opponents suitX
takeout, strong, again Lebensohl continuationsothers
natural, strong, defend as if opened weak two
(P) = nothing further by advancerX
takeout double, as Lebensohl systemCue
staymanicOthers
Lebensohl system3NT
natural
1♣–(2NT/3CDHS/4x)
any
as Overcalls of our NT except Thrump doubles over 3♦♥♠
2nd and 4th interfere, Responder Passes
1♣–(1x)–P–(any)
1NT
strong balanced, NT scheme follows2NT
strong balanced 22+, NT scheme followsX
penalty (may change this)
1♣–(1x)–P
Pass
weak NT openingDbl
strong, opener re-openingnextSuit
herbert negative, ~0–4 hcp2x
~4–7, natural2NT+
natural, forcing
1♥♠
maybe weak NTothers
strong hand, bid as if they opened
4th interferes, maybe 2nd, Responder positive
X by 4th after some 1 level transfer bid, e.g:
1♣–(X)–1♥–(X)
Pass
weak, 2 card supportXX
3 card support, weak (may win 2 level) or strong1♠
accept transfer example, weak hand, 3 card support1NT
weak hand, NT friendly, 2–3 card support2♠
raise, accept, weak hand, 4 card support2NT
jump 2NT limit plus raise system as over 1M3♣♦♥
acol 2 type3♠
weak 5 card max supportothers
natural, strong
X by 4th after some 2 level transfer bid, e.g:
1♣–(1S)–2♣–(X)
Pass
weak, 2 card supportXX
strong hand, 3 card support (cannot win 2 level so not weak)2♦
accept transfer example, weak hand, 3+ support2♥
strong, natural2♠
general force2NT
strong, naturalish3♦
strong hand, 4+ support3♥
acol 2 type3♠
splinter4♣
acol 2 typeothers
natural, strong
1 level takeout by 4th:
1♣–(1D)–1♥–(X)
Pass
weak, no stopXX
3 card support, weak (may win 2 level) or strong1NT
weak natural, ♠ stop2♦
general force2♥
weak 4+ card2NT
jump 2NT limit plus raise system as over 1M3♥
weak 5 card max supportothers
strong
1 level overcall by 4th:
1♣–(1D)–1♥–(1S)
Pass
weak, no stopX
strong, 3 card support (cannot win 2 level so not weak)1NT
weak natural, ♠ stop2♦
general force2♥
weak 4+ card2NT
jump 2NT limit plus raise system as over 1M3♥
weak 5 card max supportothers
strong
Suit bid where opener can support responder at 2 level after interference:
1♣–(1D)–1♠–(2D)
Pass
weak hand, 2 card supportX
3 card support, weak (may win 2 level) or strong2♥
strong, natural2♠
weak hand, support2NT
Good-Bad, usually GF strong support, else ~16–18 ♣s3♣
strong, ~19+ natural3♦
cue, general strong force3♥
acol 23♠
invitational, support ~16–18
1♣–(P)–1♠–(2D)
Pass
weak hand, 2 card supportX
3 card support, weak (may win 2 level) or strong2♥
strong natural2♠
weak hand, support2NT
Good-Bad, usually GF strong support, else ~16–18 ♣s3♣
strong, ~19+ natural3♦
cue, general strong force3♥
acol 23♠
invitational, support ~16–18
Good-Bad 2NT response to opener's re-opening double:
- Not scrambling with multiple places to play, but distinguishing strength.
- good major and a weaker minor goes by 2NT
- direct minor is good, direct major is competitive
1♣–(1S)–P–(2S)
Dbl
re-opening2NT
good ♥s max (or extras with 5 ♥s) bid OR a weak minor3♣♦
good minor3♥
competitive ♥s bid
1♣–(2S)–P–(P)
Dbl
takeout2NT
Transfer Lebensohl etc. (here playing as defending 2S opening)
2NT over 2♦♥♠ interference by 4th hand:
Treated as weak two opening, so natural ~16–19
Suit bid where opener can only support responder at 3+ level, e.g:
1♣–(1H)–2♣–(2H)
♦ transfer, natural 2 level raise not availablePass
weakX
strong hand, takeout (not support double for a minor suit)2♠
natural, strong2NT
Good-Bad, usually strong support, OR ~16–18 ♣s3♣
natural, ~19+3♦
4+ support, competitive weak NT3♥
general force3♠
acol 24♣
acol 24♦
4 minor raise is minorwood RKB
1♣–(1S)–X–(2S)
4–5 ♥ or (6♥ invitational precisely)X
4♥s, strong ~16–182NT
Good-Bad, usually ~19+ strong support, OR ~16–18 ♣s/♦s3♣♦
natural, ~19+3♥
competitive, weak3♠
general force4♣♦
acol 24♥
winging it
1♣–(1H)–X–(3H)
4–5 ♠ or 6♠ invitational preciselyX
strong, support3♠
weak4♣♦
natural4♥
cue, slam try4♠
winging it
Jump interference:
1♣–(X)–1♦–(2S)
takeout then jump to 2♠, partner shows ♥ transferPass
2–3 support, weakX
takeout, strong2NT
Good-Bad, usually ~19+ strong support, OR ~16–18 ♣s/♦s3♣♦
natural, ~19+3♥
competitive, weak3♠
general force4♣♦
acol 24♥
winging it4♠
RKB
1♣–(1H)–1NT–(3H)
Pass
weakX
penalty, following natural NT
1♣–(1S)–X–(3S)
Pass
weakX
takeout/responsive
Double jump plus interference:
1♣–(P)–1♦–(3S)
Pass
weakbid
strong, as partner is weak bid as if they openedX
takeout
1♣–(X)–1♦–(3S)
Pass
weakbid
strongX
penalty/values
1♣–(P)–1♥–(3S)
Pass
weakbid
strongX
penalty/values
4th interferes after 2♥/2♠/2NT positive response
1♣–(P)–2♥–(X)
often showing ♥sPass
weak hand, without ♥ stop and extrasXX
natural, strongothers
system on
1♣–(P)–2♥/2NT–(bid)
something suit showingPass
weak hand, no stopX
takeout2NT
weak hand, NF minimum, stop3NT
weak or strong, stopsuit
natural, strong
1♣–(P)–2♠–(X)
often showing ♠sPass
weak hand, no stopXX
5+ ♠s, strong handothers
system on, 2NT will promise ♠ stop
1♣–(P)–2♠–(bid)
something suit showing
4th interferes after 3♣♦♥♠/3NT/4♣♦♥♠
After 3♣♦♥♠ bid as if partner opened a preempt, e.g.
See 3♥♠ opening interference
For the 3NT/4♣♦♥♠ responses it should be easy to place the contract or slam try or X for penalty.
4th Interferes after Responder Negative
Bid as if they opened.
1♣–(P)–1♦
negative response(X)
whatever, likely not muchPass
vague hand
any = to play
XX = escapeXX
big balanced or GF unbalanced handbid
strong hand2x+
extra strong
(1x)
whatever, continuations same as 1♣-(1x)-P
1♦ Opening
Short / Nebulous ♦ for flattish or 3 suited or both minors or extreme shape maximum 6+♦ and 5♥/♠ hands.
- Zero plus ♦ cards
- 11–13 balanced/semi-balanced hands with 2+ card ♦ suit (poor vulnerable 11 hcp flat may pass)
- 11–13 balanced hands in principle do not include any 5 card major hands
- 11–15 unbalanced 3 suiter (4–4–4–1 / 5–4–4–0 / 5–4–3–1) any short suit and without a 5 card major, so maybe minor canapé
- 11–15 both minors 5–4 / 5–5 (6–5 maximum could also use for more space), so maybe minor canapé.
- Rare extreme shape hands with extras include 6(7)♦–5♥/♠
Other bids:
- Often open 2♣/2♦ with minimum 6–5 both minors and 2♣ with 6–6 minor hands
- A maximum 6–5 minors can be supported by 1♦ or the 2♣/2♦ openings, experiment
- Open 2♦ with a 7♦–4♥/♠ hand
- Improvise with 8♦–4♥/♠, probably best to open higher with 2♦ expecting competition. It's a very rare 1:2211 frequency anyway.
- Open 1♣ with any (13)14–15 weak NT like hand, including many 5–4–2–2 five card ♣/♦ hands
- Open 1♥ or 1♠ with an 11–13 hcp 5–3–3–2 major, unless willing to pretend it is a 4 card suit
- Open 1♥ or 1♠ with a minimum 6♦ and 5 card ♥/♠ hand and bid like a 5–5 hand
1♦
11–13 flat; or 11–15 3 suited no 5 card major or both minors (5–4 / 5–5); or maximum 6+♦–5♥/♠(any)
1♦ interference1♥
natural, 4+ cards, maybe longer minor canapé1♠
natural, 4+ cards, maybe longer minor canapé1NT
natural, up to 11 hcp, no 4 card major2♣
10+ natural, maybe 6+–4 GF with 4 card major2♦
10+ natural, maybe 6+–4 GF with 4 card major2♥
5♠s + 4–5♥s, weak (~5–9)2NT
game try3♣
min 5–43♦
max 5–43♥
min 5–53♠
max 5–5
3♣
5–5+ minors, NF
2♠
5♠s + 4–5♥s, invitational (~10–12)2NT
game try3♣
min 5–43♦
max 5–43♥
min 5–53♠
max 5–5
3♣
5–5+ minors, NF
2NT
natural invitational ~(11)–12(13), no 4 card major, usually very flat 4–4–3–2/4–3–3–3, normally no 5 card minor. Can bid 2♦ to rightside NT with one major stop. With zero major stops probably look to bid 2♣ with a 4 card ♣ suit or 2♦.3♣♦
natural, NF3♥♠
stop show4♣
minor two-suiter, GF, unlikely as 6–5 hands can open 2♣/2♦4♥♠
6♦–5M hands
3♣
5–4(+) minors, either minor longer, 5–9 hcp, usually a singleton major3♦
signoff4♣♦
extras, unbalanced
3♦
weak jump shift, 6+ ♦s, 0–9 hcp, NF3♥♠
mini-splinter, ♦ game try3NT
stops and ♦ fit, e.g. Ax/Ax/Kxxx/Axxxx4♣
mini-splinter, ♦ game try4♦
big ♦ fit invite, denies a singleton, NF4♥♠
6♦–5M+
3♥♠
preempt3NT
natural, good 12–17, no 4 card major, stops4♣♦
natural, forcing, slam try4♥♠
6♦–5M4♠
Kickback4NT
RKB or ♠ substitute cue bid
4NT
quantitative
4♣
5–5+ minors, 5–9 hcp4♦
preempt4♥♠
natural, to play, obstructive, sets suit as trumps (passed hand fit jump e.g. 6–6 shape!)4NT
quantitative5♣♦
natural, to play, obstructive
1♦–1♥
Natural, 4+ cards, maybe longer minor canapé
1♠
exactly 4 ♠s (always bid with 4 ♠s), may have 3 card ♥ support (note 5♠–6♦ open 1♠ or open 1♦ reverse to 2♠)1NT
flattish 11–13, denies 4 ♠s, maybe 3♥s, could be singleton ♥ or semi-balanced2♣
natural, NF, 5–4+ minors either way, denies 4 ♠s or 3 ♥s, often 14–15 hcp unless min 5–5+ minors2♦
good ♥ raise, maybe 3 card shapely ♥ support; OR minimum 4 card void raise2♥
normal/weaker ♥ raise, maybe 3 ♥s if have singleton2♠
natural, NF, 6–5, extras2NT
14–15, ♣ mini-splinter 4 card ♥ raise3♣
14–15, 5–5+ both minors3♦
NF3♥
forcing, 6+ cards4♣♦
forcing, encouraging a cue or Redwood
3♦
14–15, ♦ mini-splinter 4 card ♥ raise3♥
14–15, ♠ mini-splinter 4 card ♥ raise3♠
14–15, ♠ void-splinter,4 card ♥ raise3NT
serious (not obscure length or minor ask)
3NT
6(7)♦–5♥ support, some void4♣
void ask, slam try4♦
♦ tolerance (top Hx) or better4♥
to play4♠
Kickback RKB for ♥s
4♣
14–15, ♣ void-splinter, 4 card ♥ raise4♦
artificial, Double Fit RKB4♥
to play4♠
Kickback RKB for ♥s
4♦
14–15, ♦ void-splinter, 4 card ♥ raise4♥
to play4♠
Kickback RKB for ♥s4NT
Double Fit RKB
4♥
big support and shape, 1–6♦–5♥–1 max type hand4♠
Kickback RKB for ♥s4NT
Double Fit RKB
1♦–1♥–1♠
1♠
exactly 4 ♠s (always bid with 4 ♠s), may have 3 card ♥ support (note 5♠–6♦ open 1♠ or open 1♦ reverse to 2♠)Pass
3+ ♠s, no game chance1NT
natural, 6–10(11), any shape where 1NT seems okPass
most hands with no game interest2♣♦
14–15, natural, 5 cards 4–1–(3–5) or 4–2–(2–5) long minor, NOT FSF2♥
natural, 5 cards, not worth initial 2♥ bid over 1♦ or 1♠ rebid2♠
Hxx+ 3 card ♠ support, presumably weak in other minor may play 7 card ♠ fit2NT
to play3♣♦
game try, presumably stop concern in other minor
2♠
14–15, 4–1–4–4 or 4–0–(4–5) either long minor2NT
to play3♣♦
to play3NT
to play
2NT
14–15, 3 card ♥ support, 4–3–(1–5) either long minor3♣♦
paradox minor support3♥
to play
2♣
puppet to 2♦, invitational or weak ♦ signoff2♦
puppeted2♥
invitational, exactly 5♥s, opener probably bids on with any 3 card support2NT
decline, e.g. singleton3♣♦
game try
2♠
mild invite, 4 card ♠ support, flattish unlike direct 3♠2NT
natural3♣
4♥ and 5♣s, invitational3♦
4♥ and 5♦s, invitational3♥
natural, invitational, 6 ♥s3♠
5+ card, mixed raise like distributional invite ~8–(10)
2♥
4+ ♦s with 3♥s, ♦ super-accept, non-minimum
2♦
artificial, GF2♥
3 card ♥ support2♠
Hx ♥ support (higher priority than 3♣♦)2NT
♥ singleton (lowest priority)3♣
5 ♣s3♦
5 ♦s3♥
♥ doubleton, not Hx support
2♥
6+ ♥s, natural NF, ~6–9, wider strength without weak jump shift2♠
4 card support flattish 6–9(10), not worth mixed raise via 2♣2NT
puppet, ♣ signoff or 4–4–4–1 GF3♣
completePass
signoffother
natural, baron 4 card suits
3new
5–5+ slam interest3♥
6+ suit, slam interest3♠
invite distributional ♠ raise, ~10–12 (use 2♣ if flatter)3NT
natural, short ♥s and good ♣ stoppers (not a serious auction, responder limited)
3NT
natural4♣
splinter for ♠4♦
splinter for ♠4♥
natural, too strong for direct 1♦–4♥ bid4♠
to play4NT
RKB for ♠
1♦–1♥–1NT
- 11–13, which maybe offshape with shortage in partner's major or semi-balanced
- 14–15 (minors or 3 suited) hands will bid something else with a risk of skipping a reasonable 1NT contract
- By judgement may treat a 4–4–4–1 14–15 hand as balanced, especially with a stiff honour
1NT
flattish 11–13, 2+ ♦s still, denies 4 ♠s, could be singleton ♥ or semi-balanced2♣
puppet to 2♦, invitational or weak ♦ signoff2♦
puppeted2♥
invitational, exactly 5♥s, opener probably bids on with any 3 card support2NT
decline, e.g. singleton3♣♦
game try
2♠
4–4–1–4 invitational2NT
natural3♣
4♥ and 5+♣s, invitational3♦
4♥ and 5+♦s, invitational3♥
natural, invitational, 6 ♥s
2♥
break, 4+ ♦s with 3♥s, ♦ super-accept, non-minimum
2♦
artificial GF, mostly natural continuations, priority show 3 card ♥ support2♥
3 card ♥ support2♠
Hx ♥ support (higher priority than 3♣♦)2NT
♥ singleton (lowest priority)3♣
5 ♣s3♦
5 ♦s3♥
♥ doubleton, not Hx support
2♥
6+ ♥s, natural NF, ~6–9, wider strength without weak jump shift2♠
5–6 majors, invitational (bid 3♠ with GF 6–5)2NT
puppet, ♣ signoff or 4–4–4–1 GF3♣
completePass
signoffother
natural, baron 4 card suits
3new
5–5+ slam interest3♥
6+ suit, slam interest4♣♦♠
self/auto-splinter big ♥ suit, slam try4♥
to play
1♦–1♥–2♣
Remember any maximum 5–5+ minors hand rebids 3♣ over 1M, so a shapely 5–5+ is minimum hcp
2♣
natural, NF, 5–4+ either way in ♣s + ♦s, denies 4 ♠s or 3♥s, often 14–15 hcp unless min 5–5 minors2♦
simple preference, NF, natural continuations2♥
6+ ♥s, natural NF, ~8–102♠
FSF, invite plus2NT
natural, invitational, expects game v.s. 14–153♣♦
natural, invitational3♥
natural, 6+ ♥s, invitational (use FSF with ♥ slam try)3♠
6♥ + 5♠ or more, natural, forcing (PASSED hand ♠ splinter with ♣ support)3NT
misfit minor hand4♣♦
♥/♠ slam try, 2+ Keycards (cannot have a good 5–5+ minors hand!)
3NT
natural4♣
forcing (when 3♣♦ invitational 4♣♦ is always forcing)4♦
Redwood RKB4♥
to play4♠
control bid4NT
♦ control bid (substitute) - no double fit5♣
minimum, to play
4♦
forcing4♥
to play4♠
cue4NT
Redwood RKB for ♦s5♣
♣ control bid5♦
minimum, to play
4♥
to play4♠
splinter for ♣, avoids 3NT (PASSED hand void splinter as 3♠ is then a singleton splinter)
1♦–1♥–2♦
- NOT flat 11–13
- Unsuitable for jump support bids that show maximums with 4 card support
2♦
good ♥ raise, maybe 3 card shapely ♥ support; OR minimum 4 card void raise (5–4–4–0)2♥
to play3♥
minimum 4 card void raise
others
as 1♦–1♥–2♥
1♦–1♥–2♥
2♥
normal/weaker ♥ raise, often flat 11–13, maybe 3 ♥s if have singleton2♠
natural GF, maybe double fit slam hunting2NT
natural, 4 ♥s, NF invitationalPass
minimum, probably 3 card supportnew
maximum, 3 card support3♥
minimum, 4 card support3♠/4♣♦
splinter4♥
maximum, 4 card support
3♣♦
natural GF, maybe double fit slam hunting3♥
5+ ♥s, NF invitational3♠
5+ ♥s, splinter3NT
natural, 4♥s, choice of game4♣♦
5+ ♥s, splinter
1♦–1♥–2♠
2♠
natural, NF, 6–52NT
invitational, natural3♣
FSF, probably wanting ♣ help for 3NT3♦
sign off3♥
GF 6♥s+ strong single suiter3♠
GF ♠ support, slam try3NT
to play4♣
splinter ♠ support, possibly only 3 card support4♦
splinter ♠ support4♥♠
to play
1♦–1♠
Natural, 4+ cards, maybe longer minor canapé
1NT
flattish 11–13 usually, maybe 3♠s, could be singleton ♠ (maybe 14–15 4♥s) or semi-balanced2♣
natural, NF, 4–4+ minors either way, denies 3 ♠s, often 14–15 hcp unless min 5–5+ minors2♦
good ♠ raise, maybe 3 card shapely ♠ support; OR minimum 4 card void raise2♥
natural, NF, 6–5, extras2♠
normal/weaker ♠ raise, maybe 3 ♠s if have singleton2NT
14–15, ♣ mini-splinter 4 card ♠ raise3♣
14–15, 5–5+ both minors3♦
NF3♠
forcing, 6+ cards4♣♦
forcing, encouraging a cue or Redwood
3♦
14–15, ♦ mini-splinter 4 card ♠ raise3♥
14–15, ♥ mini-splinter 4 card ♠ raise3♠
14–15, ♥ void-splinter, 4 card ♠ raise3NT
serious (not obscure length or minor ask)4new
natural slam try (no last train, too limited)
3NT
6(7)♦–5♠ support, some void4♣
void ask, slam try4♦
♦ tolerance (top Hx) or better4♥
cue4♠
to play4NT
RKB for ♠s
4♣
14–15, ♣ void-splinter4♦
natural slam try4♥
natural slam try (no last train, too limited)
4♦
14–15, ♦ void-splinter4♥
natural slam try (no last train, too limited)
4♠
big support and shape, 6♦–5♠–1–1 max type hand
1♦–1♠–1NT
1NT
flattish 11–13 usually, maybe 3♠s, could be singleton ♠ (maybe 14–15 4♥s) or semi-balanced2♣
puppet to 2♦, invitational or weak ♦ signoff2♦
puppeted2♥
invitational, 5–4+ in the majors2♠
invitational, 5♠s (opener should raise with 3 card support and minimum)2NT
natural3♣
4♠ and 5+♣s, invitational3♦
4♠ and 5+♦s, invitational3♥
strongly invitational, 5–5+ majors3♠
natural, invitational, 6 ♠s
2♥
break, 4+ ♦s with 4♥s, ♦ super-accept, non-minimum2♠
break, 4+ ♦s with 3♠s (not 4♥s), ♦ super-accept, non-minimum
2♦
artificial, GF, mostly natural continuations2♥
Hx ♠ support (higher priority than 3♣♦)2♠
3 card ♠ support2NT
♠ singleton (lowest priority)3♣
5 ♣s3♦
5 ♦s3♥
♠ doubleton, 4♥s stopper3♠
♠ doubleton
2♥
natural, NF, less than invitational (else 2♣ over 1NT)2♠
6+ ♠s, natural NF, ~6–9, wider strength without weak jump shift2NT
puppet, ♣ signoff or 4–4–4–1 GF3♣
completePass
signoffother
natural, baron 4 card suits
3new
5–5+ slam interest3♠
6+ suit, slam interest4♣♦♥
self/auto-splinter for ♠4♠
to play, even though opener often has a singleton
1♦–1♠–2♣
- Remember any maximum 5–5+ minors hand rebids 3♣ over 1M, so a shapely 5–5+ is minimum hcp
- Minimum 1–4–4–4 would bid 1NT
- Maximum 1–4–4–4 is awkward, probably best NT, but a minimum partner with 5♠s and 4♥s cannot bid FSF
and has to choose a minor to sign off in
2♣
natural, NF, 4–4+ minors either way, denies 3 ♠s, often 14–15 hcp unless min 5–5+ minors2♦
simple preference, NF, natural continuations2♥
FSF, invite plus2♠
6+ ♠s, natural NF, ~8–102NT
natural, invitational, expects game v.s. 14–153♣♦
natural, invitational3♥
6♠ + 5♥ or more, natural, forcing (PASSED hand ♠ splinter with ♣ support)3NT
misfit minor hand4♣♦
♥/♠ slam try, 2+ Keycards (cannot have a good 5–5+ minors hand)
3♠
natural, 6+ ♠s, invitational (use FSF with ♠ slam try)3NT
natural4♣
forcing (when 3♣♦ invitational 4♣♦ is always forcing)4♦
Redwood RKB4♥
control bid4♠
to play4NT
♦ control bid (substitute) - no double fit5♣
minimum, to play
4♦
forcing4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s4♠
to play4NT
♠ control bid (substitute)5♣
♣ control bid5♦
minimum, to play
4♥
splinter for ♣4♠
to play
1♦–1♠–2♦
- NOT flat 11–13
- Unsuitable for jump support bids that show maximums with 4 card support
2♦
good ♠ raise, maybe 3 card shapely ♠ support; OR minimum 4 card void raise2♥
natural GF, maybe double fit slam hunting2♠
to play3♠
minimum 4 card void raise
3♥
splinterothers
as 1♦–1♠–2♠
1♦–1♠–2♥
2♥
natural, NF, 6♦–5♥, extras2♠
invitational2NT
invitational, natural3♣
FSF3♦
sign off3♥
GF ♥ support, slam try3♠
GF, strong single suiter4♣
splinter, ♥ support4♦
natural, forcing setting ♦s as trumps4♥♠
to play
1♦–1♠–2♠
2♠
normal/weaker ♠ raise, maybe 3 ♠s if have singleton2NT
natural, 4 ♠s, NF invitationalPass
minimum, probably 3 card supportnew
maximum, 3 card support3♠
minimum, 4 card support4♣♦♥
splinter4♠
maximum, 4 card support
3♣♦♥
natural GF, maybe double fit slam hunting3♠
5+ ♠s, NF invitational3NT
natural, 4♠s4♣♦♥
5+ ♠s, splinter4NT
RKB for ♠s5♣♦
EKB Voidwood for ♠s
1♦–1NT
Natural, up to 11 hcp, no 4 card major
- fairly catchall if not suitable for other bids
2♣♦
natural, 5 cards, unknown other minor length, often maximum 5–4–2–2 (often pass part score hands)2♦
natural, weak, dislikes opener's minor (beware 3 suiters with both majors though)2NT
natural, invitational, major stops3♣♦
raise natural, invitational, game try3om
weak
2♥♠
6–5 hand, extras (6♦, 5 major minimum hands open 1♥/♠)2NT
max invitational, various shapes3♣
both minors 5–5+, maximum, mostly pre-emptive3♦
to play3♥♠
stop showing4♣♦
invitational, double fit
3♦
7♦s + 5♣s3♥♠
7♦s + 5 ♥s/♠s4♦
sign off, by either partner
1♦–2♣
Invitational plus.
- 2♣ then immediate 3♣/3♦ is only invite
- 6♣–4M GF with major bids 2♣ first
- 5♣–4M GF with major bids 1♥♠ first
- still usually bid 1♥♠ with rare non-GF and 6♣–5♥/♠
2♦
natural unbalanced 5♦s, without 4+ ♣s2♥♠
quasi natural, GF3♣♦
NF
2♥
artificial, 11–13 balanced (maybe awkward minimum 4–4–1–4)2♠
puppet, often like NT transfer2NT
complete puppet3♣♦
natural, slam interest3x
control bid, agree last suit
3♥♠
6–4 minor/major GF3NT
to play, NT transferred
2NT
slam interest, flattish, 4+ minor ask3♣
NF3♥♠
6–53NT
to play, wants to declare
2♠
artificial, unknown splinter2NT
splinter ask3♣
NF, a minimum splinter could pass
2NT
4–4–4–1 minimum3♣
minimum, minors 2–2–(5–4) either way3♦
maximum (4–1)–5–3, awkward to slam find a 4–4 major fit3♥♠
6–53NT
4–4–4–1 maximum4♣
♣ void, 7♦ + 5♥, maximum4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♥
to play4♠
Kickback RKB for ♥s4NT
double fit RKB5♣
to play, extreme self-sufficient ♣ suit5♦
to play
4♦
♣ void, 7♦ + 5♠, maximum4♥
♦ RKB4♠
to play4NT
double fit RKB (♠s is secondary suit)5♣
to play, extreme self-sufficient ♣ suit5♦
to play
4♥
other major void, 7♦ + 5♥, maximum4♠
double fit RKB4NT
♦ RKB5♣
to play5♦
to play
4♠
other major void, 7♦ + 5♠, maximum4NT
double fit RKB5♣
to play5♦
to play
1♦–2♦
Invitational plus.
- 2♦ then immediate 3♣/3♦ is only invite
- 6♦–4M GF with major bids 2♦ first
- 5♦–4M GF with major bids 1♥♠ first
- still usually bid 1♥♠ with rare non-GF and 6♦–5♥/♠
2♥
artificial, 11–13 balanced (maybe awkward minimum (4–1)–3–5)2♠
puppet, often like NT transfer2NT
complete puppet3♣♦
natural, slam interest3♦
set suit3M
control bid, agree last suit
3♥♠
6–4 minor/major GF3NT
to play, NT transferred
2NT
slam interest, flattish, 4+ minor ask3♣♦
NF, invitational3♥♠
6–53NT
to play, wants to declare
2♠
artificial, unknown splinter2NT
splinter ask3♦
NF, a minimum splinter could pass
2NT
4–4–1–4 minimum3♣
minimum, minors 2–2–(5–4) either way3♦
maximum (4–1)–3–5, awkward to slam find a 4–4 major fit3♥♠
6–53NT
4–4–4–1 maximum4♣
♣ void, 6/7♦ + 5♥, maximum4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♥
to play4♠
double fit RKB5♣
void cue5♦
to play
4♦
♣ void, 6/7♦ + 5♠, maximum4♥
♦ RKB4♠
to play4NT
double fit RKB5♣
void cue5♦
to play
4♥
other major void, 6/7♦ + 5♥, maximum4♠
double fit RKB4NT
♦ RKB5♣
void cue5♦
to play
4♠
other major void, 6/7♦ + 5♠, maximum4NT
double fit RKB5♣
void cue5♦
to play
1♦ interference
1♦–(X)
Pass
some ♦ length, later X are penalty suggestion, usually 4 cards in bid suitXX
♥ transfer, 4+ cards, system on without further interference1♥
3 cards typically, puts doubler on lead2♦
good ♥ raise2♥
normal ♥ raiseOthers
system on
1♥
♠ transfer, 4+ cards, system on without further interference1♠
3 cards typically, puts doubler on lead2♦
good ♠ raise2♠
normal ♠ raiseOthers
system on
1♠
NT transfer, no major1NT
limited, often balanced2♣♦
NFother
natural, invitational
others
system on
1NT
♣ transfer, good 8+ hcpbreak
short ♣scue/jump
only forcing bids
jump
fit jump2NT
♣ super-accept, (e.g. balanced hand that would accept suit invite)
2♣
♦ transfer, good 8+ hcpbreak
short ♦scue/jump
only forcing bids
jump
fit jump2NT
♦ super-accept
2♦
weak2♥♠
weak jump shift, system on2NT
minors, unusual3♣
preempt 5–4(+) minors3♦♥♠
preempt3NT
to play4♣
preempt 5–5(+) minors4♦♥♠
preempt4NT
minors, unusual
1♦–(X)–Pass
some ♦ length, later X are penalty suggestion, usually 4 cards in bid suit(P)
opponents penalty passPass
by opener, also indicates some ♦s, probably 4 cardsXX
runout1♥♠
probably only 4 cards2♣
suggests 5 cards
(2D)
opponents cueX
decents ♦s, lead directing, inviting support
1♦–(1H)
Dbl
4–5 ♠s ~6+ hcp or 6+ ♠s invitational precisely, system on without further interference1NT
natural, Two Way NMF continuations2♦
good ♠ raise2♠
normal ♠ raise(3H)
higher interferenceX
4 ♠s, ~14–15 support3♠
competitive4♣
both minors
1♠
4+ ♣s1NT
0–2 support(2H)
interferenceDbl
support2NT
good ♣ raise3♣
competitive ♣ raise
1NT
natural2♠
6–5 hand3♣
5–5+ minors, maximum
2♣
♦ transfer, good 8+ hcpbreak
short ♦scue/jump
only forcing bids
jump
fit jump2NT
♦ super-accept
2♦
3 card ♠ suit, ~6–9, 3–1–(5–4) or good 3–2–4–42♥
force2NT
NF, minimum with stopper3♦
NF, minimum no stopper
2♥
♠ transfer, 6+ ♠s, weak/GFbreak
short ♠s, probably not minimumcue/jump
only forcing bids
jump
fit jump
2♠
stop ask, invite plus, or trying NT transfer (may bid ♥s again)2NT
natural3♣
preempt 5–4(+) minors3♦
weak, natural3♥
♠ + minor, mild GF 2 suiter3♠
preempt3NT
to play4♣♦
♠ + minor, strong 2 suiter - max 5 losers, ♥ control (not 2 losers), e.g. AJxxx Ax AKxxx x or better4♠
to play, obstructive4NT
minors, unusual
1♦–(1S)
Dbl
4–5 ♥s ~(8)9+ hcp or 6♥ invitational precisely, system on without further interference1NT
natural, Two Way NMF continuations2♦
good ♥ raise2♥
normal ♥ raise(2S)
opponents raiseDbl
support 3 ♥s, 14–15 hcp2NT
Good-Bad with strong support or weaker minors hand3♣♦
minors 5–5+, maximum3♥
competitive, 4♥s, 11–13 hcp
1NT
natural2♥
6–5 hand3♣
5–5+ minors, maximum
2♣
♦ transfer, 5+ ♦s, good 8+break
short ♦scue/jump
only forcing bids
jump
fit jump2NT
♦ super-accept
2♦
♥ transfer, 6+ ♥s, weak/GFbreak
short ♥s, probably not minimum 3 suitercue/jump
only forcing bids
jump
fit jump2NT
inconvenient 3 suiter (short transfer suit, extras)
2♥
♣s, 5+ cards(unless GF), 10+ invite plus2NT
NF minimum, stopper3♣
NF, no stopperjump
fit jump
2♠
♠ stop ask / trying NT transfer (may bid ♠s again)2NT
natural3♣
preempt 5–4(+) minors3♦♥
weak, natural3♠
♥s + minor, mild GF 2 suiter3NT
to play4♣♦
♥ + minor, strong 2 suiter - max 5 losers, ♥ control (not 2 losers), e.g. AJxxx Ax AKxxx x or better4♥
to play, obstructive4NT
minors, unusual
1♦–(1M)–P–(2M)
then passed around to responderX
takeout with both minors (would negative X with other major), suits too weak for transfer e.g. xx/xx/AQxx/Qxxxx
1♦–(1NT)
X
penalty rarely GF, after escape opener can still use good-bad 2NT or cue to GF whilst responder can bid 2NT natural, 3x NF or also cue to GFBid
As weak 1NT defence3♣♦
preempt
1♦–(1NT)–P–P
X
takeout2♣♦
natural, 5–4/5–5 probably2♥♠
6♦–5♥/♠ maximum2NT
5–5 minors, max3♣♦
extreme 6m–5om constructive maximum, avoided opening 2♣/♦
1♦–(2C)
Dbl
stand in for 2♣ StaymanOthers
1NT system on
1♦–(2D)
assuming michaels, both majorsX
values, forcing to 2NT2♥
♣s, GF 5+ suit2♠
♦s, GF 5+ suit2NT
both minors (double with balanced/semi-balanced values)3♣♦
competitive, natural
1♦–(2D)
naturalX
both majors (or equal level conversion)2♥
natural2♠
natural2NT
natural3♣
natural, GF3♦
♦ stop ask3♥♠
GF 6+ suit
1♦–(2HS/2NT/3CDHS/4x)
any
as Overcalls of our NT
1♦–(any)–any–(2C)
2NT
good hand, ♦s and ♣ stop (similar to a natural 3♦ bid)
Opener's cue bid
When partner bids 1♥/♠ and the opponent bids (double or overcall) at the 1 level, or
with less nuance if they bid at the 2 level.
1♦–(P)–1♥–(1S)
2♠
best invitational ♥ raise, maximum and shape3♥
weak limit (4 card support, shape, probably a singleton)others
system on
1♦–(1H)–X–(P)
1♠
nothing special2♥
best invitational 4 card ♠ support2♠
weak limit (4 card support, shape, probably a singleton)others
system on
1♦–(1H)–1♠–(P)
showing ♣s2♣
nothing special2♥
best invitational 4 card ♣ support, maximum and shape3♣
weak limit ♣ raise (4 card support, shape, probably a singleton)
Still on if 2nd position overcalls and advancer only bids 1NT/2♣/2♦ in 4th.
1♦–(1H)–1♠–(1NT/2C/2D)
X
3 card support double, not rubbish if forced 3 level2♣
4 card support, often dead minimum2♥
best invitational 4 card ♣ support, maximum and shape3♣
weak limit ♣ raise (4 card support, shape, probably a singleton)
When they only overcall 2x then our cue bid is less nuanced at the 3 level. It is NOT a
stopper ask, as only natural invitational 3♦ rebids (e.g. xx/Axx/AKQJxx/xxx) would benefit.
1♦–(P)–1♠–(2C)
3♣
good 3♠ raise3♠
weaker ♠ raiseX
support, not rubbish VULothers
system on
Support doubles and redoubles by opener
- responder's 1 level bid shows a suit (often 1H/1S but could be an artificial minor showing bid)
- 4th hand bids, even NT bids
- 2nd hand's bid is irrelevant
- opener can X/XX or do a direct raise
- not required with xxx, especially with good defensive holdings
- responder's continuations are natural - NF 1NT (maybe no stop) or 2 level bid, invitational 2NT or 3 level, cue bid only GF
- normal raises are usually 4 cards, though may want to bid with 3 cards to protect an honour, e.g. 1♦–(1♥)–X–(2♥)–2♠
1♦–(X)–1♥–(1NT)
X
support double, 3 card support (♠s)raise
4 card support (♠ in this case as 1♥ shows ♠s)
1♦–(P)–1♥–(2C)–X–(P)
2♦
NF 3+ ♦s, considering something better than a 4–3 ♥ fit2♥
NF natural2♠
natural 4–4 majors, forcing, invitational plus
Extended to the 3 level, (note penalty unlikely with an artificial 1♣ system) but with more strength/shape:
1♦–(1S)–X–(2S)
X
support double, 14–15 hcp2NT
good bad3♥
4 card support, 11–13
Extended through to 4♥, again more strength needed so not doubling does not deny 3 card support:
1♦–(X)–1♥–(3H)
X
support, 3 card support (for the ♠ transfer suit here), shapely maximum
4NT = RKB for Major
4thSuit = unspecified slam try
Includes 4th hands bids where 2nd hand does not bid at all:
1♦–(P)–1♠–(P)–2♠–(X)
XX
responder now shows 5 cards, inviting opener to compete 3♠
Good-Bad 2NT over 2♦♥♠ interference by 4th hand
- Good-Bad 2NT is usually strong/good support or a bad/worse lower suit bid
- As a 1♦ opener cannot have a long single suit, bad/worse will be both minors
1♦–(any)–any–(2DHS)
2NT
Good-Bad with strong support or weaker minors hand (e.g. 5–4 14–15)3♣♦
minors 5–5+, maximum
Choice of game 4x cue bids after Thrump double
- Iff our side shown values and not found a fit, constructive auction
- Actual cue bid or bid of suit they've artificially indicated
- always at least two places to play
- maybe slam try later, but assumed not
1♦–(3♦)–X
4♦
choice of game, likely 3–3 majors
1♦–(3♥)–X
4♥
choice of game, e.g. 4♥ cue showing 3 card ♠ suit OR pick a minor ask4♠
at least 5♠s4NT
both minors, probably better ♦s5♣
both minors, better ♣s
By responder example:
1♦–(3♥)–X–(P)
4♣
opener's rebid4♥
unsure of minor4♠
3 card support for ♠5♣
5 good ♣s, medium ♦s5♦
5 very good ♦s
1♥ Opening
- a minimum 5♥ and 6♣/♦ may show a 5–5 hand bidding ♥ first
1♥
(10)11–15, 5 card Major(any)
interference1♠
4/5+ cards, maybe weak ♦ canapé1NT
non-forcing, ~5–112♣
GF natural (passed hand Reverse Drury raise)2♦
GF natural, usually 5 cards (passed hand 9–10)2♥
single raise, 3+ card support, ~(7)8–10 support points2♠
6+♠s, ~6–9 hcp, semi-weak, no ♥ fit2NT
limit+ raise3♣
6+ ♣s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♦
6+ ♦s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♥
Mixed raise ~7–9(10) support points, 7.5–9 losers, 4+ cards3♠
unknown singleton splinter, 10–13 hcp 3 cover cards3NT
splinter ♠, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards (passed hand - FJ mild slam interest)4♣
splinter ♣, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards (passed hand - FJ mild slam interest)4♦
splinter ♦, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards (passed hand - FJ mild slam interest)4♥
Obstructive bid, classic weak preempt, or fast arrival auction e.g. Kxxx/Axx/K/Qxxxx4♠
preempt4NT
RKB5♣♦
EKB
1♥–1♠
- maybe weak ♦ canapé, as well as any strength
- in-between hands uncertain of level likely to show 3 card ♥ support immediately
- 4 ♠s + 3+ card ♥ support is possible with GF values - it's easier to control the auction
1NT
11–13(14) NT interest, often ♠ singleton / 5–3–3–2 / semi-balanced with 4 card minor, values spread out2♣
Gazilli 14–15 6+ ♥s, 6 losers, OR good 14–15 6♥s + 3 card ♠ raise (NOT 3–5–4–1), OR good 14–15 mini-splinter, OR 14–15 (semi)balanced, OR natural ♣s, OR 14–15 ♦s2♦
natural, minimum ~11–13, often 5 cards or values very concentrated2♥
natural, 6+ ♥s, minimum ~11–13, could be 3♠s if hearts strong enough v.s. a singleton ♥ otherwise raise ♠2♠
natural, minimum ~11–13, 3 or 4 cards - will often raise with 3 card support + singleton2NT
6(7)–4 with a minor, maximum, 6 losers3♣
6–5+ (rebid 3♣ over 2♥ preference with 5–5), maximum3♦
6–5+ (rebid 3♦ over 2♥ preference with 5–5), maximum3♥
natural, invitational, AQJ10xxx+3♠
natural, invitational 4+ card support, 6 losers3NT
singleton splinter with ♠ support, maximum, often 6♥s + 4♠s4♣♦
void splinter with ♠ support4♥
to play, too strong to open 4♥ (e.g. 8 cards and 10 hcp)4♠
to play, probably 5–6 in the majors, or 4 card support and shapely (4–7)
1♥–1♠–1NT
1NT
11–13(14) NT interest, often ♠ singleton / 5–3–3–2 / semi-balanced with 4 card minor, values spread out2♣
NMF puppet to 2♦, often for ♦ escape otherwise invitational values2♦
complete puppetPass
weak ♦ canapé2♥
Hx or poor 3 card ♥ raise, ~11/12 hcp worse than 3♥, NF invitational.2NT
to play, not liking any 5–2 fit in ♥ or ♠3♣♦♥
GF, NT doubt
2♠
invitational 5♠, probably not Hx in ♥. Looking for any 3 card ♠ support.3♠
minimum, 3 card support4♠
extras, 3 card support
2NT
natural3♣
natural, 5+ ♣s, often 6 cards3♦
natural, 5+ ♦s, often 6 cards3♥
natural invite, ~12/13 hcp, usually 3 card support (direct 3♥ shows 4 card support)3♠
natural, invitational, 6 ♠s
2♦
NMF artificial GF with mostly natural continuations. Priority show 3 card ♠ support.2♥
any minimum except 3 card ♠ support2♠
3 card ♠ support
2♦
by PASSED hand, natural invitational, 4/5♠ and 5♦2♥
natural, NF, weak hand, 3 card support2♠
natural, NF, not suitable for immediate 2♠ weak jump shift (suit quality or ~Hx+ ♥ support)2NT
puppet, ♣ signoff or 4–4–4–1 GF3♣
completePass
signoffother
natural, baron 4 card suits
3new
5–5+ slam interest3♥
natural, invitational 4♥s, often with 6♠s (go via 2♣ with 3 card support)3♠
6+ suit, slam interest3NT
to play4♣
♣ auto-splinter for ♠, control bids or RKB follow4♦
♦ auto-splinter for ♠, control bids or RKB follow4♥
to play, probably 3 card support, testing ♠ suit4♠
to play4NT
NO, not used. Start with 2♦ first for more info.5♣♦♥
EKB Voidwood for ♠
1♥–1♠–2♣
- This Gazilli variant makes it impossible to play 2♣
- It's harder to invite with 5 ♠s, however opener should be unlikely to have anything that would
accept a 5 card ♠ invite unless holding the good 14–15 3 card ♠ raise
- If opener does have a natural ♣ hand it's harder to show a 5–4–4–0 type
2♣
Gazilli variant, one of:-
14–15 6+ ♥s, 6 losers-
14–15 3 card ♠ raise (not 3–5–4–1), 6 losers-
14–15 mini-splinter ♠ raise, 6 losers-
14–15 (semi)balanced catchall or ♠ singleton likes NT-
14–15 with ♦s-
natural with ♣s2♦
artificial, ~(10)11+, GF v.s. stronger 14–15 hands2♥
♣s, minimum2♠
natural, invitational2NT
natural, invitational, maybe 5♠s3♣
natural, invitational3♦
FSF3♥
3 card invitational, typically looking for a side suit shortage3♠
GF natural3NT
to play4♣
GF ♣ support4♦
Redwood for ♣s4♥♠
to play
2♠
14–15 3 card ♠ support2NT
semi-natural catchall3♣♦
♣s/♦s, extras3♥
14–15, 6+ ♥s, 6 losers3♠
14–15, 6+ ♥s AND 3 card ♠ support3NT
solid 6 card suit4♣♦
14–15 ♠ support, mini-splinter4♠
14–15 ♠ support mini-splinter, hiding shortage, limited honour controls
2♥
NF, ~6–(10), natural preference2♠
natural, 3 card support2NT
only 4 ♠s, NT suggestion3♣♦
5 card minor 3–5–(5–0)
3♣♦
14–15 ♠ support, mini-splinter3♥
14–15, 6+ ♥s AND 3 card ♠ support, maybe risky
2♠
6+ ♠s invitational, ~9–12 (not weak when opener could be showing a 2nd suit)3♣♦
escaping opposite minimum to ♣/♦ or ♥, slightly invitational (otherwise pass)3♠
really good ♠ (maybe facing a void)
2NT
NF, ~6–(10), 4+ ♣s3♣
sign off3♦
14–15 ♠ support, mini-splinter
3♣♦
NF, ~6–(10), 6+ card minor, canapé3♠
14–15 ♠ support, mini-splinter hand
3♥
14+ slam try, 3(+) card ♥ support3♠
natural, forcing, 6+ ♠s, good hand3NT
~12–17, good minor stops4♣♦
splinter, ♥ support, was trying ♠s4♥
to play, was testing ♠4♠
to play, was testing ♠, too strong for 4♠ response
1♥–1♠–2♦
- 11–13 hcp
- never 0–5–4–4 (bid 2♣ instead)
2♦
natural, NF, often 5 cards or values very concentrated2♥
natural, NF, preference, hoped for ♠ raise. Opener may continue with 6–4 / 5–52NT+
game try structure as 1♥–2♥ raise or 1♠–2♠ raise
2♠
6+ ♠s, invitational, ~9–12 (not weak after a second new suit)3♣
grope asking for ♣ stopper, or back to 5–2 ♥ fit3♦
NF, slight game hope
2NT
natural, invitational3♣
semi three-suiter, 0–5–5–3, game accepting values3♦
NF, weak 5–5 type3♥
forcing, good 6–4 type, short ♠s3♠
Hx in ♠ and lacking a ♣ stop, 5–2 fit suggestion3NT
to play4♠
extras with 3 card support
3♣
FSF GF, but by passed hand stop ask hand like AKxxx/Qx/Qxx/xxx3♦
natural, invitational, only 4+ ♠s guaranteed3♥
natural invite, probably 3 cards, trying for ♠ fit first3♠
natural, forcing, 6+ ♠s, good hand3NT
~12–17, good ♣ stops, 4 card ♠ or 5 cards and not 5–3 fit interested4♣
♣ splinter, ♦ slam try4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♥
to play, was testing ♠ OR slam try if opener showed extras4♠
to play, was testing ♠, too strong for 4♠ response4NT
No. Do not bid.
1♥–1♠–2♥
2♥
natural, 6+ ♥s, minimum ~11–13, could be 3♠s if hearts strong enough v.s. singleton otherwise raise ♠2♠
invitational, 6+ ♠s3♣♦
GF quasi-natural (passed hand NF 6 card minor canapé)3♥
natural, invitational (usually doubleton, maybe xxx and just < direct 2♥ raise)3♠
forcing4♣♦
splinter ♥ support4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB for ♥
1♥–1♠–2♠
2♠
natural, minimum ~11–13, 3 or 4 cards - will often raise with 3 card support + singleton2NT
natural, invitational3♣
♣ fragment3♦
♦ fragment3♥
3–6–2–2, letting responder find 6–2 fit instead of 4–3 ♠ fit3♠
minimum, sign off
3♣♦
invitational, often 4–6 with 4 card major + long minor3♥
6th ♥, only 3♠s, NF3♠
sign off
3♥
GF, double fit, possible slam interest3♠
4+ ♠s, waiting3NT
3 card ♠ support4♣♦♥
control bid, 4 card support4♠
minimum, 4 card support
3♠
natural, invitational3NT
suggests NT game instead of 4♠
3NT
suggests NT game alternative4♣
splinter, ♠ slam try4♦
splinter, ♠ slam try4♥
rare, let opener choose game, stay in ♥ if only 3 card ♠ support4♠
to play4NT
♠ RKB
1♥–1♠–2NT
Maximum, 6 loser, 6(7)–4 with a minor. The reasonable alternative is a good max 6/7–3 (3 card ♠ support).
2NT
14–15, 6 loser, 6+ ♥s with 4 card minor suit3♣
ask3♦
6–4, with ♦s3♥
6–4 with ♣s4♣♦
7–4 shape
3♦
GF, 5–5+ ♠s + ♦s3♥
sign off3♠
GF, 6+ good ♠s3NT
to play4♣
splinter for ♠4♦
splinter for ♠4♥
to play4♠
to play, sign off4NT
♥ RKB
1♥–1♠–3♣
3♣
6–5+, maximum (note: rebid 3♣ over 2♥ preference with 5–5)3♦
FSF, mainly to further define responder's hand, so often 3♥ next bid3♥
waiting3NT
too strong for direct 3NT over 3♣4♥
♥ slam try
3NT
♦ stoppers4♥
slam try4NT
invitational
4♣
6–6 hand type4♥
seven card good suit
3♠
6+ ♠s, forcing (opener shown extra values v.s. invite+)4♣
♣ RKB, special case
1♥–1♠–3♦
3♦
6–5+, maximum (note: rebid 3♦ over 2♥ preference with 5–5)3♠
forcing, maybe looking for ♣ stopper for 3NT, but maybe raised aswell with xx3NT
♣ stoppers4♥
slam try4NT
invitational
4♣
♥ slam try4♦
♦ RKB, special case
1♥–1♠–3♥
3♥
natural, invitational AQJ10xxx+3♠
forcing, 6+ ♠s, could even have 5/6 card minor3NT
natural4♣♦
control bid for ♠
4♣♦
forcing, control bids for ♥ slam try5♣♦
EKB Voidwood for ♥
1♥–1♠–3♠
3♠
natural, invitational 4 card support3NT
natural, good minor stops4♣♦
cue bid4♥
last train
1♥–1♠–3NT/4x
3NT
minor singleton splinter, ♠ support, good maximum, often 6–4–2–14♣
ask shortness asks follow.
4♣♦
*void* splinter with ♠ support4♥
to play, too strong to open 4♥ (e.g. 8 cards and 10 hcp)4♠
to play, probably 5–6 in the majors, or very distributional 4 card support (4–7)
1♥–2♥
Single raise, 3+ cards
- not worth a mixed raise, so 4 card support flat or ~4–6 hcp
- 3 cards raises ~(7)8–10 support points
- use the "semi" forcing 1NT for the 3 card game invite or weaker 3 card raises
- either 1NT or 2M could be gambling semi-preemptive extra weak on occasion
- opener needs a good hand to continue, usually 6 losers or better (note a 5 loser single suiter often opens 1♣)
2NT
general game try, not exposing opener3♣♦
natural trial bid, e.g. xx Qxxx KQxx xx, cooperating - unsure of game3♦
more trial bids if necessary
3♥
extra trump length game try, ~6 losers, e.g. x Qxxxxx KQx AQx4♥
acceptance values or trump support e.g. xx AJxx J10x J10xx
1♥–1NT
"Semi" forcing NT:
- ~5 hcp up to anything happy to play v.s opener's 11–12 hcp 5–3–3–2 / 4♠–5♥–2–2 (maybe 5–4–2–2 with a minor)
- may include 3 card limit raise hands ~(5)–7 support points or 3 card invitational ~11–12 support points
Responding:
- The 2♣ Gazilli variant response makes it impossible to play 2♣
- Gazilli also makes a 2♦ sign off over 2♣ impossible, though a 3♣/♦ signoff is available
- 2♣ response bids with natural ♣ suits have extras in shape or hcp, otherwise normally stick with 1NT
- 2♦ response is natural 4+ ♦s, 11–13
2♣
Gazilli variant, one of:-
14–15 6+ ♥s, 6 losers-
14–15 5–(3–3–2), tactical good 5 carder if 14–15 not opening 1♣-
14–15 artificial catchall, i.e. 4♠–5♥–(2–2/3–1)-
14–15 with ♦s-
natural ♣sPass
gamble, long weak ♣s2♦
artificial maximum, ~10/11 hcp2♥
♣s, artifical, minimum2NT
NF, natural invitational3♣
NF, natural invitational with support
2♠
natural 4♠s, maximum, less shape than direct 2♠ rebid2NT
semi-natural catchall3♣♦
♣s/♦s, extras3♥
14–15, 6+ ♥s, 6 losers3NT
solid 6 card suit
2♥
NF preference3♣♦
5–5, extras (maybe minimum 5–6), maybe risky
2♠
artificial, ~6–(10), both minors2NT
NF, ~6–(10), 4+ ♣s3♣♦
NF, ~6–(10), 6+ card minor, canapé3♥
natural, 3 card invite
2♦
natural, 4+ ♦s, 11–132♥
NF preference2NT+
game try structure as 1♥–2♥ raise or 1♠–2♠ raise
2NT
natural, invite, often stiff ♥3♣
natural, to play3♦
natural raise, NF3♥
3 card ♥ support, invitational3♠
splinter ♦ support3NT
to play, rare4♣
splinter for ♦, rare 7♦s4♦
♦ game invite4♥
no
2♥
natural, 6+ ♥s, minimum, ~11–13 not worth Gazilli 2♣2♠
artificial, shortness ask, game try2NT
natural, NF, invitational, aggressive3♣♦
sign off3♥
natural 3 card invite
2♠
reverse, maximum, at least 4–6 in the majorsPass
possible with 3 ♠s and weak hand2NT
GF, ask for more distribution info3♣♦
2/3 card minor fragment3♥
7th ♥ or 6 self-sufficient3♠
5 cards ♠ suit3NT
runnable ♥ suit
3♣♦♥
sign off3♠
natural, good 3 card ♠ fit, suggests weak minor stops3NT
to play4♣♦
3 card splinter, presumably 3–3–(6–1), max NT4♥♠
to play
2NT
14–15, 6 losers, 6+ ♥s with 4 card minor suit3♣
ask3♦
6–4, with ♦s3♥
6–4 with ♣s4♣♦
7–4 shape
3♦
NF natural3♥
sign off
3♣♦
NF, 6–5+, maximum3new
stop probe at first OR slam try big minor fit4new
shortage, minor slam try4m
natural, invitational, no 3NT hope4♥
to play
3♥
invitational ♥, often 7 cards3♠
♠ values, stop4♣♦
♥ slam try, long suit trick source, e.g. Kxx/Kx/xx/KQxxx hope ♣ honour support
3♠
5–6+ majors, NF, good non-minimum hand that's rare as not opening 1♣ e.g. KQJ10x/AQJxxx/x/x4♣♦
cue, double fit, slam try
3NT
7–5 ♥/♠, e.g. KQ10xx/AKJxxxx/-/x4♣♦
cue, double fit, slam try
4♣
7–5 ♥s + ♣s4♦
double fit RKB4♠
♥ RKB4NT
♦ cue, looking for ♠ void
4♦
7–5 ♥s + ♦s4♥
to play4♠
♥ RKB4NT
double fit RKB
4♥
very long ♥s, usual 8 (or 7 + shape), too strong for 4♥ opening
1♥–2♣
Natural 2/1 GF (Reverse Drury by passed hand).
- Rebid of the major after 2/1 GF is "Bergen" style shape showing 6+ card suit (not catchall minimum)
- often 5 card ♣ suit (maybe 4 card with 3–2–4–4)
- never any 4–3–3–3 nor 4–4–3–2 with 3 or 4 card support (use 2NT raise instead)
- Versus a passed hand, bids above 2♥ are GF
- 2♥ rebid versus a passed hand is never a maximum
- 3♥ rebid versus a passed hand has lower requirements, just a max and 6 card suit
By a passed hand 2♣ Reverse Drury shows a 9–10 hcp limit raise with 3+ card support.
Opener bids 2♥ (fast arrival) with a (sub)minimum hand.
2♦
second 4+ suit, any strength, may have 4 ♠s (4–5–4–0) or 6th ♥2♥
2 or 3 card support ♥ (3♥ bid otherwise), denies 4♠s3♥
set ♥ trumps, slam interest, 3NT bids are "serious" control prompts4♥
6 cards but not serious slam interestany
...
2♠
FSF3♠
4 card ♠ suit (4–5–4–0).3NT
natural4♣♦
cue, ♠ fit4♥
last train, ♠ fit
2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
forcing 6+ ♣s3♦
natural, forcing raise, ♦ minor contract interest3♥
picture raise, with outside controls hmmmmmm3♠
splinter for ♦ (with 6–5 ♣/♠, bid 2♠ then more ♠s instead)3NT
natural, ~12–15, stoppers in ♠s4♣
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control4♦
♦ RKB, special case, typically 1–1–5–6 obscurity4♥
picture raise, no outside controls4♠
void splinter for ♦s
2♥
6+ cards, any strength, maybe 5♠s2♠
natural, 4 card suit, general natural bids follow2NT
natural, something in ♦s3♣
3 or 4 card ♣ support3♦
FSF, could be natural if bid ♦s again3♥
7 ♥s3♠
maximum, 6–44♠
fast arrival, 6–4
2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
natural, forcing, normally 6+ ♣s, opener normally looks 3NT3♦
forcing, something in ♦s, only later 4♦ bid shows 5–6 in the minors3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise3♠
control bid3NT
serious control prompt (by either player)
3♠
splinter, only promises 3 card support, e.g. 1–3–3–6 / 1–3–4–5 (bid 2♠ then more ♠ with 6–5 shape)3NT
serious control prompt (by either player)
3NT
~12–154♣
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control4♦
splinter, delayed ♥ support, typically 3–3–1–64♥
picture raise, no outside controls
2♠
natural 4+ ♠, not 6♥s, any strength, not 4–5–4–0 (use 2♦)2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
natural, forcing normally 6+ ♣s3♦
FSF3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise3♠
4+ card ♠ support, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise3NT
~12–154♣
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control4♦
splinter, with ♠ support4♥
picture raise, no outside controls4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
2NT
catchall, stops not guaranteed, denies 4 ♠s, no ♣ raise interest3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise4♣
♣ RKB, special case, solid suit4♥
picture raise, no outside controls4NT
quantitative, directly or later on...5NT
quantitative, directly or later on...
3♣
natural 3+ cards, extras in shape or hcp, (best hands will splinter or bid 4♣ though)any
3NT contract directed, unless going past 3NT voluntarily3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise4♣
forcing, slam try4♥
picture raise, no outside controls
3♦
splinter for ♣s, good hcp (long ♦s start with 2♦)3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise4♥
picture raise, no outside controls
3♥
natural, maximum, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+, some side control(s)3♠
stop show OR advanced ♥ slam try4♣
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control4♦
♥ support, last train
3♠
splinter for ♣s3NT
solid ♥s + singleton ♣, something in other suits e.g. Jxx/AKQJxx/Qxx/x4♣
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
4♣
slam interest, typically 1–6–1–5, good high cards4♦
void splinter for ♣s4♥
long ♥s, picture rebid, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+4♠
void splinter for ♣s
1♥–2♦
Natural 2/1 GF, always 5+ cards.
2♥
6+ cards, any strength, maybe 5♠s2♠
natural, 4 card suit2NT
natural, something in ♣s3♣
FSF, could be natural if bid ♣s again3♦
3 or 4 card ♦ support3♥
7 ♥s3♠
maximum, 6–44♠
fast arrival, 6–4
2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp, denies 4th ♠3♣
natural, forcing, usually 5♣s (usually bid 2NT with only 4 card)3♦
natural, almost always 6th ♦3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise3♠
control bid3NT
Serious (by either player)
3♠
splinter raise of ♥s, only promises 3 card support, commonly 1–3–6–33NT
~12–154♣
delayed splinter, ♥ support, commonly 3–3–6–14♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control4♥
picture raise, no outside controls
2♠
natural 4+ ♠, not 6♥s, any strength2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
FSF, maybe long ♣s if bid again3♦
natural, 6th ♦3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise3♠
4 card ♠ support, any strength, but cannot bid concentrated values 4♠ raise3NT
~12–154♣
splinter raise of ♠s4♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control4♥
picture raise, no outside controls4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
2NT
catchall, stops not guaranteed, denies 4 ♠s, no ♦ raise interest 2–5–2–4 also possible, if have e.g. AQ or AJ in ♠s3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise4♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control4♥
picture raise, no outside controls
3♣
5+ ♣s3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise3♠
FSF4♣
♣ RKB, special case4♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control4♥
picture raise, no outside controls
3♦
natural raise 3+ cards, extrasany
3NT contracted directed, unless going past 3NT voluntarily3♥
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♥ picture raise4♦
forcing, slam try4♥
picture raise, no outside controls
3♥
natural, maximum, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+, some side control(s)3♠
stop show OR advanced ♥ slam try4♣
♥ support, slam try4♦
♦ RKB, special case, solid suit
3♠
splinter for ♦s3NT
solid ♥s + singleton ♦, something in other suits e.g. Jxx/AKQJxx/x/Qxx4♦
self-sufficient, max 1 loser, some outside control
4♣
splinter for ♦s4♦
slam interest, typically 1–6–5–1, good high cards4♥
long ♥s, picture rebid, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+4♠
void splinter for ♦s
1♥–2♠
6+♠s, ~(5)6–9 hcp, semi-weak, no ♥ fit
- Stronger than 1♦–2♥/♠ (there is less preemptive value)
- Opener normally passes without fit.
2NT
artificial shortage ask, invite plus3♣♦
6–5+ NF, long strong ♥s and minor3♥
NF, "better" suit than your ♠s3♠
invite4♣♦
splinter, looking for miracle slam , e.g. Kxxx/AKxxxx/x/Ax4♥♠
to play
1♥–2NT
invitational plus raise 3 (GF) or 4 card support.
- Normally invitational or slam try hands - game hands typically should end the auction quickly
- Natural systems with a standard "Jacoby 2NT" only have 4+ card support, but with limited openings responder can take control so we allow 3 cards game forcing
- 4–4–3–2 / 4–3–3–3 hands should show 3 card support immediately
- With game values, 3 card support, 5 card side suit and slam interest can bid 2/1 GF first instead of 2NT
- With 4 card support + 5 card side suit and no other side controls e.g. 5–4–2–2, can also bid 2/1 GF first then a
jump raise to 4M shows e.g AJxx support, AKJxx side suit and nothing outside - a picture raise
- Consider if a 4 card raise is suitable for a splinter, there are two ranges ~10–13 3+ cover cards and 13–16 4.5+ cover cards
- With game values and almost no chance of slam consider bidding game directly
- Roughly like Jacoby, responder basically drives the auction, 3 level bids to show singleton, can stop in 3M
- Control bids by responder, the 2NT bidder, will follow the agreed style, e.g. natural (perhaps fit finding) v.s honour
or shortage control
The response structure has just enough room for the 18 different hand types opener could show whilst
remaining below 4♥:
3♣
artificial, multi-meaning.(a)
minimum (semi)balanced no singleton (5332, 6322, 5422, 7222)(b)
minimum with singleton ♠, note can drive to game later if e.g. mid-range 10 cards in two suits(c)
maximum, no shortness 5–4–2–2 or 6–3–2–2/7–2–2–2 with strength in main suit(d)
void hand, any strength3♦
relay, better than 3♥ bid (fine in game v.s. minimum with ♠ singleton)3♥
minimum 5–3–3–2/5–4–2–2/6–3–2–2/7–2–2–2, NF3NT
to play, often 4–3–3–3 or 4–4–3–2 with strong doubleton4♣
control4♦
Last Train
3♠
♠ singleton minimum OR ♠ void any strength3NT
relay for shortage details, mild slam interest4♣
void ♠, maximum, e.g. -/AKxxx/Axxx/Kxxx4♦
void ♠, minimum, e.g. -/AKxxx/Axxx/Jxxx4♥
singleton ♠ minimum, e.g. x/AKxxx/Axxx/Jxx
4♣
control bids, not interested in ♠ shortage4♦
Last Train4♥
to play, no slam interest v.s. short ♠s
3NT
♣/♦ void, minimum4♣
♣ void, maximum4♦
♦ void, maximum4♥
(semi)balanced maximum but unsuitable for 3NT (e.g. strength in main suit)
3♥
to play v.s. any minimum, e.g. no good opposite min singleton ♠ or min (semi)balanced4♥
maximum any OR void minimum
3♦
minimum, singleton ♦3NT
to play, with ♦ stoppers4♦
Last Train
3♥
minimum, singleton ♣, NF3NT
to play, with ♣ stoppers4♦
Last Train
3♠
maximum, unknown singleton3NT
ask, slam interest normally4♣
♣ singleton4♦
♦ singleton4♥
♠ singleton
4♣
control4♦
Last Train4♠
Kickback RKB
3NT
maximum 6–3–2–2 / 5–4–2–2 (with good doubleton control), stops4♣♦
maximum, 5–5+ (4♥ showing ♠s which would be 5–6 shape or 7–4–1–1), responder should only care about the Ace in other suits4♥
maximum, 5♠–6♥ / 7♥–4♠–1–1 (bid ♠ first with equal length) OR versus passed hand fast arrival game bid
2NT Invite Plus Interference
1♥–(any)–2NT–(other)
X
penalty as they have no fit
1♥–2NT–(3CD)
Pass
minimum, NF3♥
minimum, shortage in their suitX
penalty, we raised a suit and only one of them came in late3NT
would establish forcing pass if they sacrificeCue
control - usually shortage, maximum
1♥–2NT–(3S)
Pass
minimum, but forcing expecting to penalise or bid onX
penalty, we raised a suit and only one of them came in late3NT
would establish forcing pass if they sacrifice
1♥–(2D)–2NT–(3D)
Pass
no shortage, no control
X = last train like extra value askX
extra values, singleton - SPECIAL non-penalty agreement3♥
minimum WITH ♦ control3NT
extra values, ♦ control4♦
void
1♥–(1S)–2NT–(3S)
Pass
no shortage, no control
X = last train like extra value askX
extra values, singleton/void - SPECIAL non-penalty agreement3NT
extra values, ♠ control4♥
minimum WITH ♠ control
1♥–2NT–(4D)
X
penalty, only one of them came in latePass
♦ control, but not penalty
Dbl = last train like extra strength ask slam try4♥
minimum no control, (assuming we will always play game or penalise now)
1♥–3♣♦
Limit jump shift, 6 card suit invitational, denying major support
- exact values depend on how easy it is for the suit to run in 3NT
- possibly used with weak long suits like x/x/xxx/KQJ10xxxx, bid suit again over 3NT
- bad long suits might bid 1NT, then signoff, or just pass
- solid suit has more risk of not making 3NT, but always drive to game with 7 cards solid and be more aggressive VUL IMPs
1♥–3♣
3♦
stopper, not natural necessarily, e.g. xxx/AJxxx/AQ/Axx wanting ♠ stop3♥
natural, long suit, NF invitational, responder can raise with Hx3♠
stopper, but 5–6/5–7 majors if pulls to 4♥ over from 3NT contract3NT
to play, stopped4♣
forcing, ♣ slam try4♦
splinter for ♣s4♥
to play4♠
splinter for ♣s
1♥–3♦
Similar to 1♥–3♣:
3♥
natural, long suit, NF invitational, responder can raise with Hx3♠
stopper, but 5–6/5–7 majors if pulls to 4♥ over from 3NT contract3NT
to play, stopped4♣
implied cue bid4♦
forcing, ♦ slam try4♥
to play4♠
splinter for ♦s
1♥–3♥
Mixed raise (weak limit raise) – ~7–9(10) support points, 7.5–9 losers, 4+ cards
- New suit by opener is extreme two suiter slam try.
- Almost always wrong to bid game with 5–3–3–2/5–4–2–2.
1♥–3♠
Unknown singleton splinter, 10–13 hcp, 7 loser hand or better.
Splinter bids typically have fairly evenly distributed strength amongst the side suits as otherwise a 2/1 GF bid
of the strong suit is often better (unless the strong suit is mostly self-sufficient).
Splinter bidder promises 3–4 cover cards outside of the shortness, e.g. Kxxx/Axxx/x/Axxx. After asking for the shortage
opener counts losers in other suits and with 6+ losers signs off, e.g. Jxx/KQxxx/KQJ/Qx easy to sign off v.s. ♦
singleton. 5 losers is hardest to judge as opener needs to make a slam try and let responder bid on with 4 cover cards
or a void. Responder can always bid on once with 5+ cover cards, though won't have that hand for a low tier 10–13 hcp
splinter. When responder bids on opener is ok with having 6 losers.
3NT
ask4♣
♣ singleton4♦
♦ singleton4♥
♠ singleton
1♥–3NT/4♣/4♦
Short ♠/♣/♦ splinter, upper-tier ~13–16 hcp, 4.5+ cover cards. Possibly > 16 hcp if judge best route,
but will be driving to five level at least. Possibly void and needs to decide if should drive
to five level.
4♠
Kickback RKB, maybe important to bid if 4♣/4♦ was doubled and 5♣/♦ raise impending
1♥ interference
1♥–(X)
XX
doubleton ♥, 6+ hcp, encourage 6 card suit rebid, often like standard 1NT bid1♠
natural, forcing (by unpassed hand), ignores the double - later system on if possible e.g:1NT
♣s, 6+ hcp, sound weak two or better 6+ cards OR 5 cards and will bid again, or lead directing 4+ suit with 3 card support2♣
♦s, 6+ hcp2♦
♥ transfer, 3 cards ~8–10 support points, worse than mixed raise2♥
natural, very weak, 3 cards ~4–7 useful support points2♠
weak jump shift2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣♠
fit jump3♦
1-under jump, mixed raise ~7–9 hcp, 4 card support3♥
preemptive, ~0–64♣
splinter4♦
fit jump (no 3D fit jump available)4♠
to play (not splinter beyond game)
Second round bids ignore the T/O X if advancer bids nothing, e.g. 1♥–(X)–1♠–(P)–1NT–(P)
then 2♣ is a puppet to 2♦ as per normal system over the 1NT rebid.
1♥–(1♠)
Dbl
negative (includes flat game force)(P)
no compete1NT
no ♠ stop guarantee, opener can cue later to check for one
(2♥♠)
competing raise or HCRX
takeout, minors tolerance, something extra2NT
natural, max, stopper3♣♦
natural, extras, shapely3♥
natural, extras, shapely
1NT
natural, ~7–10, ♠ stopper(2♣)
opponents compete(2♦♥♠)
opponents compete2NT
natural, maximum3♥
natural, maximum
2♣♦
natural, 5+ cards, F12♥
single raise, ~5–9 support points(P)
no compete2♠
extra values, lacking shape, defensive2NT
general game try as single raise3♣♦
trial bid, exposing opener3♥
extra trump length game try3♠
GF, ♠ shortage, offensive hand4♣♦
GF, shapely 2 suiter
(2♠)
competeDbl
extra values, lacking shape, defensive2NT
general game try as single raise3♣♦
trial bid, exposing opener3♥
weaker not invitational, reasonable suit/shape3♠
GF, ♠ shortage, offensive hand4♣♦
GF, shapely 2 suiter
2♠
♥ support, HCR(3S)
compete, handle as 2NT Invite Plus InterferencePass
no shortage, no controlX
extra values, singleton/void - SPECIAL non-penalty agreement3NT
extra values, ♠ control4♥
minimum with ♠ control
2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣
fit jump3♦
1-under jump, mixed raise ~7–9 hcp, 4 card support3♥
preemptive3♠
splinter, opponent's suit4♣
splinter4♦
fit jump (no 3D fit jump available)4♥
obstructive, undefined4♠
EKB
1♥–(1NT)
X
penalty2♣
~8–10 support points, good ♥ raise, worse than mixed raise2♦
competitive, 5–3 ♠s + ♥s typically, maybe 5–2 with Hx2♥
natural, ~4–72♠
competitive, natural2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣
preempt (no natural minor bid available at lower level)3♦
1-under jump, mixed raise ~7–9 hcp, 4 card support3♥
preemptive3♠
fit jump
1♥–(2♣)
X
negative2♦♠
natural, 5+ cards, F12♥
natural, less than mixed raise2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣
HCR3♦
1-under jump, mixed raise ~7–9 hcp, 4 card support3♥
preemptive3♠
fit jump4♣
splinter4♦
fit jump (no 3D fit jump available)
1♥–(2♦)
X
negative2♥
natural, less than mixed raise2♠
natural, 5+ cards, F12NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣
natural, 5+ cards, forcing3♦
HCR3♥
mixed raise (no room for 1-under jump and preempt raise), ~7–9 support points and 4+ cards3♠
fit jump4♣
fit jump (no 3C fit jump available)4♦
splinter
1♥–(2♥)
♠s + minorX
values, forcing to 3♥2♠
HCR, cue of major2NT
♣ transfer, competitive good weak two, or 5+ cards and can bid again3♣
♦ transfer3♦
mixed ♥ raise3♥
competitive, simple raise3♠
splinter4♣♦
♥ slam tries
1♥–(2♥)
♠s + ♣s known two suiter exampleX
values, forcing to 3♥2♠
HCR, high rank suit cue bid2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣
♦s unbid minor, GF 5+ suit, low rank cue bid3♦
competitive ♦s3♥
competitive, simple raise3♠
splinter
1♥–(2♠)
X
negative, maybe invite with 3 card support but risk more interference2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♥
NF, weaker roughly mixed raise3x
forcing4♣♦
♥ slam tries
1♥–(2NT)
presumably minorsX
values, forcing to 3♥ (note takeout is an alternative style)3♣
invitational plus, ♥ raise3♦
♠s, GF 5+ suit3♥
competitive, simple raise3♠
NF invitational4♣♦
♥ slam tries4♥♠
to play (passed hand - fit jump other major)
1♥–(3C)
Dbl
Relay Lebensohl Doubles3♦
puppetPass
competitive ♦s3♥
competitive ♥s, less than invite3♠
competitive ♠s3NT
4♠s + stop4♣
"normal" negative double, skipped 3NT though4♥
possibly a slam try
3♦
natural, forcing, later 4♦ rebid is invitational3♥
natural invite3♠
natural, forcing4♣
cue, slam try4♦
GF, excellent suit4♥
natural, slam try no ♣ control
1♥–(3D)
Dbl
Relay Lebensohl Doubles3♥
puppetPass
competitive ♥s3♠
competitive ♠s3NT
4♠s + stop4♣
competitive ♣s4♦
"normal" negative double, skipped 3NT though4♥
possibly a slam try
3♥
forcing3♠
natural invite4♣
GF, natural4♦
cue, slam try4♥
natural, slam try no ♦ control
1♥–(3S)
Dbl
primarily stop interested (Thrump), but maybe Relay Lebensohl Doubles3NT
stop4♣♦
competitive, to play4♥
competitive
4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
slam try (over a preempt)
1♥–(3x)
two suiter including suit bidlowCue
below 3♥, invitational in ♥shighCue
above 3♥, GF in ♥sX
penalty4♣♦
♥ slam tries
1♥–(4D)
X
negative4♥♠
natural4NT
RKB, not quantitative as forced to bid high
4th only overcalls:
1♥–1♠–(X)
Pass
doubleton ♠, nothing to bidXX
support, otherwise ignore the double
1♥–1NT–(X)
XX
artificial, good suit mild extras, 6 ♥s, not shapely enough for 3♥ bid
1♥–1NT–(2DS)
X
takeout, e.g. x/AKxxx/Axxx/Qxx of 2♠ overcall
responder passing, 4th hand reopens
1♥–(P)–P–(X)
XX
artificial, good suit mild extras, 6 ♥s, not shapely enough for 3♥ bid1NT
unspecified 4 card minor on way to 2♥ bid, e.g. xx/KQJ10xx/AJQx/x2x
lowest suit can play in
2♣♦
5 card suit normally
Responder can also re-open on their second bid, X takeout at the 2 level, but penalty
at the 3 level.
1♠ Opening
- a minimum 5♠ and 6♥ may show a 5–5 hand bidding ♠ first
1♠
(10)11–15, 5 card Major(any)
interference1NT
non-forcing, ~5–112♣
GF natural (passed hand Reverse Drury raise)2♦
GF natural usually 5 cards, maybe 2–4–4–3, (passed hand 9–10)2♥
GF natural always 5+ cards, (passed hand 9–10)2♠
single raise, 3+ card support, ~(7)8–10 support points2NT
limit+ raise3♣
6+ ♣s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♦
6+ ♦s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♥
6+ ♥s, invitational ~10–12, no major support3♠
Mixed raise ~7–9(10) support points, 7.5–9 losers, 4+ cards3NT
unknown singleton splinter, 10–13 hcp 3 cover cards, ~9–12 by passed hand4♣
splinter ♣ or ♥, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards (passed hand - FJ mild slam interest)4♦
splinter ♦, 13–16 hcp 4.5+ cover cards (passed hand - FJ mild slam interest)4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB5♣♦♥
EKB
1♠–1NT
"Semi" forcing NT:
- ~5 hcp up to anything happy to play v.s opener's 11–12 hcp 5–3–3–2 (maybe 5–4–2–2 with a minor) hand
- may include 3 card limit raise hands ~(5)–7 support points or 3 card invitational ~11–12 support points
Responding:
- The 2♣ Gazilli variant response makes it impossible to play 2♣
- Gazilli also makes a 2♦ sign off over 2♣ impossible, though a 3♣/♦ signoff is available
- 2♣ response bids with natural ♣ suits have extras in shape or hcp, otherwise normally stick with 1NT
- 2♦ response is natural 4+ ♦s, 11–13
2♣
Gazilli variant, one of:-
14–15 6+ ♠s, 6 losers-
14–15 5+♠s and 4+♥s, 6 losers-
13+ 5–(3–3–2), tactical good 5 carder if 14–15 not opening 1♣-
natural ♣s including 3 card ♥ support 5–3–1–4-
14–15 with ♦sPass
gamble, long weak ♣s2♦
artificial maximum, ~10/11 hcp2♥
14–15 5♠s/6♠s and 4 ♥s, 6 losers2♠
♣s, artificial, minimum2NT
NF, natural invitational3♣
NF, natural invitational with support
2NT
semi-natural catchall3♣♦
♣s/♦s, extras3♥
5–5 natural3♠
14–15, 6+ ♠s, 6 losers3NT
solid 6 card suit
2♥
natural, NF, ~6–(10), (4)5+ ♥s3♥
natural, invitational, likely 5+♠s and 4+♥s type hand
2♠
NF preference3♣♦♥
5–5, extras (maybe minimum 5–6), maybe risky
2NT
NF, ~6–(10), 4+ ♣s3♣♦
NF, ~6–(10), 6+ card minor, canapé3♥
invitational, 6+ suit (not quite worth 1S–3H)3♠
natural, 3 card invite
2♦
natural, 4+ ♦s, 11–13Pass
best contract guess, usually 5 cards, maybe 1–4–4–4 or even 1–4–3–52♥
natural, NF, usually 6 cards2♠
NF preference2NT+
game try structure as 1♥–2♥ raise or 1♠–2♠ raise
2NT
natural invite, 1–2 ♠s3♣
natural, NF, to play3♦
natural raise, NF3♥
splinter ♦ support3♠
3 card support, invitational3NT
to play4♣
splinter for ♦4♦
♦ game invite
2♥
natural, 4+ cards, minimum, ~11–13 not worth Gazilli 2♣, including 6–4 (usually show 4♥s before 6 ♠s)2♠
NF preference (2♠ and 3♥ normally should prefer 2♠ in case 6–4)2NT+
game try structure as 1♥–2♥ raise or 1♠–2♠ raise
2NT
natural, invitational3♣♦
natural, NF, to play3♥
natural, invitational3♠
natural, invitational, double fit majors (otherwise too weak for 3 level raise), can choose either game3NT
to play4♣♦
splinter ♥ support4♥
to play
2♠
natural, 6+ ♠s, minimum, ~11–13 not worth Gazilli 2♣2NT
invitational, implying singleton ♠3♣♦♥
natural, NF, to play3♠
invite, often doubleton
2NT
14–15, 6 losers, 6+ ♠s with 4 card minor suit3♣
ask3♦
6–4, with ♦s3♥
6–4 with ♣s4♣♦
7–4 shape
3♦
NF natural, long suit, still limited strength3♠
sign off
3♣♦
NF, 6–5+, maximum3new
stop probe at first OR slam try big minor fit3♥
natural, 6 cards, forcing4new
shortage, minor slam try4m
natural, invitational, no 3NT hope
3♥
invitational NF, good non-minimum hand, 6–5+4♣♦
slam try ♥, control bid
3♠
invitational ♠, often 7 cards4♣♦♥
♠ slam try, long suit trick source, e.g. Kxx/Kx/xx/KQxxx
3NT
7–5 ♠/♥ with more space to find a slam, but can also bid 4♥4♣♦
cue, double fit, slam try4♥♠
to play4NT
double fit RKB
4♣
7–5 ♠s + ♣s4♦
double fit RKB4♠
sign off4NT
♦ cue
4♦
7–5 ♠s + ♦s4♥
double fit RKB4♠
sign off4NT
♥ cue
4♥
7–5 ♠s + ♥s4♠
sign off4NT
double fit RKB
4♠
very long ♠s, usual 8 (or 7 + shape), too strong for 4♠ opening
1♠–2♣
2/1 GF (Reverse Drury by passed hand).
- Rebid of the major after 2/1 GF is "Bergen" style shape showing 6+ card suit (not catchall minimum)
- Only likely 4 carder hands are 2–3–4–4 / 2–4–3–4 (and 1–4–4–4 playing a non-forcing NT)
- never 4–3–3–3 / 4–4–3–2 with 3 or 4 card support (use 2NT raise instead)
- Versus a passed hand, bids above 2♠ are GF
- 2♠ rebid versus a passed hand is never a maximum
- 3♠ rebid versus a passed hand has lower requirements, just a max and 6 card suit
By a passed hand 2♣ Reverse Drury shows a 9–10 hcp limit raise with 3+ card support.
Opener bids 2♠ (fast arrival) with a (sub)minimum hand.
2♦
second 4+ suit, any strength, may have 4 ♥s 5–4–4–02♥
FSF, but maybe ♥s3♥
4 card support (do not bid 4♥ wasting space)
2♠
usually doubleton ♠, (3♠ bid with three cards), denies 4♥s3♠
set ♠ trumps, slam interest4♠
6 cards but not serious slam interestany
...
2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
forcing 6+ ♣s3♦
natural, forcing raise, ♦ minor contract interest3♥
splinter for ♦ (with 6–5 ♣/♥, bid 2♥ then more ♥s instead)3♠
picture raise, with outside controls3NT
natural, ~12–154♣
♣ RKB, special case, solid suit4♦
♦ RKB, special case, typically 1–1–5–6 obscurity4♥
void splinter for ♦s4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
2♥
natural, 4+ ♥s, any strength, maybe 6♠s2♠
natural, forcing, maybe only doubleton2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
natural, forcing, usually 6+ ♣s3♦
FSF, maybe natural ♦ suit shown later3♥
shows 4♥s, denying a 4♥ picture raise3♠
picture raise, with outside controls3NT
natural, ~12–154♣
♣ RKB, special case4♦
splinter, ♥ support4♥
picture raise, no outside controls4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
2♠
6+ cards, any strength, denies 4♥s (unlike 1♥–2♣–2♥)2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
natural, forcing, 6+ ♣s.3♦♥
not real suits, looking 3NT or 6–2 ♠ fit4♣
♣ RKB, special case
3♦
quasi-natural shape showing, likely 1–2–4–6 / 1–3–3–6 better ♦s. Will bid again if actually 6–5.3♥
quasi-natural shape showing, likely 1–4–2–6 / 1–3–3–6 better ♥s. Will bid again if actually 6–5.3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise3NT
12–15 natural4♣
♣ RKB, special case4♦
delayed splinter ♠ support, maybe only 3 card support4♥
delayed splinter ♠ support, maybe only 3 card support4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
2NT
catchall, stops not guaranteed, denies 4♥s, no ♣ raise interest3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise4♣
♣ RKB, special case, solid suit4♠
picture raise, no outside controls4NT
quantitative, directly or later on...5NT
quantitative, directly or later on...
3♣
natural, extras in shape or hcp3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise4♣
♣ RKB, special case4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
3♦
splinter raise of ♣s, extra values (6–5 type just bid 2♦ and rebid them again)3♥
splinter raise of ♣s, extra values3♠
natural, maximum, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+, some side control(s)4♣
♣ RKB, special case, solid suit
3NT
solid ♠s + singleton ♣, something in other suits e.g. AKQJxx/Jxx/Qxx/x4♣
♣ RKB, special case, solid suit
4♣
♣ RKB, special case, typically 6–1–1–54♦
void splinter ♣ support4♥
void splinter ♣ support4♠
long ♠s, picture rebid, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+
1♠–2♦
Game-forcing. Usually five cards. Could be 2–4–4–3.
2♥
natural, 4+ ♥s, any strength, shown unless terrible quality and 6–4/7–4 in the majors, similar to 1♠–2♣–2♥.2♠
natural, forcing, maybe only doubleton3♠
confirm ♠ suit3NT
serious control prompt
2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
FSF, later 4♣ bid would show 6–5 in minors3♦
natural, forcing, usually 6+ ♦s3♥
shows 4♥s, denying a 4♥ picture raise3NT
serious control prompt
3♠
picture raise, with outside controls3NT
serious control prompt
3NT
natural, ~12–154♣
splinter, ♥ support4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♥
picture raise, no outside controls4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
2♠
6+ cards, any strength2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
natural, forcing, usually 5♣s (usually bid 2NT with only 4 card)3♦
natural, almost always 6+ ♦s3♥
quasi-natural shape showing, likely 1–4–6–2 / 1–3–6–3. Will bid again if actually 6–5.3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise3NT
serious control prompt
3NT
12–15 natural4♣
delayed splinter ♠ support4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♥
delayed splinter ♠ support4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
2NT
catchall, stops not guaranteed, denies 4♥s3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♠
picture raise, no outside controls4NT
quantitative, directly or later on...
3♣
5+ ♣s3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise4♣
♣ RKB, special case4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
3♦
natural raise, extras in shape or hcp3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise4♣
♦ support, cue bid4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
3♥
splinter raise of ♦s, extra values3♠
natural, maximum, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+, some side control(s)4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♥
last train
3NT
solid ♠s + singleton ♦, something in other suits e.g. AKQJxx/Jxx/Qxx/x4♣
splinter for ♦4♦
♦ RKB, special case, typically 6–1–5–14♥
void splinter for ♦4♠
long ♠s, picture rebid, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+
1♠–2♥
2/1 GF, always 5+ cards, 9–10 by passed hand
2♠
6+ cards, any strength2NT
natural, forcing ~16+ hcp3♣
natural, usually 5 ♣s (would bid 2NT if possible if only 4 cards)3♦
natural, usually 5 ♦s3♥
natural, forcing 6+ ♥s3♠
natural3NT
to play4♣♦
cue, ♠s agreed4NT
♥ RKB
4♠
♥ RKB
3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise3NT
serious control prompt
3NT
12–15 natural4♣
delayed splinter for ♠4♦
delayed splinter for ♠4♥
signoff, no slam interest even v.s. Hx/xxx, barely too strong for 1♠–4♥4♠
picture raise, no outside controls4NT
♠ RKB
2NT
catchall, stops not guaranteed3♥
natural, forcing 6+ ♥s3♠
forcing, ambiguous strength unsuitable for 4♠ picture raise4♥
to play4♠
picture raise, no outside controls4NT
quantitative, directly or later on...
3♣
5+ ♣s4♣
♣ RKB, special case4♦
splinter, ♣ support4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
3♦
5+ ♦s4♣
♦ slam try, cue bid4♦
♦ RKB, special case4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
3♥
raise, non-specific unknown strength, cannot play 3NT anymore3♠
confirm double fit3NT
serious control prompt (by either bidder), does not deny a ♠ control card4♣♦
control bid, could still have something in ♠ (Ax, Kx, Qx)4♠
picture raise, no outside controls
3♠
natural, maximum, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+, some side control(s)3NT
solid ♠s + singleton ♥, something in other suits e.g. AKQJxx/x/Jxx/Qxx4♣
splinter for ♥4♦
splinter for ♥4♥
picture raise, 5–4–2–2 without outside controls4♠
long ♠s, picture rebid, max 1 loser e.g. KQJ10xx+
1♠–2♠
Single raise, 3+ cards
- not worth a mixed raise, so 4 card support flat or ~4–6 hcp
- 3 cards raises ~(7)8–10 support points
- use the "semi" forcing 1NT for the 3 card game invite or weaker 3 card raises
- either 1NT or 2M could be gambling semi-preemptive extra weak on occasion
- opener needs a good hand to continue, usually 6 losers or better (note a 5 loser single suiter often opens 1♣)
2NT
general game try, not exposing opener3♣♦♥
natural trial bid, e.g. Qxxx KQxx xx xxx, cooperating - unsure of game3x
more trial bids if necessary
3♠
sign off4♠
accept
3♠
extra trump length game try, ~6 losers, e.g. Qxxxxx KQx AQx x4♠
acceptance values or trump support e.g. AJxx xx J10x J10xx
1♠–2NT
invitational plus raise 3 (GF) or 4 card support.
- Normally invitational or slam try hands - game hands typically should end the auction quickly
- With game values, 3 card support, 5 card side suit and slam interest can bid 2/1 GF first instead of 2NT
- With 4 card support + 5 card side suit and no other side controls e.g. 5–4–2–2, can also bid 2/1 GF first then a
jump raise to 4M shows e.g AJxx support, AKJxx side suit and nothing outside
- Consider if a 4 card raise is suitable for a splinter, there are two ranges ~10–13 3–4 cover cards and 13–16 4.5+ cover cards
- Roughly like Jacoby, responder basically drives the auction, 3 level bids to show singleton, can stop in 3M
- Control bids by responder, the 2NT bidder, will follow the agreed style, e.g. natural (perhaps fit finding) v.s honour
or shortage control
3♣
artificial, multi-meaning.(a)
minimum (semi)balanced no singleton (5332, 6322, 5422, 7222)(b)
minimum with singleton ♥, note can drive to game later if e.g. mid-range 10 cards in two suits(c)
maximum, no shortness 5–4–2–2 or 6–3–2–2/7–2–2–2 with strength in main suit(d)
void hand, any strength3♦
relay, better than 3♠ bid (fine in game v.s. minimum with ♥ singleton)3♥
♥ singleton minimum OR void any strength3♠
NF, no game interest v.s. minimum with singleton ♥3NT
relay for shortage details, slam interest4♣
maximum, ♥ void, e.g. AKxxx/-/Axxx/Kxxx4♦
minimum, ♥ void, e.g. AKxxx/-/Axxx/Jxxx4♥
minimum, ♥ singleton, but some shape so would accept game4♠
dead minimum, ♥ singleton
4♣♦
control bids, not interested in ♥ shortage4♥
Last Train4♠
to play, no slam interest v.s. short ♥s
3♠
minimum 5–3–3–2/5–4–2–2/6–3–2–2/7–2–2–2, NF3NT
to play, often 4–3–3–3 or 4–4–3–2 with strong doubleton4♣♦
control4♥
Last Train
3NT
♣/♦ void, minimum4♣
♣ void, maximum4♦
♦ void, maximum4♠
(semi)balanced maximum but unsuitable for 3NT
3♠
to play v.s. any minimum, e.g. no good opposite min singleton ♥ or min (semi)balanced4♠
maximum any OR void minimum
3♦
minimum, singleton ♦3♥
control bid3NT
to play, with ♦ stoppers4♥
Last Train
3♥
minimum, singleton ♣3NT
to play, with ♣ stoppers4♥
Last Train
3♠
maximum, unknown singleton.3NT
ask, slam interest normally4♣
♣ singleton maximum4♦
♦ singleton maximum4♥
♥ singleton maximum
4♣♦
control4♥
Last Train4♠
to play, no slam interest4NT
RKB
3NT
maximum 6–3–2–2 / 5–4–2–2 (with good doubleton control), stops4♣♦
control4♥
Last Train4NT
RKB
4♣♦♥
maximum, 5–5+, responder should only care about the Ace in other suits
Interference
See 1♥–2NT Invite Plus Interference examples
1♠–3♣♦
Limit jump shift, 6 card suit invitational, denying major support
- exact values depend on how easy it is for the suit to run in 3NT
- possibly used with weak long suits like x/x/xxx/KQJ10xxxx, bid suit again over 3NT
- bad long suits might bid 1NT, then signoff, or just pass
- solid suit has more risk of not making 3NT, but always drive to game with 7 cards solid and be more aggressive VUL IMPs
1♠–3♣
3♦
stopper, not natural necessarily, e.g. AJxxx/xxx/AQ/Axx wanting ♥ stop3♥
stopper, quasi-natural, responder can raise without 4th suit stopper and 3/4 card support3♠
natural, long suit, NF invitational, responder can raise with Hx3NT
to play, stopped4♣
forcing, ♣ slam try4♦
splinter for ♣s4♥
splinter for ♣s4♠
to play
1♠–3♦
Similar to 1♥–3♣:
3♥
stopper, quasi-natural, responder can raise without 4th suit stopper and 3/4 card support3♠
natural, long suit, NF invitational, responder can raise with Hx3NT
to play, stopped4♣
implied cue bid4♦
forcing, ♦ slam try4♥
splinter for ♦s4♠
to play
1♠–3♥
Not as much suit quality required as the minor bids - directed to a major game instead of NT
3♠
natural, long suit, NF invitational, responder can raise with Hx3NT
to play, stopped4♣
implied cue bid4♦
implied cue bid4♥♠
to play
1♠–3♠
Mixed raise (weak limit raise) – ~7–9(10) support points, 7.5–9 losers, 4+ cards
- New suit by opener is extreme two suiter slam try.
- Almost always wrong to bid game with 5–3–3–2/5–4–2–2.
1♠–3NT
Unknown singleton splinter, 10–13 hcp, 3–4 cover cards outside of shortage
Splinter bids typically have fairly evenly distributed strength amongst the side suits as otherwise a 2/1 GF bid
of the strong suit is often better (unless the strong suit is mostly self-sufficient).
4♣
ask4♦
♦ shortage4♥
♥ shortage4♠
♣ shortage
1♠–4♣
Maximum splinter in ♣ or ♥, upper-tier ~13–16 hcp, 4.5+ cover cards.
(Fit jump by passed hand)
4♦
ask4♥
♥4♠
♣4NT+
RKB response (1430...) with ♣ shortage
1♠–4♦
Maximum splinter, short ♦, upper-tier ~13–16 hcp, 4.5+ cover cards.
(Fit jump by passed hand)
1♠–4♥/4♠
To play, always. By a passed hand 4♥ also implies some sort of ♠ fit, e.g Kxxxx/QJ10xxx/x/x
1♠–4NT
Normal Blackwood. Responder can bid their own suit at 5/6/7 level after opener shows aces.
1♠ interference
Similar to 1♥ interference.
1♠–(X)
XX
doubleton ♠, 6+ hcp, encourage 6 card suit rebid, often like standard 1NT bid1NT
♣s, 6+ hcp, sound weak two or better 6+ cards OR 5 cards and will bid again, or lead directing 4+ suit with 3 card support2♣
♦s, 6+ hcp2♦
♥s, 6+ hcp2♥
♠ transfer, 3 cards ~8–10 support points, worse than mixed raise2♠
natural, very weak, 3 cards ~4–7 useful support points2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣♦
fit jump3♥
1-under jump, mixed raise ~7–9 hcp, 4 card support3♠
preemptive4♣♦
splinter4♥
to play (no fit jumps at game level)
1♠–(1NT)
X
penalty2♣
~8–10 support points, 3 cards, good ♠ raise, worse than mixed raise2♦
competitive, 5–3 ♥s + ♠s typically, maybe 5–2 with Hx2♥
natural, NF competitive2♠
natural, ~4–7, 3 cards2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣♦
preempt (no natural minor bid available at lower level)3♥
1-under jump, mixed raise ~7–9 hcp, 4 card support3♠
preemptive
1♠–(2♣)
X
negative2♦♥
natural, 5+ cards, F12♠
natural, ~6–10, 3 cards, less than mixed raise2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣
HCR3♦
fit jump3♥
1-under jump, mixed raise ~7–9 hcp, 4 card support3♠
preemptive4♣♦
splinter4♥
to play (no fit jumps at game level)
1♠–(2♦)
X
negative2♥
natural, 5+ cards, F12♠
natural, ~6–10, 3 cards, less than mixed raise2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣
natural, forcing3♦
HCR3♥
1-under jump, mixed raise ~7–9 hcp, 4 card support3♠
preemptive4♣
fit jump (no 3C fit jump available)4♦
splinter4♥
to play (no fit jumps at game level)
1♠–(2♥)
X
negative2♠
natural, ~6–10, 3 cards, less than mixed raise(P)
no compete2NT
general game try as single raise3♠
extra trump length game try
(3H)
competeDbl
extra values (competitive, invite)3NT
natural, maximum, stop4♣♦
natural, maximum, implies offensive shapely hand maybe 5♠ suitable4♥
GF, ♥ shortage, good suit/shape4♠
maximum, good suit/shape, no ♥ shortage
2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣♦
natural, forcing3♥
HCR3♠
mixed raise (no room for 1-under jump and preempt raise), ~7–9 support points and 4+ cards4♣♦
fit jump (no 3CD fit jump available)4♥
splinter
1♠–(2♠)
♥s + minorX
values, forcing to 3♠2NT
♣ transfer, competitive good weak two, or 5+ cards and can bid again3♣
♦ transfer3♦
HCR3♥
mixed ♠ raise3♠
competitive, simple raise4♣♦
♠ slam tries4♥
splinter (of their known suit), likely void with slam tries available
1♠–(2♠)
♥s + ♣s known two suiter exampleX
values, forcing to 3♠2NT
invitational plus support, 2NT system on3♣
♦s unbid minor, GF 5+ suit, low rank cue bid3♦
competitive ♦s3♥
HCR, high rank suit cue bid3♠
competitive, simple raise
1♠–(2NT)
presumably minorsX
values, forcing to 3♠ (note takeout as other alternative style)3♣
♥s, GF 5+ suit3♦
invitational plus, ♠ raise3♥
natural, NF3♠
competitive, simple raise4♣♦
♠ slam tries4♥♠
to play (passed hand - fit jump other major)
1♠–(3C)
Dbl
Relay Lebensohl Doubles3♦
puppetPass
competitive ♦s3♥
competitive ♥s3♠
competitive raise, less than invite3NT
4♥s + stop4♣
"normal" negative double, skipped 3NT though4♠
possibly a slam try
3♦
natural, forcing, later 4♦ rebid is invitational3♥
natural, forcing3♠
natural invite4♣
cue, slam try4♦
GF, excellent suit4♠
natural, slam try no ♣ control
1♠–(3D)
Dbl
Relay Lebensohl Doubles3♥
puppetPass
competitive ♥s3♠
competitive ♠s3NT
4♠s + stop4♣
competitive ♣s4♦
"normal" negative double, skipped 3NT though4♠
possibly a slam try
3♥
natural, forcing3♠
natural invite4♣
GF, natural4♦
cue, slam try4♠
natural, slam try no ♦ control
1♠–(3H)
Dbl
Relay Lebensohl Doubles3♥
puppetPass
competitive ♥s3♠
competitive ♠s3NT
4♠s + stop4♣
competitive ♣s4♦
"normal" negative double, skipped 3NT though4♠
possibly a slam try
3♠
natural invite4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
cue, slam try4♠
natural, slam try no ♥ control
1♠–(3x)
two suiter including suit bidlowCue
below 3♠, invitational in ♠shighCue
above 3♠, GF in ♠sX
penalty4♣♦
♠ slam tries
1♠–(4D)
X
negative4♥♠
natural4NT
RKB, not quantitative as forced to bid high
1♠–(4H)
X
penalty (generally negative X to 4♥ but here ♠s already bid)4♠
natural4NT
RKB, not quantitative as forced to bid high
responder passing, 4th hand reopens
1♠–(P)–P–(X)
XX
artificial, good suit mild extras, 6 ♠s, not shapely enough for 3♠ bid1NT
unspecified 4 card side suit on way to 2♠ bid, e.g. KQJ10xx/xx/AJQx/x2x
lowest suit can play in2♥
showing 4 card ♥ suit, 6 ♠s
2♣♦
5 card suit normally
Responder can also re-open on their second bid, X takeout at the 2 level, but penalty
at the 3 level.
NT Ranges and Scheme Situations
- 1NT = 16–18 hcp, maybe 5 card major or 5–4–2–2 long ♣/♦.
- 2NT = 19–20 hcp, maybe 5 card major or 5–4–2–2 long ♣/♦.
- (1x)–P–(P)–1NT = ~11–15 (maybe 16 over 1♥/♠) hcp, balancing/protective
- (1x)–P–(P)–2NT = 19–21 hcp, balancing/protective
- (1x)–1NT = 15–18
- (1x)–X then free NT bid = 18–20 hcp
- (1x)–P–(P)–X balancing then free NT bid = ~16–18 hcp
- (1x)–X then free jump NT bid = 21+ hcp
- (2x)–2NT = 16-18
Blanket approaches to bidding when natural 1NT and 2NT bids made by our side.
1NT Opening
Opening:
- 15/18 hcp hands can be promoted to 1NT/2NT.
- 16/19 hcp hands never demoted.
- 5–4–2–2 with a long minor can be opened with 1NT
- 6–3–2–2 with a long minor can also by judgement open 1NT
- rare 4–4–4–1 singleton A/K
Responding:
- balanced invite: use 2♠ range ask
- 5–4 majors weak: pass or transfer signoff
- weakish 3 suiter short ♣s: 2♣ possibly, but will play in 3♥♠ if opener has both majors
- 4–4/5–4 majors invitational or GF: bid 2♣ and then over 2♦ bid 2♥/2♠ or 3♥/3♠ Smolen
- 5♥s invitational: transfer then artifical 2♠
- 5♠s invitational: 2♣ Stayman then 2♠
- 5–5 majors invitational: ♠ transfer then bid 3♥
- 5–5 majors GF or slam try: 2♣ then artificial 4♣/4♦ over a 2♦ response
- 6–4 majors GF: stayman then bid 4M (no transfer option) or just show the 6 card major
- 6–4 majors slam try: usually just show 6 card major otherwise no way to show 6 cards
- 4–3–3–3 hands with 4 card ♥/♠ often do better in NT
- 5–3–3–2 with major can use stayman then bid NT or Smolen, maybe only bidding 4♥♠ with a 9 card fit
- 5 card minor + 3 card major 5–3–3–2 slam try: puppet stayman
- 5–4–(3–1) GF minor hands: 3♦♥ responses allow stop investigation for 3NT
- 5–4–(3–1) slam try minor hands: Stayman (NOT puppet stayman!)
- one 4 card major invitational: Stayman
- one 4 card major GF OR one/two 3 card major(s) when GF AND NOT 5–4–(3–1) minor hands (see 3DH): Puppet Stayman
- minor single suiter, any strength: 2♠/2NT ♣/♦ transfers
- 6 card minor + 3 card major: choice of 2♠/2NT ♣/♦ transfers or Puppet Stayman as guessed appropriate
- major + minor GF or slam try: start with major transfer (5+ cards) or stayman (4 cards), usually only slam try hands if show the minor
- major + minor invite: can only show the major
- minors GF plus hands only: 3♠
- major game or slightly preemptive: 4♣♦ showing ♥/♠ with room to show a super fit (super fit is lots of Aces/Kings in side suits and maybe lower honours in partner's suit, or a picture raise in some situations)
- major slam try no void: 3♦♥ transfers
- major slam try with void: 2♦♥ transfers
- Note 4♥♠ natural bids are not used in principle - 3♦♥ can be major slam trys and 4♣♦ transfers are used to play
1NT
(any)
1NT interference2♣
Stayman, promissory, maybe weakish short ♣ 3 suiter2♦
no major2♥
4 or 5 ♥s, not ♠s2♠
4 or 5 ♠s, not ♥s2NT
4–4 majors, minimum3♣
4–4 majors, maximum
2♦
transfer to ♥, 5+ cards2♥
transfer to ♠, 5+ cards2♠
range ask OR transfer to ♣, 6+ cards, weak or invite plus2NT
transfer to ♦, 6+ cards, weak or invite plus3♣
Puppet Stayman, 3+ card major(s), maybe one 4 card major, GF+3♦
either ♥ slam try transfer, no void OR GF ♥ shortage with 5–4/4–5 minors3♥
either ♠ slam try transfer, no void OR GF ♠ shortage with 5–4/4–5 minors3♠
minors 5–5, GF and maybe slam try3NT
to play4♣♦
♥/♠ transfer, not slam try values4NT
quantitative5♠
invitation to 6NT, asks specifically for any 5 card suit
1NT–2♣
Stayman, promissory, maybe weakish 4–4–4–1♣
- Roughly invitational plus UNLESS weak 3 suiter with short ♣s
- Always some major: one 4 card invitational exactly or 4–4 both majors invitational plus
- With both majors then the invite can be marginal, e.g. 6+ hcp
- NOT 5–5 majors precisely invitational - will transfer to ♠s and then bid ♥s
- GF and slam try 5–4 (Smolen) / 5–5 major hands do start with Stayman
2♦
no major2♥
4 or 5 ♥s, not ♠s2♠
4 or 5 ♠s, not ♥s2NT
4–4 majors, minimum3♣
4–4 majors, maximum
1NT–2♣–2♦
2♦
no major2♥
invitational, 5 ♥s (also 4 ♠s, maybe hidden 5–5 weak invite not worth transfer)2♠
relay, ♥ support2NT
minimum, most hands3♣♦
minimum, fragment with honour in 3 card suit, 4–5–(3–1)3♥
minimum, 5–5 majors, ~4–5 hcp4♥
game accept
2NT
invitational, natural3♠
minimum, 5–5 majors, ~4–5 hcp
3♣♦
6 card suit, rare3♥
natural, invite3NT
opener believes can be made4♥
natural, to play
2♠
invitational, 5 ♠s (maybe 4 ♥s)Pass
minimum, often 2 ♠s2NT
maximum, usually no support3♣♦
NF, 5–53♥
5♠s and 4♥s, good spades3♠
6♠s and 4♥s, needs fit, unusual bid
3♣
maximum, relay asking for shortness info, capatin role switch3♦
other major singleton/doubleton - some doubleton hands considering suit contracts3♥
ask, lacking good other major stopper, no 3NT interest opposite xx other major3♠
doubleton ♠ support3NT
4+ ♣s, ♥ singleton4♣
4+ ♦s, ♥ singleton4♠
good ♠s, so play 5–2
3♠
asking for H/Hx other major "stop"3NT
to play4♣♦
good hand, 5–4 minors4♠
to play
3♥
no shortage (maybe pretend singleton honour is semi-balanced)3♠
unsure, NF, could play 3NT or 4♠Pass
nothing extra3NT
5–3–3–2, honour in short suit4♠
something extra
3♠
singleton ♣3NT
singleton ♦
3♠
natural, invite4♠
natural, to play
2NT
invitational3♣♦
likely 5–4 minors, concern about combined weak majors
3♣
artificial relay, minor(s) SLAM try, likely (semi)balanced hands3♦
4–4 or 5–4 minors3♥
relay, ask3♠
4–4 minors, opener can pass over 3NT3NT
NF, can bid on with extras or fitting honours
3NT
5♣s, 4♦s, forcing (like Lissabon so can cue bid after setting)4♣
5♦s, 4♣s, forcing
3♠
4♣s, but weak suit - Qxxx or worse3NT
4♦s, but weak suit - Qxxx or worse, NF4♣♦
sets trumps
3♥
5♣s (Lissabon)3♠
5♦s3NT
limited4om
natural slam try, other minor
3♠
5♦s (Lissabon)3NT
limited4om
natural slam try, other minor
3NT
often 4–3–3–34♣♦
5 card minor4♥♠
4–4, better ♣s/♦s, (or 5–4 minors to play in openers 4 card minor)
4♣
5♣s, 3/4 honours4♦
5♦s, 3/4 honours, no ♣ fit
3♦
artificial MAJOR SHORTAGE, usually 4–5 major/minor or 4–4–4–13♥
ask, maybe poor stopper(s) looking for best contract, may play 4♣♦3♠
short ♠s3NT
(or pass), suggest to play4♣♦
NF4♥♠
♣s/♦s 4+ cards, good fit4♠
♦s, other minor5♣
5 ♣s5♦
5♦s, only 2 card ♣ suit
4NT
optional RKB
4NT
pick a minor 4–4, ok fit5♣♦
natural 5 cards, nothing special otherwise
3NT
short ♥s, minimum4♣♦
NF4♥♠
♣s/♦s 4+ cards, good fit4♠
♦s, other minor5♣
5 ♣s5♦
5♦s, only 2 card ♣ suit
4NT
optional RKB
4NT
pick a minor 4–4, ok fit5♣♦
natural 5 cards, nothing special otherwise
4♣♦
5 card ♣/♦, shorts ♥s, medium/maximum4♥
4–1–4–4, short ♥s
3♠
good for both 3NT and minor contract (3–3+ minors), but NO 5 card minor3NT
no interest in minor, ok stoppers4♣♦
5 card minor, no interest in 3NT, GF
3♥
GF 4 ♥s and 5 ♠s (Smolen), or bidding on with 4–63♠
support3NT
natural4♥
retransfercue
6 ♠s and slam interest
4♣♦♥
super max, cue, ♠ support4♠
fast arrival, i.e. minimum or 4–3–3–3
3♠
GF 4 ♠s and 5 ♥s (Smolen), or bidding on with 4–63NT
natural4♦
retransfercue
6 ♥s and slam interest
4♣
maximum, ♥ support4♥
normal bid, support, minimum or 4–3–3–3
3NT
to play4♣
majors 5–5 slam try4♦
negative4♥♠
accept, set trumps, forcing
4♦
majors 5–5, GF or slam try depending on suit preferred4♥♠
to play, probably 6–4 majors4NT
quantitative5♠
onway to 6NT, asks for any 5 card suit
1NT–2♣–2♥
2♥
4 or 5 ♥s, not ♠s2♠
invitational, 5♠s (transfer then 2NT is GF)Pass
minimum, often 2 ♠s2NT
maximum, usually without support3♣
maximum, relay, shortness ask3♥
maximum, 5♥s and Hx in spades3♠
natural raise4♠
natural raise
2NT
invitational, natural3♣
GF, 4+ ♣s, unbalanced or a slam try3♦
(quasi)natural, weak ♠s3♥
quasi-natural, Hx+, often 3 card support3♠
stop ask, 4th suit3NT
limited, ♠ stopper4♣
5♣s, slam try with ♠ control4♦
4–1–4–4, slam try with ♠ control4♥♠
♣s/♦s (Lissabon)4NT
natural
3♥
5♥s and some ♠ values, maybe weak ♦s3♠
(quasi)natural, asking for ♦ stop
3♠
quasi-natural, 4♥s and weak ♦s3NT
limited, stoppers in unbid suits
3♦
GF, 4+ ♦s, unbalanced or a slam try3♥
♣ stopper, with either 5♥s or 4♥s + weak ♠s3♠
stop ask, 4th suit3NT
stop + 5♥s (otherwise usually bid 3NT directly over 3♦)4♣
artificial, 5♥s + 3♦s, may have ♠ control4♥
5♥s, no stopper
3♠
quasi-natural, weak ♣s, 4 or 5 ♥s4♣
artificial (opposite weak ♣s), waiting bid (e.g. 3♥s or 5 good ♦s)
3NT
limited, stoppers in unbid suits
3♥
invitational3♠
asks for 5 ♥s, either slam try or exactly 3 ♥s, maybe RKB prelude3NT
4♥s4♣♦
cue bid, 5♥s4♥
5♥s, minimum or occasionally 4 good ♥s with a weak side suit
4♣♦
singleton/void + ♥ support4NT
quantitative
1NT–2♣–2♠
2♠
4 or 5 ♠s, not ♥s2NT
invitational3♣
GF with 4+ ♣s, unbalanced or a slam try3♦
either 4♦s OR quasi natural with weakness in ♥s3♥
4th suit forcing3♠
partial ♥ stop (would have bid 3♠ already with ♠ support)3NT
natural, 4♦s and ♥ stop
3♠
quasi-natural, Hx+, often 3 card support3NT
limited hand, ♥ stopper4♣♦
5♣s with a ♥ control4♦
1–4–4–4, slam try with ♥ control4♥♠
♣s/♦s (Lissabon)4NT
natural
3♥
quasi-natural with ♦ weakness3♠
5♠s, no weakness3NT
natural, stoppers in unbid suits
3♦
GF with 4+ ♦s, unbalanced or a slam try3♥
quasi-natural stopper, either 5♠s or 4♠s + weak ♣s3♠
ambiguous, also weak ♣s or 3 card ♠ support
3♠
quasi-natural, weak ♥s and 4/5♠s3NT
♥ stop4♣
♦ or ♠ options, slam interest
3NT
limited, stopper in both unbid suits4♣
5♦s + 4♣s, natural slam invitational4♦
5♦s, natural slam invitational
4x
cue, extras, good hand with ♦ support4♦
normal hand, ♦ support
3♥
asks for 5 ♠s, either slam try or exactly 3 ♠s, maybe RKB prelude3♠
4 good ♠s, some weak suit often ♥s3NT
normal bid with 4♠s4♣♦♥
cue bid, 5♠s4♠
5♠s, not good for slam
3♠
invitational4♣♦♥
singleton/void with ♠ support4NT
quantitative
1NT–2♣–2NT
2NT
4–4 majors, minimum3♣
slam try with 5♣s3♦♥
transfer 4+ cards, after that 3NT is a general slam try and new suits show shortage3♠
5♦s, slam try
1NT–2♣–3♣
3♣
4–4 majors, maximum3♦♥
transfer 4+ cards, after that 3NT is a general slam try and new suits show shortage3♠
5♦s, slam try4♣
5♣s, slam try
1NT–2♦
Responder's 2NT vs 3♣♦ rebid preferences after transfer:
- 3♣♦: ~13+ slam interest (2NT is limited when unbalanced)
- 3♣♦: distributional 5–5+
- either: 5–4–3–1 (can show short suit via 2NT if other 3 suits covered to check NT)
- either: 6–4 (make it up with 6–4 shape)
- 2NT: 5–4–2–2, poorer suit quality
- 3♣♦: 5–4–2–2, concentrated good suit quality
Responder's 2NT vs 3NT 5–3–3–2 rebid preferences after transfer:
- 2NT: slam interest, 5–3–3–2
- 2NT: nothing in short suit, 5–3–3–2
- 2NT: generally prefer trump contract if supported
- 3NT: top (A/K/Q) honour in short suit, 5–3–3–2
2♦
transfer to ♥, 5+ cards2♥
normal bid2♠
artificial, 5♥s invitational, also denies 4♠s (use Stayman)2NT
minimum, no support, maybe 4–3–3–3 though3♣♦
natural NF, often 5–5, dislikes 2NT
3♣
relay, shortness ask3♦
♠ singleton, OR some hands with a doubleton, can stop in 4♣♦3♥
no shortage3♠
last train like, 3NT or game in ♥s
3♠
♣ shortage, can stop in 4♣♦3NT
♦s shortage, can stop in 4♣♦
3♦♠
natural, maximum, 5 card suit3♥
minimum, support3NT
maximum, no support4♥
maximum, support
2NT
GF, 5 ♥s various (5–3–3–2, 5–4♣/♦–3–1/2–2) OR weak 6 carder slam interest3♣
relay, shortness ask, possible support, more NT suited depending on a shortage location3♦
artificial other major singleton, OR some hands with other major weak doubleton with good chance of 4M/5m alternative3♥
artificial ask, not much 3NT interest, maybe single stopper3♠
doubleton in other major3NT
NF, pass with help e.g. Jx4♣
natural, finding second (minor) suit
3NT
4♣s with 3♦s (1–5–3–4)unbid
cue, minor slam try4NT
optional ♣ RKB
4♣
4♦s with 3♣s (1–5–4–3)unbid
cue, minor slam try4NT
optional ♣ RKB
4♥
5–3–3–2, probably need to play here
3♠
artificial request to bid 3NT if have doubleton (or singleton honour)3NT
nothing special4♣♦
5 card minor with 5–4 minors4♥
prefer major game
3♥
any 5–3–3–2 OR limited 5–4–2–2 (maybe 5–4–3–1 A/K singleton) OR weak 6 carder slam interest3♠
normal bid with 3 card support OR Ax/Kx support3NT
NF, only passable with Hx or xxx
3NT
not much support, Qx at best4♣♦
5 card minor and Ax/Kx/Qx major support4♥
reasonable support, minimum
3♠
artificial ♣ shortage (4♦s)4♣
double fit (other minor)4♦
support4♥
to play
3NT
artificial ♦ shortage (4♣s)4♣
support4♦
double fit (other minor)4♥
to play
3♦
artificial support for partner, ♥ support3♥
artificial ♠ singleton (other major), slam interest3♠
relay, ask, checking for 4–4 minor fit3NT
4♣s4♣
4♦s4♥
was looking for 5 card minor
3NT
play suggestion4♣♦
5 card minor4♥
to play, no slam interest
3♠
artificial slam try, no shortness, cannot play 3NT3NT
normal bid, rarely 4–3–3–34♣♦
good 5 card minor, may have double fit4♥
minimum, OR often most 4–3–3–3 hands
3NT
limited slam try, no shortness, NF, needs trump help4♣♦
singleton, slam interest4♥
to play, no slam interest
3♥
artificial special hands, HH doubleton (2 honour) support, without concern to check shortness for NT3♠
relay, ask for 5 card minor3NT
no4♣♦
reasonable 5 card suit
3NT
to play4♣♦
singleton, mild slam try4♥
to play
3♠
artificial 5♠s other major, decent suit if also ♥ support3NT
natural, no fit, no interest in a possible singleton4♣♦
picture raise, HHx+ super-fit and good 5 card minor4♥
xxxx support and 4–3–3–3 shape
3♣
GF at least 5♥–4♣ (5–5, 6–4, 6–5 etc.)3♦
quasi-natural bid3♥
♥ support3NT
forcingnew
shortness4♣
5♥–5♣
3♠
quasi-natural3NT
natural, not good fit for responder's suits4♣
♣ support, reasonable hand4♦
support for both suits, 3+ honours in both suits4♥
♥ support, not good ♣ fit
3♦
GF at least 5♥–4♦ (5–5, 6–4, 6–5 etc.)3♥
ambiguous, weakness unbid suit OR ♦ support minimum OR Hx ♥ support and 3 card ♦ fit3♠
good ♥s3NT
xx in ♥s, 4 ♦s support4♣
cue, Hx in ♥s4♦
Hx in ♥s and 4 ♦s support4♥
Hx in ♥s
3♠
artificial, ♥ support3NT
natural, not a good fit for responder's suits4♣
support for both suits, 3+ honours in both suits4♦
♦ support, reasonable hand4♥
♥ support, not good ♦ fit
3♥
invitational, 6♥s3♠
void, ♥ slam try3NT
NF, usually 5–3–3–2 with an A/K/Q honour in short suit4♣♦
void, ♥ slam try4♥
to play4NT
quantitative
2♠
good ♥ support, NOT maximum, not necessary2NT
support, maximum, but looking for 3NT3♦
retransfer3NT
likes NT4♣♦♠
void
3♣♦
natural, unusual3♥
support, maximum
1NT–2♥
2♥
transfer to ♠, 5+ cards2♠
normal bid2NT
GF with 5–3–3–2 (may avoid 3NT even with 5–3 fit) / 5–4–2–2 or 5–4–3–1 any singleton, can't stop in 4♣♦ after GF (4CD only NF if responder shown 8+ minor cards)3♣
relay, shortness ask, possible support, more NT suited depending on a shortage location3♦
artificial other major singleton, OR some hands with other major weak doubleton with good chance of 4M/5m alternative3♥
artificial ask, not much 3NT interest, maybe single stopper3♠
doubleton in other major3NT
NF, pass with help e.g. Jx4♣
natural, finding second (minor) suit
3NT
4♣s with 3♦s (1–5–3–4)unbid
cue, minor slam try4NT
optional ♣ RKB
4♣
4♦s with 3♣s (1–5–4–3)unbid
cue, minor slam try4NT
optional ♣ RKB
4♠
5–3–3–2, probably need to play here
3♠
artificial request to bid 3NT if have doubleton (or singleton honour)3NT
nothing special4♣♦
5 card minor with 5–4 minors4♠
prefer major game
3♥
artificial ♣ shortage (4♦s)4♣
double fit (other minor)4♦
support4♠
to play
3♠
any 5–3–3–2 OR limited 5–4–2–2 (maybe 5–4–3–1 A/K singleton) OR weak 6 carder slam interest3♠
normal bid with 3 card support OR Ax/Kx support3NT
NF, only passable with Hx or xxx
3NT
not much support, Qx at best4♣♦
5 card minor and Ax/Kx/Qx major support4♠
reasonable support, minimum
3NT
artificial ♦ shortage (4♣s)4♣
support4♦
double fit (other minor)4♠
to play
3♦
artificial support for partner, ♠ support3♥
artificial ♥ singleton (other major), slam interest3♠
relay, ask, checking for 4–4 minor fit3NT
4♣s4♣
4♦s4♠
was looking for 5 card minor
3NT
play suggestion4♣♦
5 card minor4♠
to play, no slam interest
3♠
artificial slam try, no shortness, cannot play 3NT3NT
normal bid, rarely 4–3–3–34♣♦
good 5 card minor, may have double fit4♠
minimum, OR often most 4–3–3–3 hands
3NT
limited slam try, no shortness, NF, needs trump help4♣♦
singleton, slam interest4♠
to play, no slam interest
3♥
artificial special hands, HH doubleton (2 honour) support, without concern to check shortness for NT3♠
relay, ask for 5 card minor3NT
no4♣♦
reasonable 5 card suit
3NT
to play4♣♦♥
singleton, mild slam try4♠
to play
3♠
artificial 5♥s other major, decent suit if also ♠ support3NT
natural, no fit, no interest in a possible singleton4♣♦
picture raise, HHx+ super-fit and good 5 card minor4♠
xxxx support and 4–3–3–3 shape
3♣
GF with at least 5♠–4♣ (5–5, 6–4, 6–5 etc.)3♦
quasi-natural3♥
quasi-natural3♠
♠ support3NT
slam try, often no singleton4♣
5–54♦♥
singleton, mild plus slam try looking for good fit4♠
to play5♦♥
void, 5–5+ hand
3NT
natural, not a good fit in responder's suits4♣
support, reasonable hand4♦♥
good double fit4♠
♠ support, not a good fit
3♦
GF with at least 5♠–4♦ (5–5, 6–4, 6–5 etc.)3♥
ambiguous, e.g. hole in ♥ or ♣ side suit, or weaker ♦ support3♠
good ♠s, maybe extras, but not 5–53NT
probably min with ♦ supportother
scrambling lacking a stop
3♠
♠ support3NT
natural, not a good fit in responder's suits4♣
good double fit4♦
support, reasonable hand4♥
cue / last train4♠
suggest to play, good suit
4♥
good double fit4♠
♠ support, not a good fit
3♥
5–5 majors, invitational (use stayman if weaker)3♠
invitational, 6♠s3NT
NF, usually 5–3–3–2 with A/K/Q honour in short suit4♣♦♥
void, ♠ slam try4♠
to play4NT
quantitative
2NT
maximum, support but also looking for 3NT3♥
retransfer (to play 3♠/4♠ or make slam try)3NT
likes NT4♣♦♥
void
3♣♦
natural, unusual3♥
good ♠ support, NOT maximum3♠
♠ support, maximum
1NT–2♠/2NT
- decline/accept invite is about the minor fit, not HCP, similar to 3♣/♦ opening
2♠
range ask OR transfer to ♣s, 6+ cards, weak or invite plus2NT
decline an invite3♣
signoff3♦♥♠
singleton, finding right game or slam3NT
to play4♣
slam try4♦♥♠
void
3♣
accept an invite3♦♥♠
singleton, finding right game or slam3NT
to play4♣
slam try4♦♥♠
void
2NT
transfer to ♦s, 6+ cards, weak or invite plus3♣
decline an invite3♦
signoff3♥♠
singleton, finding right game or slam4♣
singleton, slam try4♦
slam try4♥♠
void5♣
void
3♦
accept an invite3♥♠
singleton, finding right game or slam4♣
singleton, slam try (passed 3NT already)4♦
slam try4♥♠
void5♣
void
1NT–3♣
Puppet Stayman
- 3 card major(s), maybe 5332 with long minor and slam try values
- One 4 card major (use Stayman with 4–4 majors) game plus values
- NOT slam try (43)(51) nor (42)(52), all these slam try hands with a longer minor start with 2♣ Stayman
- Minor slam try follows ons use the same 4NT negative, artifical last train and auto RKB responses as after the 2NT opening
3♣
Puppet Stayman3♦
no 5 card major3♥
4♠s, paradox3NT
natural, no major fit4♣
4 card minor slam try (4–3–2–4)4♦
last train like, 4+ card support, 2 keycards4NT
RKB5♣
to play5x
auto RKB responses
4♥♠
cue4NT
natural, negative5♣
negative, 5 card support, 2 keycards5x
auto RKB responses, 3+ keycards
4♦
4 card minor slam try (4–3–4–2)4♥
last train like, 4+ card support, 2 keycards4NT
RKB5♦
to play5x
auto RKB responses
4♠
cue4NT
natural, negative5x
auto RKB responses, 3+ keycards5♦
negative, 5 card support, 2 keycards
3♠
4♥s, paradox3NT
natural, no major fit4♣
4 card minor slam try (3–4–2–4)4♦
last train like, 4+ card support, 2 keycards4NT
RKB5♣
to play5x
auto RKB responses
4♥♠
cue4NT
natural, negative5♣
negative, 5 card support, 2 keycards5x
auto RKB responses, 3+ keycards
4♦
4 card minor slam try (3–4–4–2)4♥
last train like, 4+ card support, 2 keycards4NT
RKB5♦
to play5x
auto RKB responses
4♠
cue4NT
natural, negative5x
auto RKB responses, 3+ keycards5♦
negative, 5 card support, 2 keycards
3NT
to play4♣
5 card minor slam try, 3–2–5–3 shape4♦
last train like, 3 card support and 3+ keycards, maybe poor trumps4♥♠
cue4NT
♣ RKB5♣
to play5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
4NT
♣ RKB5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
4♥
cue, ♣ support, good 3+ card support4NT
♣ RKB5♣
to play5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
4♠
cue, ♣ support, good 3+ card support4NT
♦ RKB5♣
to play5x
auto ♦ RKB responses
4NT
negative, 2 card support or 3 cards + 2 keycards5♣
to play5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
5♣
negative, good 4 card support, 2 keycards5♦♥
auto ♣ RKB, excellent ♣ fit (3+ keycards)
4♦
5 card minor slam try, 3–2–5–3 shape4♥
last train like, 3 card support and 3+ keycards, maybe poor trumps4NT
♦ RKB5♦
to play5x
auto ♦ RKB responses
4♠
cue, unlikely, maybe ♥ weakness4NT
♦ RKB5♦
to play5x
auto ♦ RKB responses
4NT
negative, 2 card support or 3 cards + 2 keycards5♦
to play5x
auto ♦ RKB responses
5♦
negative, good 4 card support, 2 keycards5x
auto ♦ RKB responses
4NT
quantitative
3♥
5 card ♥ suit3♠
♥ slam try3NT
to play4♣♦
5 card minor slam try, 3–2–(5–3) shape4♥
to play4♠
Kickback4NT
quantitative
3♠
5 card ♠ suit3NT
to play4♣
♠ slam try (4♥ is too high to use for the more common ♠ slam try)4♦
2–3–5–34♥
artificial, 2–3–3–5 ♣ suit4♠
last train like, 3 card support and 3+ keycards, maybe poor trumps4NT
♣ RKB5♣
to play5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
4NT
negative, 2 card support or 3 cards + 2 keycards5♣
to play5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
5♣
negative, good 4 card support, 2 keycards5♦♥
auto ♣ RKB, excellent ♣ fit (3+ keycards)
4♠
to play4NT
quantitative (as with muppet stayman over 2NT, use 4♣ ♠ slam try for RKB)
1NT–3♦
- not with a void and ♥ slam try, start with 2♦ instead
- not weak (e.g. K98xxx) 6 card suit ♥ slam try (prefer transfer then GF 2NT)
3♦
either ♥ slam try transfer, no void OR GF ♥ shortage with 5–4/4–5 minors3♥
normal bid, better than xx3♠
♥ general slam try, can be mild slam try3NT
♠ cue, serious4♣♦
cue4♥
minimum, bad honours for slam
3NT
NF, singleton ♥, 3–1–4–5 or 3–1–5–4 (can stop in 4♣/4♦)minor
to play4♥
slam try, maximum, fitting4♠
to play
4♣♦
shortage, ♥ slam try, can be mild slam try4♥
mild slam try, looking for good trump support
3NT
bad ♥s, bad hand, slam warning, weak xx in ♥s4♥
bad ♥s, good hand, xx in ♥s, but very good hand
1NT–3♥
- not with a void and ♠ slam try, start with 2♥ instead
- not weak (e.g. K98xxx) 6 card suit ♠ slam try (prefer transfer then GF 2NT)
3♥
either ♠ slam try transfer, no void OR GF ♠ shortage with 5–4/4–5 minors3♠
normal bid, better than xx3NT
NF, singleton, 1–3–4–5 or 1–3–5–4 (can stop in 4♣/4♦)minor
to play4♥
to play4♠
slam try, maximum, fitting
4♣
general ♠ slam try4♦♥
shortage, ♠ slam try, can be mild slam try4♠
mild slam try, looking for a good trump support
3NT
bad ♠s, bad hand, slam warning, weak xx in ♠s4♠
bad ♠s, good hand, xx in ♠s, but very good hand
1NT–3♠
3♠
minors 5–5, GF and maybe slam try3NT
no special fit4♣
slam try, 5–54♦
shortness ask, can stop in 4NT4♥♠
support, ♣/♦ Lissabon preference, 2 keycards4NT
negative5♣♦
to play, probably 1 keycard5x
auto double fit RKB, 3+ keycards
4♦
slam try, 6–5–1–1 (no void)4♥♠
support, ♣/♦ Lissabon agreement, 2 keycards4NT
negative5♣♦
to play, probably 1 keycard5x
auto double fit RKB, 3+ keycards
4♥♠
void4NT
negative5♣♦
to play, 3+ cards5x
auto double fit RKB, 3+ keycards
4NT
pick a minor ask
4♣♦
good for minor contract4♥♠
♣/♦ only 3–2/2–3 fit, but great honours4NT
only 3–3 minors fit, but good honours fit
1NT–4♣♦
To play a major game, preemptive or good values.
4♣
♥ transfer4♦
♥ super fit, 3+ keycards4♥
completed, normal bid
4♦
♠ transfer4♥
♠ super fit, 3+ keycards4♠
completed, normal bid
1NT Interference and Lebensohl
Lebensohl variations are played in a number of blanket NT and other places where the idea is relevant.
Most important is its use against weak twos and after we have made natural opening strength
(or better) 1NT bid / overcall.
- 1NT–(Overcall) (but not 2♣ as just ignore)
- (1X)–1NT Overcall by us including Protective–(bid over)
- 1♣–(2♦♥♠)
- 1♣–1♦–(2♦♥♠)–X
- 1♦–(2♥♠)
- (1C prepared)–2♣ natural
- (1D prepared)–2♦ natural
- (1H)–X–(2H)
- (1S)–X–(2S)
- balancing or reopening doubles forcing partner to bid
- (Weak 2♦♥♠)–X
- (1NT weak)–X–(XX Escape)
- (1NT weak)–X–(2D+ Escape) (but not 2♣ escape as just ignore)
- (1NT weak)–P–(2x)–X
- (2D multi)–X
Our (1) main variant (note: Lebensohl variants) is a form of transfer Lebensohl.
There are other variants that are used in specific situations - (2) when FORCED to bid over a major preempt and
(3) partner is likely unbalanced and we may pass or double, so NOT forced to bid
The custom structure to the (1) main transfer Lebensohl variant is:
- 2suit bids are natural weak/competitive
- 2NT multi-way puppet to ♣s either weak/competitive ♣/♦ hands or GF ♣s
- 3♣/3♦/3♥ transfers to new suits are invitational plus - opener with fit/good hand bids on
- transfer around/through the cue suit
- Cue is GF staymanic, at least 3 other major, and if double also available it shows a singleton/void in opponents' suit
- Cue implies NO stop, i.e. cue showing a singleton, but also after a double
- X is staymanic not suitable for staymanic cue bid (of a natural suit implied but maybe not bid)
- X negative then 3NT shows the other major and a stopper
- X negative then cue bid shows the other major and NO stopper
- X then new suit is invitational, exactly 5 cards (probably poor suit as not transferred)
- 3♥ over opponents 2♠ is weak/competitive
- 3NT is to play, stop
For variant (2) when we are FORCED to bid OVER a MAJOR preempt, then there is Better Minor Lebensohl.
The variant (3) RLEB is typically (1M)–X–(2M), but could be (2D multi)–X–(2M) or
(1m)–2m, where we can pass, maybe double (responsive / flattish), show NT interest plus stop with invite plus values
immediately or the final option is to bid a suit without any invitational nuance before opener gets in the way again
(decide to punt game or just compete immediately)
Over a balanced hand
1♣♦/1NT–(2♦)
X
staymanic 3+ both majors, follow on suit bid is poor 5 card invitational, follow on cue stop ask2♥♠
weak2NT
puppet, weak or GF ♣s3♣
invitational plus ♥3♦
no fit, no stop, any strength (not any minimum as no room for cue stop ask)3♥
fit, minimum3♠
natural, 5 carder maximum/strong, no stop implied3NT
no fit, stopper, any strength (not ideal with minimum but helps the GF responder decide)
3♦
cue, GF staymanic, singleton/void in ♦s3♥
invitational plus ♠3♠
minimum3NT
no fit, stopper, any strength (not ideal with minimum but helps the GF responder decide)4♣♦♥
natural (possibly strong 1♣ opening)
3♠
artificial, GF, no stopper3NT
to play, stop implied, no other major4x
as weak two defence – leaping michaels
1♣♦/1NT–(2♥)
Dbl
staymanic 8+ guarantee 3oM, follow on suit bid is poor 5 card invitational, follow on cue stop ask2♠
natural3x
new suit, invitational weak suit3♠
invite
2NT
stop, NF, without major fit3♣♦
natural, weaker3♥
(after 1C opening) forcing, strong two suiter-ish3♠
extras, 5 card ♠ fit3NT
stop, strong4♣♦
natural, strong4NT
♠ RKB
2♠
weak3♥
extras, 5 card ♠ fit3♠
4 card support
2NT
puppet, weak minor or GF clubs(X)
usually penalty(3♥)
more interferencePass
opener should pass not knowing what responder has
X = penalty
3NT = natural, stop
4♣♦ = competitive
(3x)
new suit interference
3♣
invitational plus ♦3♦
minimum, maybe only 2 card support (still room to cue stop ask)3♥
stop ask, stronger hand3♠
natural, GF, 4+ card suit, diamonds worth bidding instead of initial cue or X4♣
GF, natural4♦
GF, slam try4♥
Redwood for ♦s
3♥
maximum/strong, no stop3♠
natural, GF, 4+ card suit, diamonds worth bidding instead of initial cue or X4♣
GF, natural4♦
NF, opener could raise with good support4♥
Redwood for ♦s
3♠
natural, 5 carder (possibly strong 1♣ opening), no stop implied4♣
GF, natural, 5+ suit4♦
NF4♥
Redwood for ♦s4NT
♠ RKB
3NT
maximum/strong, stopper4♣
natural, strong4♦
♦ slam try, last train like4♥
Redwood for ♦s, probably strong 1♣ opener
3♦
invitational plus ♠3♥
no fit, no stop, any strength (not any minimum as no room for cue stop ask)3♠
NF3NT
stop, GF hand4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
♠ slam try
3♠
fit, minimum3NT
no fit, stopper, any strength (not ideal with minimum but helps the GF responder decide)4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
♠ slam try
4♣♦
natural, strong4♥
last train ♠ fit, strong4♠
fit, maximum/strong4NT
♠ RKB, probably strong 1♣ opener
3♥
GF, staymanic 4♠s + singleton/void in ♥s, no stop3♠
fit, extras3NT
no fit, stopper4♣♦
natural, strong4♥
last train ♠ fit, strong4♠
fit, fast arrival5♣♦
5 cards, to play
3♠
artificial, GF, no stopper3NT
to play, stop or pray4♣♦
no stop, natural
3NT
to play, stop implied, no other major4x
as weak two defence – leaping michaels
1♣♦/1NT–(2♠)
Dbl
staymanic 8+ guarantee 3oM, follow on suit bid is poor 5 card invitational, follow on cue stop ask2NT
stop, NF, without major fit3♣♦
natural, weaker3♥
fit, minimum3♠
(after 1C opening) forcing, strong two suiter-ish3NT
stop, strong4♣♦
natural, strong4♥
fit, non-minimum4NT
natural, 3 card only major
4♠
♥ RKB4NT
quantitative
2NT
puppet, weak minor or GF clubs (maybe only 4♣s if GF balanced no stop - no dedicated bid)(X)
usually penalty(3♠)
more interferencePass
opener should pass not knowing what responder has
X = penalty
3NT = natural, stop
4♣♦ = competitive
(3x)
new suit interference
3♣
invitational plus ♦3♦
minimum, maybe only 2 card support (still room to cue stop ask)3♥
natural, GF, 4+ card suit, diamonds worth bidding instead of initial cue or X3♠
stop ask, stronger hand4♣
GF, natural4♦
GF, slam try4♥
Redwood for ♦s
3♥
natural, 5 carder (possibly strong 1♣ opening), no stop implied4♣
GF, natural, 5+ suit4♦
NF4♥
Redwood for ♦s4NT
♠ RKB
3♠
maximum/strong, no stop4♣
GF, natural4♦
NF, opener could raise with good support4♥
Redwood for ♦s
3NT
maximum/strong, stopper4♣
natural, strong4♦
♦ slam try, last train like4♥
Redwood ♦s
3♦
invitational plus ♥3♥
minimum, maybe only 2 card support (still room to cue stop ask)3♠
no stop, GF, only 5 card ♥ suit3NT
stop, GF hand4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
to play4♠
♥ RKB5♣♦
♥ EKB
3♠
no fit, no stop, maximum/strong4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
to play4♠
♥ RKB5♣♦
♥ EKB
3NT
no fit, stopper, maximum/strong (not any strength as still room to cue stop ask over 3♥ response)4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
to play4♠
♥ RKB
4♣♦
natural, strong4♥
fit, maximum/strong
3♥
fast weak/competitive with ♥s3♠
GF, staymanic 4♥s + singleton/void in ♠s3NT
no fit, stopper4♣♦
natural, strong4♥
last train4♠
♥ Kickback4NT
quantitative5♣♦
5 cards, to play
3NT
to play, stop implied, no other major4x
as weak two defence – leaping michaels
Over a Weak 2♦ takeout double
(2D)–X
2♥♠
weak2NT
puppet, weak or GF ♣s OR one 4 card major invite plus3♣
puppet, normal takeout double3♦
staymanic, one 4 card major3♥♠
pass/correct4♥
pass/correct
3♦
power takeout double, usually 5–4+ majors3♥♠
power double
3♣
invitational plus ♥3♦
no fit, no stop, any strength (not any minimum as no room for cue stop ask)3♥
fit, minimum3♠
natural, 5 carder maximum/strong, no stop implied3NT
no fit, stopper, any strength (not ideal with minimum but helps the GF responder decide)
3♦
cue, GF staymanic 4–3/4–4/5–4 majors3M
4 cards4♦
4–4 doubler4M
5 cards
3♥
invitational plus ♠3♠
minimum3NT
no fit, stopper, any strength (not ideal with minimum but helps the GF responder decide)4♣♦♥
natural (possibly strong 1♣ opening)
3♠
artificial, GF, no stopper3NT
to play, stop implied, no other major4x
natural preempt
Better Minor Lebensohl over a major preempt takeout double
- a.k.a "Gucci Lebensohl"
- Responder and the takeout doubler can have a wide range, responder is FORCED to bid OVER a MAJOR preempt
- We have no bid to to show an invitational ♣ hand, but can escape to our best minor fit
Better minor makes no sense over a weak two ♦ preempt, and there's no space for better major, which is why 2♦ can be
such an effective preempt
(2H)–X
2♠
weak2NT
ask for better minor3♣♦
better minorPass
to play, opposite "normal" takeout double3♦
to play, weak ♦s3♥
cue, GF with STOP and 4♠s3♠
4 card invitational3NT
NO stop, maybe 3♠s + 5/6 minor or both minors
3♥
power double type strong hand, e.g. 5–4+3♠
natural, extra strength ~17+, 5+ card major bid3NT
power double with stop
3♣
~0–10 hcp3♦
natural, invitational3♥
no stop, 4♠s3♠
5 card invitational3NT
to play, stop implied, no other major4♣♦
natural, GF, unsuitable for 3NT
(2S)–X
2NT
ask for better minor3♣♦
better minorPass
to play, opposite "normal" takeout double3♦♥
to play, weak hand3♠
cue, GF with STOP and 4♥s3NT
NO stop, maybe 3♥s + 5/6 minor or both minors
3♥
natural, extra strength ~17+, 5+ card major bid3♠
power double type strong hand, e.g. 5–4+3NT
power double with stop
3♣
~0–10 hcp3♦♥
natural, invitational3♠
no stop, 4♥s3NT
to play, stop implied, no other major4♣♦
natural, GF, unsuitable for 3NT4♥
game values
Reversed Lebensohl RLEB
- Only when we can PASS and partner is expected to be UNBALANCED, i.e (1M)–X–(2M), but could be (2D multi)–X–(2M) or
(1m)–2m
- In these auctions where partner is unbalanced and often has their own suit to show then transfer Lebensohl makes less sense
- Unlike Better Minor "Gucci" Lebensohl, we can just pass if we have nothing helpful to say
- The auction is already live with two bids from the opposition, we need to show shape or NT feature immediately
- 2NT puts focus on finding a NT contract, promises some sort of stop(s) and is at least invitational. This 2NT is
"Reversed" compared to standard Lebensohl in that it does not focus on splitting up strength ranges weak/invite/GF. It
focuses on do we have a stop and game try values. This is reasonable because we can always pass with a bad hand and
with a very weak hand opposite a very strong partner we maybe pushed towards game anyway - we often don't have enough
space to discourage them if they are doing power takeout doubles
- 3x new suits are weak / competitive with no way to show invitational strength, i.e ~0–9(10) hcp. You must choose
between a game punt or competing (which is similar to the Better Minor Gucci Lebensohl 3♣ bid). The motivation is to
get into the auction before opener shuts us out. We might compete and reopen double with a max 9/10 hcp
- Double is the usual responsive double style which can include flattish / no stop hands
including a 5 card ♥ invite after (1S)–X–(2S)
- the name doesn't really help, as other variations of Lebensohl might be called "Reverse" Lebensohl (without the 'd')
Having said all the above, there is more invitational nuance when the opponents bid the lower suits, ♣s, ♦s and ♥s.
It might be better to play these jump 3x bids as GF with possible slam interest instead of invitational, but that would
be rarer. A GF 5+ card hand with stop can bid 2NT first, and without a stop start with a cue bid and hope to resolve e.g.
both majors vs one major slam try later
(1C)–X–(2C)
2♦♥♠
competitive ~0–9(10) hcp2NT
F1, invite plus with suitable NT stop, rarely exact invite both majors3♣
artificial, minimum ~11–13(14)3♦
staymanic3♥♠
NF, usually play there
3♦
artificial, GF staymanic, ~14+3♥♠
GF, 5+ suit3NT
~14–19 to play4♦
GF, 5+ suit4NT
quantitative ~20 hcp
3♣
GF both majors (or possibly one major and slam try with shortage)3♦♥♠
jump available, invitational 5+ cards3NT
natural, no major4♣
slam try both majors, ♣ shortage4♦
natural, GF, unsuitable for 3NTDbl
responsive, at least one major
(1D)–X–(2D)
2♥♠
competitive ~0–9(10) hcp2NT
F1, invite plus with suitable NT stop, rarely exact invite both majors3♣
artificial, minimum ~11–13(14)3♦
staymanic3♥♠
NF, usually play there
3♦
artificial, GF staymanic, ~14+3♥♠
GF, 5+ suit3NT
~14–19 to play4♣
GF, 5+ suit4NT
quantitative ~20 hcp
3♣
competitive, natural ~0–9(10) hcp3♦
GF both majors (or possibly one major and slam try with shortage)3♥♠
jump available, invitational 5+ cards3NT
natural, no major4♣
natural, GF, unsuitable for 3NT4♦
slam try both majors, ♦ shortageDbl
responsive, at least one major
(1H)–X–(2H)
2♠
competitive ~0–9(10) hcp2NT
F1, invite plus with suitable NT stop, possibly one major with exact invite3♣♦
better minor, minimum ~11–13(14)3♦
invitational, natural3♥
stop and 4♠s, choice of game3♠
NF, usually play there3NT
natural, was waiting before with 2NT4♣♦
forcing, natural
3♠
5+ ♠s 17+ GF3NT
~14–19 to play4♣♦
~17+ natural 5+ card suit4♥
both minors slam try4NT
quantitative ~20 hcp
3♣♦
competitive, natural ~0–9(10) hcp3♥
cue NO stop, GF 4(+)♠s (possibly stronger 5+ card slam try)3♠
jump available, invitational 5+ cards3NT
natural, no other major4♣♦
natural, GF, unsuitable for 3NT4♥
splinter, ♠ slam tryDbl
responsive, denies 4♠s
(1S)–X–(2S)
2NT
F1, invite plus with suitable NT stop, possibly 4♥s exact invite3♣♦
better minor, minimum ~11–13(14)3♦
invitational, natural3♥
NF, invitational, 4 ♥s (not forcing as over 1H–X–2H)3♠
cue, 4♥s GF (possibly stronger 5+ card slam try)3NT
natural, was waiting before with 2NT4♣♦
forcing, natural
3♥
5+ ♥s 17+ GF3♠
4♥s GF3NT
~14–19 to play4♣♦
~17+ natural 5+ card suit4♠
both minors slam try4NT
quantitative ~20 hcp
3♣♦♥
competitive, natural ~0–9(10) hcp3♠
cue NO stop, GF 4(+)♥s (possibly stronger 5+ card slam try)3NT
natural, no major4♥
5+ ♥ suit (possibly 4 card e.g. AKJ9)4♠
EKB, 5+ ♥ suitDbl
responsive, maybe 4♥s competitive or 5♥s invite2NT
artificial, 4♥s3♥
invitational, usualy 4♥s not 5♥s
3♣♦
NF natural, denies 4♥s3♥
invitational, often 5♥s
3♥
GF 5♥s3♠
GF without ♥s, usually both minors3NT
~18–20 NT with stopper4♣♦
GF single suiter(3S)
competition
Overcalls of our NT
- 1NT opening then interference
- 1NT overcall then interference
- 1♣/1♦ openings which are assumed to be NT type hands
What is our first double?
The default is negative, meaning any of:
- weak competitive hand with perfect takeout shape, 4–4–4–1
- less than invitational, but can handle partner's responses with minimum level conversion bids. Note, because opener is
very defined they never jump the bidding and minimum level conversion fits unlike other negative double scenarios
- invitational plus hands, possibly very off shape, just trying to showing e.g. a 4 card other major
- even balancing by opener, most hands with doubleton in their suit, 15+ hcp outside of the doubleton
Any negative double at the 3 level (especially 4 level!) is basically GF and starts to lack clear shape information,
mostly being used to show values.
Priority order meta agreement (that works in other situations such as us opening 1HS and opponents bidding 2 suiters)
for 2 and 3 level interference:
- two specific suits, e.g. 2♣/2♦ majors, 2NT minors – values, system off even over 2♣
- over double or 2♣ interference – system on, stolen bid double
- artificial, may show some other suit, e.g. transfer overcall, (X) major + minor, or 2♣ ♥ + any, or 2♣ any single suiter, or 2♦ multi – biddable natural suit
- natural catchall, e.g. 2♦ ♦ + any, 2♥ ♥ + any – negative
- values means we want to take ownership of the auction. At that point partner will double for penalty or pass
and let us double for penalty, otherwise we bid on having shown invitational plus values with the inability to penalise
- after a natural (values in suit / stolen) double of an ambiguous bid, e.g. 2♣ showing some single suiter and double
showing ♣s, our side can double again as if they were making their first bid (presumably something more natural)
- we focus on penalty / value doubles of artificial specific two suiters as they are less like to have a "safe" 6 card
suit to play in compared to single suiter overcalls and it's easy to be specific about cue bids
What is a redouble?
A redouble of a non-penalty double has the same meanings as double. The exception is a redouble of an artificial bid
cannot show a biddable suit so it is again values showing.
When the opposing double is penalty/values we naturally use the 1NT Escape module.
What is our second double?
- Normally, double is penalty
- After doubling an artificial bid initially, double follows the same rules as our first double
negative double responses
Natural mainly but
- 2NT scrambling over (2♥/2♠)–X, e.g. 4–4, or 4–3 minors and 3 card bad major
- 2NT natural over (2♣/2♦)–X
what is a generic cue bid?
Where the cue bid does not have a specific meaning (such as directly over 2C showing majors):
- When we have TWO KNOWN suits to stop, then cue bids SHOW a stop
- With ONE KNOWN suit to stop, then cue bids ASK for a stop
- With negative doubles there's less need for staymanic cue bids, but a higher cue can be GF staymanic with singleton
NT Interference
1NT–(X)
takeoutPass
willing to play if advancer converts to penalty, may double on the next round for takeoutXX
as double of what the bid shows- system on
1NT–(2♣
artificial) e.g. cappelletti 1 suiterX
Stolen bid double, stand in for 2♣ system onOthers
1NT system on
1NT–(2♣
natural)X
Stolen bid double, stand in for 2♣Others
1NT system on
1NT–(2♣♦
both majors)X
values / penalty2♦
to play2♥
competitive plus minors, often (1–3)(5–4) or 5–5 minors, not values doubling interest2♠
♣s, invite plus (same as normal transfers)2NT
♦s, invite plus3♣♦
to play3♥♠
GF, auto-splinter, 5–5 minors
1NT–(2♦♥♠)
X
negative of natural2x
NF2NT+
Lebensohl System
1NT–(2D
♠ + ?) e.g. astroX
♦s2♠
stop ask (one known suit)Others
Lebensohl System
1NT–(2D
♥ + ?)X
♦s2♥
stop askOthers
Lebensohl System
1NT–(2D
unknown major)X
♦ valuesOthers
Lebensohl System, no cue bid though
1NT–(2H
both majors) awkward to defend, but rareX
penalty / values, awkward, partner needs 3+ ♥s to pass2♠
minors, competitive2NT/3♣♦
REGULAR Lebensohl3♥♠
stop showing
1NT–(2x
transfer overcall)X
bid suit values2-Cue
stop ask3-Cue
singleton stayman, GFOthers
Lebensohl System
1NT–(2NT)
usually minorsPass
maybe competitive major (most likely ♥s) hand, balancing next timeX
values3♣
stayman3♦
5+ ♥s, GF3♥
5+ ♠s, GF3♠
NF, 6+ ♠s
1NT–(3C)
Dbl
takeout, vague distributionnonJump
weak NT handnew
suits by doubler show invitational only valueslater
cue bids by doubler show that suit (natural/psyche expose)
3♦♥
transfer mild invite plusbreak
max HHx+ or 4+ cards
3♠
♦s, GF4♣
both majors 5–5+, slam try4♦
both majors 5–5+, game only
1NT–(3D)
3♥
5+ ♠ transfer, invite plus3♠
5+ ♥s, GF4♣
both majors 5–5+, slam try (note double then bid ♣s with ♣ slam try)4♦
both majors 5–5+, game only4♥♠
to play
1NT–(3D
artifical, both majors)3♥♠
show stop, looking for 3NT
1NT–(3H)
3♠
GF, natural4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
♠ transfer, no slam interest or can bid RKB by self
1NT–(3S)
4♣♦♥
GF, naturalothers
as Opponents open 3♠
1NT–(3DHS)
Dbl
Thrump, negative like but looking for 3NT, no major guarantee3♥♠
4 card major, no stopper3♠
4 card major or maybe weak 5 card major4♣♦
maybe slam hunting, often shortish minor(s)
3NT
stopper4♣♦
slam hunting, often shortish minor(s)
Jump
strong hand4NT
natural quantitative, extra strong
1NT–(4C)
X
negative (values mostly)4♦
♥ transfer4♥
♠ transfer4♠
♦ transfer
1NT–(4D)
X
negative (values mostly)4♥♠
natural
1NT–(P)–2♣
(X)
XX
to play interest, good ♣ (4 very good or 5 reasonable)2♦
3 suiter short in ♣ (was going to pass a 2♦ response)2M
natural, forcing3♦
long ♦ + 4 card major
Pass
♣ stopper, Hxx+, responder can cooperate and play 2♣ doubled
XX = re-ask Stayman
2♦ = 3 suiter short in ♣ (was going to pass a 2♦ response)
3♦ = long ♦ + 4 card major2♦+
no ♣ stop, normal Stayman responses.
(2♦)
Pass
nothing/penalty passX
negative2♥+
system on. System remains on if opponents bid no more, pretend opener bid 2♦.
(2♥♠)
X
negative2♠
5 ♠s3♥
5 ♥s (over 2♠)
(3x)
Pass
neutralX
negative3♥♠
5 card major4♥
(over 3♠) 5 card major
1NT–(P)–2♦♥
(X)
XX
to play interest (4 very good or 5 reasonable)Pass
doubleton support
XX = retransfer askcomplete
3 cards normally
(Cue)
bidding partners transfer suit with 2♥ or 2♠Pass
doubletonX
3 card support
(higher)
Pass
nothing special
X = negative, typically with doubleton, can start a force
3-lower = NF, lower ranking new suit
Cue = shortness, good hand, stop check
4x = GFX
negativeaccept
complete transfer next level, fit + non-minimumnew-suit
FNJ fit + side suit
1NT–(P)–2♠+
(X)
XX
to play interestany
system on
1NT Escape
Situations include:
- (1x)–1NT–(X)
- (1NT)–X–(P)
- (1NT)–X–(XX)
- 1NT–(X), rarely used though
- When we overcall 1NT, rarely a redouble by opener is a hand interested in running - minimum with a 5(6) card suit for the NT bid
(1NT)–X–(P)
we double a weak NTPass
~6+ hcp, creates forcing pass up to 2♥2♣
artificial, no 5 carder unless clubs2x
cheapest 5 card or 4 card suit
2♦♥♠
~0–4 hcp, natural escape2NT
artificial, 5–5 GF3x
bid 3 card suits up the line3♠
natural, long ♠s for double
3x
GF, too offensive to pass
1NT–(X)
our 1NT opening is penalty doubledPass
~4+ hcp, creates forcing pass up to 2♥XX
to play / penalise, creates forcing pass up to 2♥2♣
artificial, no 5 carder unless clubs2x
cheapest 5 card or 4 card suit
2♦♥♠
~0–4 hcp, natural escape2NT
artificial, 5–5 GF3x
bid 3 card suits up the line, baron like3♠
natural, long ♠s for double
3x
GF, too offensive to pass
(1x)–1NT–(X)
Pass
happy to playXX
to play / penalise, creates forcing pass up to 2♥2♣
artificial, no 5 carder unless clubs2x
cheapest 5 card or 4 card suit
2♦♥♠
~0–4 hcp, natural escape2NT
artificial, 5–5 GF3x
bid 3 card suits up the line, baron like3♠
natural, long ♠s for double
3x
GF, too offensive to pass
when opponents run after we have showed values
This is when we pass or XX with values and our side is done with the first round of bidding, meaning our side is
happy to sit in 1NT double or redoubled - no need to escape and no GF offensive hand.
- The 1st double is takeout, not with a void, so 1–2 cards
- The 2nd+ double is penalty
- Sitting over penalty is 4+ cards
- Sitting under penalty is cooperative 3+ cards
- Cue (now delayed) is a general force
- 2NT (now delayed) by the weaker hand is natural
- new suit (now delayed) is forcing
With (1NT)–X–(run), or rarely (1NT)–P–(P)–X–(run) our combined strength is less defined. Length is promised in the
suit bid.
This is a Lebensohl situation.
- The 1st double is takeout
- The 2nd+ double is penalty
- unclear, forcing pass up to 2♥
- 2x competitive
- 2NT+ Lebensohl system, with the penalty doubler possibly breaking the relay with hand too good to overcall
For example, 2♣ scurry with no 5 card major.
- The 1st double is values, then forcing pass up to 2♥, then resets to the "when the bid naturally" rules
- Then Resets to next double takeout then double penalty (by either partner)
- Pass is implied weak, not forcing, but could have later values to show
- The 1st double is values, then forcing pass up to 2♥, then resets to the "when the bid naturally" rules
- Then Resets to next double takeout then double penalty (by either partner)
- Standard double rules apply
- A Pass then double of transfer by advancer is 4+ card penalty
- double values
- 2NT+ Lebensohl system, if available, with the penalty doubler possibly breaking the relay with hand too good to
overcall
- 3x new suit natural, forcing
2♣ = (10)11–15 hcp, 6+ card ♣ suit. Maybe leading directing 5 card ♣ suit in 3rd.
- By judgement, open 1♣ with 5–4–2–2, 5♣ + 4 card major and (13)–15.
- By judgement, Open 1♣ with 6–3–2–2 semi-balanced max without 2/3 top honours
- Open 1♦ with 5–4–2–2 and both minors, by judgement possibly 1♣ with honours in the doubletons and (13)–15.
- By judgement, Open 1NT with 5–4–2–2, 5♣ + 4 card major and 16 hcp, possibly with 17–18 aswell.
- Open 1♦ with 5♣ and a two or three suiter without a 5 card major
- 6♣ and 5♦ (probably a maximum) may choose to open 1♦ to use the extra bidding space
- 6♣ and 5♥/♠ minimum may by judgement show a 5–5 hand opening 1♥/1♠ before showing ♣s
Responding:
- 2♥/2♠ and 3♥/♠ are NF natural bids. Beware opener may rebid their suit with a singleton over 2♥/♠ and take
the auction to the 3 level - pass can be safer though looking for a major can score better at match points.
- 2NT includes some good GF major hands and the 3♣ transfer bid is for any ♦ focussed hand. Most other
invitational plus hands including the ♣ slam try use the 2♦ enquiry.
- Hands with one or both majors and invitational plus values can use 2♦ but be willing to go to game despite potential
misfits if opener is non-minimum.
- 2NT can puppet to a 3♣ preempt. 4♣ is a preempt. Again invitational ♣s go via the 2♦ enquiry.
- 3♦ (5–5+ majors invite+) is artificial. Note the option with < GF values + 5–5 majors + 2/3 ♣s may bid 2♦.
2♣–
(any)
interference defence2♦
enquiry, many invite+ hands2♥♠
natural, NF, 5/6+ suit, ~7–10 hcp, not good invite, unlikely both majors (both majors invite+ use 2♦)Pass
doubleton major support typically2♠
natural, NF, 4+ suit, no ♥ support,2NT
poor major support, maximum and stoppers in other suits, NF3x
NF, new suit or escape to ♣ or major
3♣
singleton major support3♦/oM
NF, natural, 5 card suit. 3♠ over 2♥ is nearly GF.4thSuit
equal preference for game suit
3♥♠
3 card support, NF, not complete minimum3NT
natural, probably running suit, void/singleton in major4♣
4 card support, 7–44♦/4oM
splinter4M
4 card support, shot at game
2NT
puppet, ♣ preempt OR GF single major OR GF 6–4 majors3♣
puppetPass
♣ preempt3♦
♠ GF single suiter3♥
♥ GF single suiter3♠
6♠ + 4♥ GF3NT
4♠ + 6♥ GF
3♣
♦ transfer, invite plus3♦
limitedPass
weak hand, long ♦s3♥♠
GF, 5–5+ (note 6♦ + 4M use 2♦ enquiry)3NT
6+ diamonds, natural4♦
invitational4♥
♦ RKB
3♥♠
quasi-natural, game values4♣
good 7+ ♣ suit, forcing4♦
♣ RKB4♥♠
slam try4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback
4♦
strong ♦ support4♥
♦ RKB4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback
4♥♠
natural, 6–5 hand
3♦
5–5+ majors, invite+3♥♠
2 or 3 card support, not game valuesoM
other major shows 6–5, other game suggestion3NT
something in ♦ aswell4♣
forcing, 2 or 3 ♣ support. Opener can choose ♣ or major game.4♦
cue bid, slam try in major
3NT
good ♦, no major4♣
♣ only, NF4♦
♥ transfer, game values 3 card support or most 4 card support4♥
♠ transfer, game values 3 card support or most 4 card support
3♥♠
invitational, good suit invite e.g. AQ10xxx / KJ10xxx, (passed hand = 6–4 majors invite)3NT
to play, opener can bid on with lots shape and strength4♣
preempt4♦
Redwood for clubs4♥♠
to play (passed hand = fit jump), opener can bid on with super fit and controls4NT
Blackwood5♣
to play
2♦ enquiry
- "minimum" openers are typically 7 losers and "maximums" 6 losers
2♥
any major, any strength2♠
no major, max with shortage OR minimum with 2/3 top ♣ honours ("medium")2NT
semi-balanced max with 2/3 top ♣ honours3♣
not 2/3 top ♣ honours, minimum3♦♥♠
6–5, forcing, natural bids follow3NT
2–2–2–7 or 6–3–2–2 shape, maximum, solid clubs, some side stop4♣
usually 4–8 in minors, or 1–1–3–8, forcing4♦♥♠
7–5, excellent playing strength, 2 top losers with ♣ as trumps, e.g. x/AKxxx/-/KQJ10xxx4NT
3–1–1–8, ~3 Control Points, too weak for 1♣, unsuitable for 4♣/5♣5♣
1–3–1–8, ~3 Control Points, too weak for 1♣, unsuitable for 4♣/5♣
2♣–2♦–2♥
2♥
any major, any strength2♠
ASK, invitational non-GF2NT
♥ minimum3♣
♠ minimum3♦♥
♥/♠ maximum
2NT
GF ASK3♣♦
♥/♠ minimum3♥♠
♥/♠ maximum
3♣
♣ constructive raise3♦
♣ slam try3♥♠
shortness3NT
NF, opener can bid more with extra strength4♦
Redwood4NT
quantitative
3NT
no shortness, not good for slam4♣
no shortness, good hand4♦
short ♦, good hand
3♥♠
5 cards natural, GF3NT
to play, everything stopped
2♣–2♦–2♠
- "minimum" is typically 7 losers
2♠
no major, max with shortage OR minimum with 2/3 top ♣ honours ("medium")2NT
ASK3♣
minimum with 2/3 top ♣ honours3♦♥♠
shortage, maximum3NT
AKQxxxx, some shortage + side A/K control (semi-balanced bids 3NT immediately over 2D)
3♣
sign off, was looking for major fit3♦
♣ slam try3♥♠
shortage3NT
NF, opener can bid more with extra strength4♦
Redwood
3NT
no shortage, minimum4♣
no shortage, good hand4♦
short ♦, good hand
3♥♠
5 cards natural, GF3NT
to play
2♣–2♦–2NT
- not solid (bid 3NT over 2D)
- note, unbalanced max with 2/3 top ♣ honours has no dedicated bid
- semi-balanced max with 1 honour may just open NT, though maybe treat QJ10 or KJ10 as 2/3 top honours equivalent
2NT
semi-balanced max with 2/3 top ♣ honours3♣
waiting, stop checking, some hole3♦
♣ slam try3♥♠
control, not shortage3NT
no major control
3♥♠
5 cards natural, GF3NT
to play, maybe even 5 card major with strong stoppers in othersGame
to play
2♣–2♦–3♣+
3♣
no 4 card major, (sub)minimum, not 2 top 3 ♣ honours3♦
♣ slam try3♥♠
shortness3NT
NF, opener can bid more with extra strength4♦
Redwood
3NT
no shortness or weaker ♦ shortness, not good for slam4♣
no shortness, 7 carder, probably subminimum in hcp4♦
♦ shortness, 7 carder
3♥♠
natural 5 carder, GF3♠
stopper, unsure ♦3NT
to play4♣
only xx support, 3NT doubt4♦
cue, major support4M
to play
3NT
to play, maybe even 5 card major with strong stoppers in others4♣
invite, bid with anything redeeming for a minimum hand4♦
rare, GF natural, probably 6♦s and a 4 card major4♥♠
cue bid for ♦4NT
natural, short in ♦s
4NT
quantitative5♣♦
to play
3♦♥♠
6–5, forcing, natural bids follow.oM
forcing, natural (e.g. 6 or 7 cards)4♣
forcing4♦
forcing ♦ support over 3♦ or slam try cue bid over 3♥♠
3NT
2–2–2–7 or 6–3–2–2 shape, maximum, solid clubs, no guaranteed side stoppers4♣
forcing, slam try ♣4♦
♣ RKB4♥♠
natural, NF4NT
quantitative
4♣
usually 4–8 in minors, or 1–1–3–8, forcing4♦
♣ RKB4♥
♦ RKB4♠
♣ slam try, cue ace showing4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback
4♦♥♠
7–5, excellent playing strength, 2 top losers with ♣ as trumps, e.g. x/AKxxx/-/KQJ10xxxsuit
cue, 1st round4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback
4NT
1–3–1–8, ~3 Control Points, too weak for 1♣, unsuitable for 4♣/5♣5♣
3–1–1–8, ~3 Control Points, too weak for 1♣, unsuitable for 4♣/5♣
2♣ Interference
2♣–(Dbl)
Pass
nothing specialXX
values2♦+
system on
2♣–(2x)
Pass
nothing specialX
negative♦/♥/♠
2 level NF, 3 level forcing2NT
GF 6–4 majors (3x already forcing)cue
forcing, ♣ supportjump-cue
splinter, ♣ support
2♣–(3x/4x)
X
negative♦/♥/♠
new suit forcing
2♣–2♦–(X)
whether ♦ or ♥/♠Pass
4♦XX
5♦others
system on
- (10)11–15 hcp, 6+ card ♦ suit
- 3rd rarely a point lighter, weigh against a 3♦ opening and constructive bidding
- Not 6(7)♦ + 5♥/♠, open 1♦ (with extras) or 1♥/♠ (with minimum) instead
- 7♦/8♦–4♣/♦/♥ are fine, though may use preempts in 3rd
- 6–6 minors are very infrequent, open as seems best. A 2♣ Opener maybe the
best compromise between constructive space and preemptive.
Responding:
There are space limitations compared to the 2♣ Opener and so fewer constructive options.
- 2♥/2♠ responses are forcing, invite plus, so there is no NF signoff at the 2 level
- 2♥/2♠ can be used to look for a 4–4 fit
- Bid 2♥ with 4–4 majors or 5–5 majors
- 2NT ♦ support covers various hands from miminal ♦ support looking for 3NT, to good ♦ support or even a ♦ slam try
- 2NT can quantify opener's strength before stopper/control bids, whilst a 3♦ slam try asks for shortages specifically before RKB
- No weak ♣s sign off bid available
- No special bids for 6+♣s + 5♥/♠s nor a dedicated 5–5 majors invite, so GF hands bid 3x naturally instead of going by an enquiry
2♦
(any)
interference defence2♥
natural, F1, 4+ ♥s2♠
4♠, natural, expect 0–2 ♥ support3♦
NF3♥
NF, 6+ suit, invitational3♠
invitational4♣
splinter, ♠ slam try4♦
vague, last train like ♦ slam try4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB for ♠s
2NT
minimum, 0–2 ♥ support, not 4♠s3♣
GF relay, same responses but minimum hands3♦
♣ stopper, 0–2 ♥ support, not 4♠s3♥
Hx ♥ support, NO ♣ stopper, not 4♠s3NT
♠ stopper, NO ♣ stopper, xx ♥ support or worse, not 4♠s
3♦
NF3♥
NF, 6+ ♥s3♠
GF, 5–5 majors (should give up with an invite v.s. minimum)4♣
splinter, ♦ slam try4♦
vague, last train like ♦ slam try4♥
to play4♠
rare, Kickback RKB for ♥s4NT
quantitative
3♣
artificial, 3 card ♥ support, maybe 4♠s3♦
NF, invitational, 4♥s only3♠
natural 4–3–6–0, unlikely maximum if opening 1♦ with 6–4 max
3♥
NF, invitational, 5+ ♥s3♠
cue bid for ♥s3NT
to play4♣
cue bid for ♥s4♦
♦ slam try, last train like4♥
to play4♠
Kickback RKB for ♥s4NT
quantitative
3♦
maximum, ♣ stopper, 0–2 ♥ support, not 4♠s3♥
6♥s, forcing, asks for doubleton support3♠
no support, stop ask3NT
no support, ♠ stop
3♠
stop ask (possibly 5–5 majors)3NT
to play4♦
♦ slam try, last train like4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s (bid 3♥ forcing to play in ♥s)4NT
quantitative
3♥
maximum, Hx ♥ support, NO ♣ stopper, not 4♠s3♠
GF, 5–5 majors (would assume ♠ stop if looking for 3NT)4NT
quantitative
3♠
maximum, splinter, 4 card ♥ support3NT
maximum, ♠ stopper, NO ♣ stopper, xx ♥ support or worse, not 4♠s4♠
5–5 majors, gambling on 3 card support or good 5–2 fit
4♣
maximum, splinter, 4 card ♥ support4♦
minimum, ♣ splinter, 4 card ♥ support4♥
minimum, ♠ splinter, 4 card ♥ support
2♠
natural, F1, 4+ ♠s, shorter ♥s2NT
minimum, 0–2 ♠ support3♣
GF relay, same responses but minimum hands3♦
♣ stopper, 0–2 ♠ support3♥
natural, 4♥s3♠
Hx ♠ support, NO ♣ stopper3NT
♥ stopper, NO ♣ stopper, xx ♠ support or worse4NT
quantitative
3♦
NF3♥
NF, 6–5 majors (start with 2♥ when 5–5)3♠
NF, 6+ ♠s4♣
splinter, ♦ slam try4♦
vague, last train like ♦ slam try4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s4♠
to play4NT
Kickback RKB for ♠s (use GF relay for a last ditch quantitative 4NT)
3♣
artificial, 3 card ♠ support3♦
NF, invitational, 4♠s only3♥
cue bid for ♠s3♠
NF, invitational, 5+ ♠s3NT
to play4♣
cue bid for ♠s4♦
♦ slam try, last train like4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s4♠
to play4NT
RKB for ♠s
3♦
maximum, ♣ stopper, 0–2 ♠ support3♥
stop ask3♠
6♠s, forcing, asks for doubleton support3NT
no support, unknown ♥ stop
3NT
to play4♦
♦ slam try, last train like4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s4♠
to play4NT
quantitative
3♥
natural, maximum, 4♥s3♠
maximum, Hx ♠ support, NO ♣ stopper3NT
maximum, ♥ stopper, NO ♣ stopper, xx ♠ support or worse4♣
maximum, ♣ splinter, 4 card ♠ support4♦
maximum, ♥ splinter, 4 card ♠ support4♥
minimum, ♥ splinter, 4 card ♠ support4♠
minimum, ♣ splinter, 4 card ♠ support
2NT
♦ support or tolerance, constructive invite plus, no major interest3♣
sub-minimum, up to bad 11hcp, no game versus invite3♦
sign offany
stopper showing4♦
GF, last train like slam try4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s
3♦
minimum, 11–12 hcp (maybe flattish / bad 13 hcp), no game versus inviteany
stopper showing4♦
GF, last train like slam try4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s4NT
quantitative
3♥♠
stopper showing, game interest, includes 7♦–4♥/♠ shape3NT
natural4♦
extreme shape, e.g. 8–2–2–1
4♣
cue, ♦ slam try4♥♠
raise natural, no other major stop5♣♦
natural, no 4 card major support
4NT
quantitative
3NT
maximum, natural, something in both majors4♣
7♦–4♣, extras4♦
♦ slam try4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s4♠
cue, likely missing ♥ control4NT
RKB for ♦s, has ♥ control
4NT
Double Fit RKB Kickback
4♦
1–1–8♦–3♣, ~3–4 Control Points, too weak for 1♣, unsuitable for 4♦/5♦4♥
Redwood RKB for ♦s4♠
cue, likely missing ♥ control4NT
RKB for ♦s, has ♥ control
4♥
fragment, 1–3–8♦–1, ~3–4 Control Points, too weak for 1♣, unsuitable for 4♦/5♦4♠
cue, likely missing ♥ control4NT
RKB for ♦s, has ♥ control
4♠
fragment, 3–1–8♦–1, ~3–4 Control Points, too weak for 1♣, unsuitable for 4♦/5♦
3♣
natural, GF, 6+ suit3♦
natural, waiting3♥♠
stopper showing3NT
natural4♣
good ♣ support, likely lacking major controls4♦
RKB for ♣s4♥♠
void splinter, extras, 3+ Control Points, no other major control, e.g. xx/-/AKxxxx/KQ10xx
3♦
preempt3♥
natural major, GF, 6+ suit3♠
stopper showing3NT
natural4♣
natural, 5 carder likely4♦
natural, nothing better to bid4♥
natural, some support4♠
Kickback RKB for ♥s4NT
♠ void5♣
void splinter, 4+ Control Points, no other major control, e.g. xxx/AQxx/AKxxxx/-5♦
long strong suit
3♠
natural major, GF, 6+ suit3NT
natural4♣
natural, 5 carder4♦
natural, nothing better to bid4♥
cue bid for ♠, note 6♠–5♥ responder hands can start with a 2♠ bid4NT
RKB for ♠s5♣
void splinter, 4+ Control Points, no other major control, e.g. AQxx/xxx/AKxxxx/-5♦
long strong suit
3NT
to play4♣
extreme shape, e.g. 6♦–5♣–2–04♦
extreme shape, e.g. 8♦–3–1–14♥♠
extreme shape, e.g. 7♦–4♥/♠–2–0
4♣
RKB for ♦s4♦
preempt4♥♠
to play4NT
Blackwood5♣♦
to play
2♦–(X)
XX
penalty interest3♦
competitiveothers
system on, ignore double
2♦–(2x)
Pass
nothing specialX
negative3♦
competitivenew-suit
2 level NF, 3 level forcingcue
forcing, ♦ supportjump-cue
splinter, ♦ support
2♦–(3x/4x)
X
negativenew-suit
natural, forcing
2♦–2♥+–(2NT+)
X
penalty, of 4th position free bid
2♦–2♥♠–(X)
XX
penalty interest (e.g. 4 card other major)Pass
as 2NT, without stop2NT
as system, but stop implicationothers
system on
2♦–2♥–(2S)
X
penalty interestothers
system on
2♦–(P)–P–(2x)
X
takeout, by either partner
2♦–(P)–P–(3x)
X
penalty, by either partner
2♥♠ Weak Openings
1st/2nd style
The style is to use a slightly narrower (more constructive) but frequent hand strength range without the drop in
frequency of 2/3 top honour requirements.
- ~7–10, 6 card suit
- 6 cards when vulnerable, but can optionally play mixed 5 or 6 cards NV
- relatively constructive, no more than one Ace weaker than opening hand
- Good 10 hcp hands consider opening 1♥♠ where good, e.g. beware 2 aces, ~Kxx+ in the side major or a singleton
- suit quality 1 top honour: Axxxxx+, Kxxxxx+, Q10xxxx+
- even with sensible shape and 1 trump honour, consider if too defensive
- extreme shape 6–4/6–5 with long 4/5 card minor possible, max 9 hcp
- beware downgrade wasted values e.g. Qx/KQxxxx/xxx/xx
3rd/4th style
- ~5–11, Undisciplined in 3rd, 5–4, 5–5, 6 card poor quality, possibly 4 card other major
- ~10–13 in 4th
Responding
- 3 level forcing bid must be made to play game in the other major as jump new suits are control asking bids
2♥ Opening Responses
2♥
weak two2♠
NF, natural, either weak 6+ ♠ short ♥s OR invitational strength 5+ ♠ short ♥s3♣♦
partial fit (Hx) + maximum3♠
raise with fit (xxx+) mandatory
2NT
puppet to 3♣, various with at least one of ♥s or ♣s:-
♥ game try with ♣s-
♥ slam try, shortness ask-
♥ slam try, splinter with ♠ shortage-
♣ sign off-
♣ slam try-
♣s + other GF two suiter (♣s + ♠s, or ♣s + ♦s)3♣
relayedPass
♣ sign off3♦
shortness ask, ♥ support, typically slam try3♥
minimum, no shortness3♠
♠ singleton/void, control bid continuations3NT
maximum, no shortness4♣
♣ singleton/void4♦
♦ singleton/void4♥
1 loser ♥ suit, no shortness
3♥
♥ game try, ♣ values3♠
natural, ♣s and ♠s, 5–5+ usually3NT
likely doubleton ♥ support, willing to play 3NT4♣
natural, forcing, ♣ slam try4♦
natural, forcing, ♣s and ♦s, longer ♣s4♥
delayed splinter ♥ support, short ♠
3♣
♦ transfer, invitational plus, 6+ cards or 5 cards and ♥ support3♦
none of the below, often minimal/misfitting3♥
minimum, good ♥, avoiding 3♦ contract3♠
♦ fit (xxx+), ♠ stopper, maximum3NT
♦ fit, ♣ stopper, maximum4♣
♦ fit, singleton ♣, maximum4♦
♦ fit, nothing in ♣/♠, maximum4♥
self-sufficient ♥ suit, maximum
3♦
♥ transfer, invitational plus3♥
weak limit raise4♥
extreme shape e.g. 6–5, x/A109xxx/KJxxx/x
3♠
natural, GF, (passed hands fit jump)3NT
to play, non-correctable4♣
Preempt RKB4♦
control asking bid, (passed hands fit jump)4♥
to play4♠
control asking bid, (passed hands fit jump)4NT
♣ substitute control asking bid5♣♦
to play
2♠ Opening Responses
2♠
weak two2NT
puppet to 3♣, various with at least one of ♠s or ♣s:-
♠ game try with ♣s-
♠ slam try, shortness ask-
♠ slam try, splinter with ♥ shortage-
♣ sign off-
♣ slam try-
♣s + other GF two suiter (♣s + ♥s, or ♣s + ♦s)3♣
relayedPass
♣ sign off3♦
shortness ask, ♠ support, typically slam try3♥
♥ singleton3♠
minimum, no shortness3NT
maximum, no shortness4♣♦
♣/♦ singleton/void4♥
void ♥4♠
1 loser ♠ suit, no shortness
3♥
natural, forcing, ♣s and ♥s, 5–5+ usually3♠
♠ game try, ♣ values3NT
likely doubleton ♠ support, willing to play 3NT4♣
natural, forcing, ♣ slam try4♦
natural, forcing, ♣s and ♦s, longer ♣s4♥
delayed splinter, short ♥
3♣
♦ transfer, assumed invitational, maybe weak - sign off 4♦ over max responses, 6+ cards or 5 cards and ♠ support3♦
none of the below, often minimal/misfitting3♥
♦ fit (xxx+), ♥ stopper, maximum3♠
minimum, good ♠, avoiding 3♦ contract3NT
♦ fit, ♣ stopper, maximum4♣
♦ fit, singleton ♣, maximum4♦
♦ fit, nothing in ♣/♥, maximum4♠
self-sufficient ♠ suit, maximum
3♦
♥ transfer, 6 good or 7 cards, assumed invitational, primarily ♥ not NT interest3♥
nothing special3♠
unlikely, ♥ suit should be better on misfit4♥
some judged non-minimum fit
3♥
♠ invitational raise3♠
weak limit raise3NT
to play, non-correctable4♣
Preempt RKB4♦♥
control asking bids, (passed hands fit jump)4♠
to play4NT
♣ substitute control asking bid5♣♦
to play
NV 1st/2nd 5 or 6 card Extension
Adjustments to playing mixed 5/6 card major weak two bids in 1st/2nd position non-vulnerable only.
Still ~7–10, rarely 6 hcp if 5–5 shape. Differences to the standard 6 card only definition:
- 5 card good suit possible and the usual 6 card suit
- 5 carder should have 2 honours (top honours unless excellent spot cards)
- 5 carder still unbalanced 5–4+
- 5–4–2–2 hands downgrade unsupported side Q/J honours, a side A or K is more useful
- 5 carder requires a shortage or a maximum 9–10 hcp
Responding:
- except for the 2NT ask bid, same responses, so no ♣ signoff and no ♣ suit slam investigation beyond control asking bids then a punt
- after 2NT the 4♣♦ ♥/♠ slam tries allow slam bidding in either major after assessing the 5 vs 6 card major situation
- except other major sign off is to play, the opening major is implicitly agreed unless slam try in other major
2♥♠–2NT
Ogust variant3♣
any 5 carder3♦
ask3♥
minimum3♠
maximum, 0–2 card other major3NT
maximum + 3 card other major support
3M
sign off4♣
♥ slam try4♦
♠ slam try4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB
3♦
minimum, 6 carder3oM
5 cards, forcing3M
sign off4♣
♥ slam try4♦
♠ slam try4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB
3♥
medium (hcp or bad suit issues), 6 carder4♣
♥ slam try4♦
♠ slam try4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB
3♠
maximum, 6 carder + 0–2 card other major4♣
♥ slam try4♦
♠ slam try4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB
3NT
maximum, 6 carder + 3 card other major support4♣
♥ slam try4♦
♠ slam try4♥♠
to play4NT
RKB
4♥♠
7 carder, bad suit (not worth 3♥♠ opening)
2♥♠ interference
2♥♠–(X)
XX
♣ transfer, no major interest, any strength2NT
system roughly on, only hands with ♠ support (game try with ♣s or slam try)3♣–3NT
system roughly on, but transfers assumed to be escaping or fit non-jump competitiveP/X
later double penalty4♣♦
fit jumps4♥♠
to play
2♥–(2S)
2NT–3♥
system on3♠
stopper ask4♣♦
fit jumps
2♥♠–(3x)
newSuit
natural, forcing by unpassed hand
2♥♠–(2♠/3♣♦♥)
2♥♠–any–(3x)
when invite plus and 4th hand steps in at 3 levelPass
minimumX
maximum range preempt, 3+ trumps, penalty interestother
maximum
2♥♠–P–(P)–(2♠/3♣♦♥)–P–P
2NT Opening
- 19–20 NT
- roughly same shape as 1NT Opening
- unlikely to open a reasonable 5–4/6 card minor for fear of missing slam
Responding:
- one major: 3 level transfer, unless it's a slam try (Lissabon in that case)
- major + minor hand: 3 level transfer to major first
- 4–4 majors: muppet stayman
- 3 card major + NO 5 card major: muppet stayman option (NOT 4–3–3–3)
- 5♥ + 4♠: transfer then bid 3NT (so stronger hand can play 4♠), or artificial 4♣ with a slam try
- 5♠–4♥: muppet stayman then 4♥ over 3♦ response or artificial 4♣♦ with slam try/slam force
- 5♥–5♠+ both majors: transfer to ♥ first, then 4♣♦ are special artificial bids
- both minors: 3♠
- 3 suiter: transfer to a 5 card major otherwise muppet stayman, then prefer show 5 card minor over 4–4 majors if slammish
- slam try single suiters: 4♣♦♥♠ Lissabon, but maybe use 3♦♥ transfer with self EKB hand
2NT
(any)
2NT interference defence3♣
Muppet Stayman3♦
♥ transfer, 5+ cards, maybe 4♠s3♥
♠ transfer, 5+ cards, not 4♥s3♠
minors, 5–4+, often slam try3NT
to play4♣
♥s, Lissabon slam try4♦
♠s, Lissabon slam try4♥
♣s, Lissabon slam try4♠
♦s, Lissabon slam try4NT
quantitative5♣♦
to play5♠
invitation to 6NT, asks for any 5 card suit5NT
quantitative
2NT–3♣
- Muppet Stayman (modified puppet variant), with 3♦ response being low information compared to normal puppet variants,
similar to 4 card stayman
- Finds 5–3 or 4–4 major fits
- Includes responder having 5♠s–4♥s, (otherwise responder transfers with a 5 card major - 4♠s–5♥s or 5–5), with
the 3NT response helping such hands recognise there is no fit
3♦
no 5 card major, 3+♠s or 4+♥s (fit exists opposite 5♠s + 4♥s)3♥
artificial maybe 4♠s, maybe no 4 card major just wants to play 3NT, not ♥s, maybe minor slam try module3♠
4♠s (gives away opener's major position)3NT
to play4♣♦
slam try, 5 card minor assumedothers
2NT Auto RKB module
4♥
♠ slam try4♠
to play4NT
♠ RKB
3NT
natural, no ♠s
3♠
4♥s only3NT
not 4♥s (unknown whether 4♠s)4♣
catchall bid with ♥ support4♦
retransfer4♥
to play, declare
4♥
fast arrival, poor trump quality or 2 keycards
3NT
4–4 majors, game values4♣
exact slam invite, both majors 5♠–4♥s4♦
negative, no slam interest4♥♠
trumps set, slam try accept
4♦
slam force, 5♠–4♥4♥
5♠s + 4♥s, game values4NT
quantitative, maybe major(s) 4–x/4–45♣♦
accept, both majors with slight preference5M
accept, side 4 card major6NT
accept
3♥
5 card major3♠
♥ slam try, maybe prelude to RKB3NT
to play4♣♦
natural 5+ minor slam try, no major fitothers
2NT Auto RKB module
4♥
to play4♠
EKB, in theory, beware potential confusion4NT
quantitative
3♠
5 card major3NT
to play4♣♦
natural 5+ minor slam try, no major fitothers
2NT Auto RKB module
4♥
♠ slam try, maybe prelude to RKB4♠
weaker hand, probably 2 keycards4NT
good hand, 3+ KC, ♠ RKB
4♠
to play4NT
quantitative
3NT
2♠s + 3♥s or 2–2 majors, no major fit possible v.s 5♠s + 4♥s
2NT–3♦
- ♥ transfer, 5+ cards, maybe 4♠s
- maybe self EKB with some void skipping Lissabon
- maybe minor second suit, limited OR slam try+
- maybe both majors 5♥–4♠/5–5+, limited OR slam try+
- no break to the other major with 5 cards and no fit, so possible to miss a 5♠–3♠ fit when responder has 5 ♥s
3♥
normal transfer completion3♠
artificial relay, to play 3NT (3NT allows opener to bid ♠s) OR side minor suit3NT
forcedPass
to play 3NT4♣
5♥s and 4+ ♣s, slam try or maybe weaker 5–54♦
♣ last train, no ♥ interest4♥
limited, 5♥s + 5♣s4♠
artificial 5♣s extra length, set as trumps4NT
negative, 2 KC likely5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
4NT
artificial slam invite, only 5–4 ♥s and ♣s5♣
to play5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
5♣
limited, prefers ♣ game
4♥
semi-positive preference, NF4NT
♥ RKB5x
cue, rare, probably void5NT
pick a small slam, 5♣s
others
2NT Auto RKB module
4♦
5♥s and 4+ ♦s, slam try4♥
semi-positive xxx+ preference (not ♦ last train)4NT
♥ RKB5x
cue, rare, probably void5NT
pick a small slam, 5♦s
others
2NT Auto RKB module
4♥
5–5+ ♥s and ♦s, NF, limited4NT
natural double stops in other suits, suggests NT5♦
to play
4♥
♥ accept, 3+ cards
3NT
artificial, 5♥s + 4♠s, NF can stop here in 3NT4♣
slam try plus, 5♥–4/5♠ majors4♦
negative, no slam interest, but do have 3♠s4♥
catchall no fit4♠
to play, 5 ♠s, but limited slam try4NT
♠ RKB
4♥
3♥s, slam try accept4♠
4♠s, slam try accept4NT
2♥s and 2♠s5NT
quantitative (pick a small slam makes no sense given distribution known)
4♦
game values 5–5 majors4♥
to play4♠
EKB, normally use Lissabon with good suit, but has no way to 4 level auto EKB4NT
quantitative5♣♦
EKB5NT
pick a small slam
3♠
doubleton transfer break, 2 top 3 HHx (careful with only 19-20 NT) or any 4 card+ support3NT
serious (unlikely to want to play 3NT now)4♣♠
cue4♦
retransfer4♥
to play, responder declares4NT
RKB5x
EKB
3NT
3–4♥–3–3 transfer break4♣♠
cue4♦
retransfer (opener very defined, last train makes no sense)4♥
to play, responder declares4NT
RKB5x
EKB
4♣♦
doubleton transfer break, 2 top 3 HHx (careful with only 19-20 NT) or any 4 card+ support4♦
retransfer (hand too limited for last train)4♥
to play, responder declares4♠
cue4NT
RKB5x
EKB
2NT–3♥
- ♠ transfer, 5+ cards, not 4♥s
- maybe self EKB with some void skipping Lissabon
- maybe minor second suit, limited OR slam try+
- NOT BOTH Majors (5–4/ 4–5 / 5–5), 5♠ + 4♥ use muppet, 5–5 use ♥ transfer
- no break to the other major with 5 cards and no fit, so possible to miss a 5♥–3♥ fit when responder has 5 ♠s
3♠
normal transfer completionPass
weak, to play3NT
play suggestion, 5♠s4♣
5♠s and 4+ ♣s, slam try or maybe weaker 5–54♦
♣ last train, no ♠ interest4♥
artificial 5♣s extra length, set as trumps4♠
cue4NT
negative, 2 KC likely5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
4♠
limited, 5–5 ♠s and ♣s4NT
slam invitation, only 5–4 ♠s and ♣s5♣
to play5x
auto ♣ RKB responses
5♣
limited, prefers ♣ game
4♠
semi-positive xxx+ preference, NF4NT
♠ RKB5x
cue, rare, probably void5NT
pick a small slam, 5♣s
others
2NT Auto RKB module
4♦
5♠s and 4+ ♦s, slam try hand4♥
♦ last train, no ♠ interest4♠
artificial 5♦s extra length, set as trumps4NT
negative, 2 KC likely5x
auto ♦ RKB responses
4NT
slam invitation, only 5–4 ♠s and ♦s5♦
to play5x
auto ♦ RKB responses
5♦
limited, prefers ♦ game
4♠
semi-positive xxx+ preference4NT
♠ RKB5x
cue, rare, probably void5NT
pick a small slam, 5♦s
others
2NT Auto RKB module
4♥
artificial, 5–5+ ♠s + ♦s, limited hand4♠
to play4NT
natural double stops in other suits, suggests NT5♦
to play
4♠
to play5♣♦♥
EKB4NT
quantitative5NT
pick a small slam
3NT
4♠–3–3–3 transfer break4♣♦
cue4♥
retransfer (opener very defined, last train makes no sense)4♠
to play, responder declares5x
EKB
4♣♦♥
doubleton transfer break, 2 top 3 HHx+ (careful with only 19-20 NT) or any 4 card+ support4♦
cue4♥
retransfer4♠
to play, responder declares4NT
RKB5x
EKB
2NT–3♠
minors, 5–4+, often slam try
3NT
good major stoppers, limited minor interest4♣♦
4+ cards, reasonable for minor game/slam4♥♠
3 card minor, Lissabon, good honours for minor suit slam4NT
3–3 minors, fitting honours in the minors
2NT–4♣
♥s, Lissabon slam try
4♦
relay, slam try accept, last train like (3KC, Kx+), may still pass over 4♥4♥
negative4♠
control bid, good support / keycards4NT
RKB5♣♦
control bid, good support / keycards, ♠ weakness5♥
quality ask
2NT–4♦
♠s, Lissabon slam try
4♥
relay, slam try accept, last train like, may still pass over 4♠4♠
negative4NT
RKB5♣♦♥
cue bid5♠
quality ask
2NT–4♥
♣s, Lissabon slam try, one suited
any = 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
2NT–4♠
♦s, Lissabon slam try, one suited
any = 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
Minor slam tries module
After muppet stayman and responder voluntarily continues over 3NT, responder may have ONE OR BOTH minors (they may have
only 3 cards in a major, e.g. 3–1–5–4). Note 5–5 minors with a 3 card major is awkward, but should probably respond
2NT–3♠ to show both minors.
3NT
various (would be passed without a minor slam try)4♣
one 4 card minor OR 4–4(5–4) both minors4♦
ask, interest with a 4 card minor4♥
4♣s, maybe 4–4 minors4♠
4♦s, denies ♣smore
♦ support 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
others
♣ support 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
4♠
4♦s, Lissabonothers
♦ support 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
4♥
5♣s, Lissabonothers
2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
4♠
5♦s, Lissabonothers
2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
4NT
bad slam hand, or maybe 3–4–3–3
4♦
5♦s4♥
5♣s, 2♦s, i.e. (4–2)–2–5more
♣ support 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
others
♦ support 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
4♥
5♣s + 3♦s (lower bid, better ♦ tolerance)4♠
artificial, 5♦s, ♦ trumps set (use other "normal" bids with ♣ support)more
♦ support 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
others
♣ support 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
4♠
5♣s + 0–2 ♦s (higher bid, bad ♦ holding)others
♣ support 2NT Lissabon Auto RKB
4NT
quantitative
2NT interference
2NT–(X)
showing MajorsXX
game values3♣♦
NF, natural3M
stopper cue bid
2NT–(3C)
showing majorsX
showing ♣3♦
NF, natural3M
stopper cue bid
2NT–3♣–(X)
Pass
to play with some support from partner
XX = by responder, rescueXX
to play interest3♦
no ♣ interest, no major3M
5 card major, if want to show it
2NT–3♦♥–(X)
Pass
doubleton support
XX = retransfer by responder
3M = to playXX
to play interest
3♣♦ Openings
Constructive preempts in 1st/2nd usually 6 cards, good chance to play 3NT.
- Good suit, happy 3NT with some fit and side stoppers
- Suit expected to run with 0–1 loser opposite Hx (on normal percentage breaks) OR 1–2 losers if have side entry (Ace or King).
E.g. AK109xx with no side entry OR KQ109xx, KJ109xx with side A/K
- 6 or 7 cards does not matter, run potential and entries v.s. Hx does matter
- New 4 level suits responses are artificial
- 4♣ Preempt RKB means that 4NT is a substitute control asking bid
- After a double there are transfer bid, which need not be that strong, primarily lead directing and often
with tolerance for partner's suit. Breaking the transfer would show a fit
3♣
(Dbl)
P/X
later double penaltyXX
♦ transfer3♦
♥ transfer3♥
♠ transfer3♠
good ♣ raise4♣
competitive ♣ raise, maybe no top honour4♦
Preempt RKBGame
to play, control asking bids OFF4NT
quantitative
3♦
forcing, any 5 card major asking for 3 card support. (FNJ by passed hands).3♥♠
short in that suit and 3 card other major support (so stronger hand can play)3NT
no 3 card major4♦
♦ void, 3–3–0–74♥
♦ singleton, 3–3–1–6
3♥♠
natural, forcing 6+ card suit. (FNJ by passed hands)3NT
to play4♣
obstructive4♦
Preempt RKB4♥♠
control asking bid4NT
♦ substitute control asking bid5♣♦
to play
3♦
(Dbl)
P/X
later double penaltyXX
♥ transfer3♥
♠ transfer3♠
♣ transfer4♣
good ♦ raise4♦
competitive ♦ raise, maybe no top honourGame
to play, control asking bids OFF4NT
quantitative
3♥♠
forcing, maybe 5 only cards3NT
to play4♣
Preempt RKB4♦
obstructive4♥♠
control asking bid4NT
♣ substitute control asking bid5♣♦
to play
3♣♦
(overcall)
NewSuit
natural, GFGame
NF, control asking bids OFFX
penalty, all positions4NT
quantitative
3♣♦–(P)–P–(X)–P–(P)
XX
two suit escape (e.g. 6–5 or 6–6)NewSuit
escape
3♥♠ Openings
- P/T integrity required (in 1st/2nd), max 1 outside A/K, no 4 card side Major
- when side Ace, not 2/3 top honours in 1st/2nd (try to open 1HS)
- 1 top honour, reasonable points or shape in second or if VUL
- New 4 level suits responses are artificial (except major bids that could not force at the 3 level)
- 4♣ Preempt RKB means that 4NT is a substitute control asking bid
- After a double there are transfer bid, which need not be that strong, primarily lead directing and often
with tolerance for partner's suit. Breaking the transfer would show a fit
3♥
(Dbl)
P/X
later double penaltyXX
♠ transfer3♠
♣ transfer4♣
♦ transfer4♦
good ♥ raise4♥
competitive ♥ raise, maybe no top honour4♠
to play, control asking bids OFF4NT
RKB
3♠
natural, forcing3NT
to play4♣
Preempt RKB4♦♠
control asking bid4♥
to play4NT
♣ substitute control asking bid5♣♦
to play5♥♠
quality ask
3♠
(Dbl)
P/X
later double penaltyXX
♣ transfer4♣
♦ transfer4♦
♥ transfer (unlikely to break this one!)4♥
good ♠ raise4♠
competitive ♠ raise, maybe no top honour4NT
RKB
3NT
to play4♣
Preempt RKB4♦
control asking bid4♥♠
to play4NT
♣ substitute control asking bid5♣♦
to play5♥♠
quality ask
3♥♠
(overcall)
NewSuit
natural, GFGame
NFX
penalty, all positions
3♥♠–(P)–P–(X)–P–(P)
XX
two suit escape (e.g. 6–5 or 6–6)NewSuit
escape
3NT Opening
In 1st/2nd:
- Good 4♥♠ opening
- P/T integrity for the 4 level
- Semi-solid+ suit
- Exactly 2 or 3 keycards (1) AK trumps (2) A or K trumps + side Ace (3) AK trumps + side ace
3NT
4♣
slam try ask, further cue bids may fish for a void4M
natural, 2 keycards4♦
♥ + 3 keycards4NT
♠ + 3 keycards
4♦
extra trump length (8 cards) ask, further cue bids may fish for a void4M
nopestep1
(4oM) 2 keycardsstep2
(4NT) 3 keycards
4♥
Pass or Correct4♠
to play (typically knows partner's suit is ♠s)
3NT
In 3rd/4th:
Note 3NT Alternatives
4♣♦ Openings
- Normal distributional minor preempts, must have a singleton/void
- Major games to play
- As 4♣–4♦ is Preempt RKB, a 4NT response is a substitute control asking bid
- 5 level new suits are control asking bids if there is not a lower one available
4♣
4♦
Preempt RKB4♥♠
to play4NT
substitute ♦ control asking bid5♣
to play5♦
EKB (already have a ♦ control ask)5♥♠
control asking bids
4♦
4♥♠
to play4NT
"quantitative" (i.e. have you got 3 CPs?)5♦
to play5♣♥♠
control asking bids
4♥ 4♠ 5♣ 5♦ Openings
- P/T integrity required (in 1st/2nd), rare distributions, max 1 outside A/K.
- Cannot show a better suit than partner's beyond punting a new suit slam
- Trumps assumed, so 4NT is a substitute control asking bid over 4♥
- New suits over game level openings are otherwise specific control asks.
4♥
broken preempt (not semi-solid+ or only 1 keycard if semi-solid+, so unsuitable for 3NT opening)4♠
control asking bid4NT
RKB5♣♦
control asking bids5♥
quality ask5♠
EKB5NT
no, just use RKB6x
to play7x
to play
4♠
broken preempt (not semi-solid+ or only 1 keycard if semi-solid+, so unsuitable for 3NT opening)4NT
RKB5♣♦♥
control asking bids5♠
quality ask5NT
no, just use RKB6x
to play7x
to play
5♣♦
5♦♥♠
control asking bids6x
to play7x
to play
Control Asking Bids Over Preempts
Specific suit asks:
- NT = King
- 1step = rubbish
- 2steps = singleton
- 3steps = Ace
- 4steps = void
4NT Opening Specific Ace Ask
4NT
5♣
no ace5♦♥♠
specific ace5NT
2 aces6♣
♣ specific ace
Note, 4NT alternatives
Competitive Auctions
We Overcall or X/XX Summary
- Generally based more on shape than exact strength
- Usually 5 cards, 4 cards may have leading value occasionally, but normally we only bid if partner passed already and
the suit is very good, plus compensating extra values
- 1 level light major suit overcalls, ~(7)8+ hcp and sensible suits or unbalanced with low hcp or VUL
- 1♦ overcalls are likely 10+ reasonable opening bids (they are not very preemptive after all, even if lead-directing)
- 2 level minor overcalls are fine on "bad" 5 carders e.g. AJxxx+ iff partner not passed and have enough values / other suit tolerance
- 2 level minor overcalls should not be less than an opening hand, expect partner to look for 3NT
- Responsive doubles to 3♠
- 2♣ Advancer's Relay Strength Ask by advancer after 1♥/1♠ overcall due to wide range
- Einar cue bid by overcaller showing no good rebid or extras
- XX of major overcall is 10+ values with exactly doubleton support
- X by advancer is values ~(9)10+, maybe poor support
- Jump 2♥♠ new suit is ~10–12 and good 6 card suit
- Jump 3x new suit is invitational and good 6 card suit
- Simple cue bids are varied in meaning, artificial - strength ask, HCR, even switch-transfer advancing a 2♣♦ overcall
- Overcaller responding to transfers and transfer cues: complete with 2 / bad 3 cards, find another bid with less, with
exciting hands bid more
- HCR cue strength depends on other available bids
- 2NT advance of 2x overcall is natural, otherwise 2NT is support showing
- Switch transfers over 2♣♦ overcalls
- Jump cue (3 level) is a mixed raise supporting a major
- Jump cue (3 level) is a splinter supporting a minor
- 3 level raise depends if responder bids a balance or pre-emptive and cooperative
- when opponents have 2 suits a 4th position (sandwich): cue sitting OVER is natural, cue sitting UNDER is Michaels,
2NT better Michaels (6–5 usually) unless there are three unbid suits then unusual
- when opponents bid (1 Major)–(1NT) cue is Michaels
- when opponents bid (1 minor)–(1NT), special case, 2♣ is (5–4) majors, 2♦ is 5–5 majors regardless of minor opened
- when opponents have 2 suits and partner doubles X: advancer's cue when sitting OVER is natural, advancer's cue sitting
UNDER is a general force
- when balancing, e.g. (1♦)–P–(P)–2♦, a cue bid is Michaels, never natural over prepared minor as sitting under
- when a passed hand reopens over 2♠, (1♠)–P–(2♠)–P–(P)–2NT, this special case is 5–4+ minors (would double with ♥s)
- over opponents bid (1♥)–P–(1♠), special case, 2♥ cue is ♠ + minor Michaels (not both minors), 2♠ is still natural cue sitting over
- over opponents bid (1♠)–P–(2♠), special case, 2NT is 5+♥s with 4+ minor
Minimum Level Conversion and Takeout Doubles
- any level takeout doubles then correcting to the cheapest other suit shows a different 2 suiter and not any extras
- reasonable defensive values are required for a takeout double, not some very light overcall - advancer will push to
game with 13+ and invite with ~10–12 on their own suit
- perfect takeout double shapes e.g. 4–4–4–1 maybe light "opening" values, i.e ~10 hcp
- 11 hcp doubles can be 4–4–3–2 without wasted values
- 6–4 major hands can optionally be bid like 5–4 hands after the takeout double.
- 6 major and 4 minor will typically ignore the minor.
- minor X then ELC typically is only both majors, not a minor major
- can include the less common style with ♣s and a major, correcting to a major suggesting long minor and 4 card major
- a jump in the lower suit or forcing to a higher level implies a strong two suiter 5–5+ (that doesn't fit agreed
strength ranges of the main two suiter overcalls)
- concept may also apply to high level bids with limited space like 4NT, e.g. (4♠)–4NT, or a cue bid showing a two
suiter when there are 3 unknown suits
- very strong single suiters are rare, and may need to jump cue bid or double and jump cue bid, or just bid game
Cue Bids and Jump Overcalls Summary
- natural single suiter overcalls are 2 level weak, 3 level weak NV, intermediate VUL
- Michael's and Unusual NT strength is wide ranging vulnerability dependent, NOT mini-maxi style
Two Suiter Overcall Strengths
- Less than strong (not mini-maxi style), with strong defined as 8+PT ~17+ hcp
- Majors have a dedicated jump cue for strong two suiters, others must start with a takeout double
- Spot cards make a difference
- 6–5 shape is great, ~3 hcp better than the equivalent 5–5
- Playing at the 3 level needs better suit quality, especially VUL
- The ♥ + minor 2♠ cue and 2NT force to the 3 level in both suits so need good quality
- The 2NT extra quality accounts for us having the lowest ranked suits, so less likely to win the auction
- HCP outside your suits unless Ace or King have very little value - we want offensive hands that
can make a game opposite very little
Hand examples:
- Majors showing NV: most aggressive ~6+, min KJxxx (Q9|J10)xxx
- Majors showing VUL: ~9+, also a reasonable 2 level overcall, min K109xx AQxxx
- ♠ + minor showing NV: ~9+ values IN the two suits, min KJxxx Jx x AJxxx
- ♠ + minor showing VUL: ~10+ values IN the two suits, better spot cards or more hcp, min KQ10xx AJxxx
- ♥ + minor showing NV: ~10+ values IN the two suits, min QJ10xx AKxxx
- ♥ + minor showing VUL: bit better, 2♥ overcall is often safer, utter min x AQxxx Qx Kxxxx
- 2NT unusual NV vs. VUL: extra aggressive where sacrifice suggestion sensible, e.g. 6–5 Kxxxx Qxxxxx
- 2NT unusual NV vs. NV: ~10+ values IN the two suits, min QJ10xx AKxxx
- 2NT unusual VUL: AJ109x KQxxx
After minor openings:
- cue of a prepared minor is natural
- cue of a natural minor is a non-strong majors hand
- over a prepared/short minor bid 1♠ with both majors (unless strong majors)
- jump cue is strong majors
- simple overcall with ♠ + other minor (or both majors against a prepared/short minor)
- weak (3 level VUL intermediate) jumps otherwise
- 2NT is unusual
After major openings:
- 2NT is unusual
- cue for major + other minor
- ♠ cue is more specific about suit strengths and matches with the 3♣ special overcall – (♥ + ♦ limited) OR (♥ + ♣ strong)
- (1S)–3♣ is special, a rare 2 suiter showing bid instead of single suiter jump overcall
- weak (3 level VUL intermediate) jumps otherwise
We Open they Interfere Summary
- 2 level simple bids are natural, F1 freebids, 8+ good suit or typical 9/10+, less than invite AFTER SUIT
- 1NT/2x simple bids are transfers AFTER TAKEOUT
- 2 level new suit jumps are weak after suit or takeout
- a 1-under (3M–1) jump is mixed for a major
- other jumps are priority fit or splinter
- 4♣♦ major slam tries AFTER MAJOR OPENING + JUMP PREEMPT
- Cue bids exactly invitational HCR OR minimum game hand / limited defensive values / marginal balanced game hands, AFTER MAJOR OPENING
- 1m–(2♣) then Stayman/NT system on AFTER MINOR OPENING
- 3 level jump raise is preemptive ~0–6 if a 1-under jump mixed raise is available, else mixed replacement AFTER SUIT or TAKEOUT
- 2NT limit+ raise, only stop if judge wasted values and minimum, implies likely to penalise opponents if we don't play the contract AFTER MAJOR OPENING, AFTER MAJOR TAKEOUT
- 2NT is artificial various, except 1♦–(2♣), AFTER MINOR TAKEOUT or MINOR OVERCALL
- 1♣/1♦–(2 level jump) use the Lebensohl scheme
- 1♣/1♦–(1NT) use normal constructive weak 1NT defence as we have no well defined suit
- 1♥/♠–(1NT) 2♣ is a good 8–10 raise, 2♦ artificial 5–3 other major with 3 card support, 2M natural, 2NT usual limit+ raise system
- Transfer bids after 1♣ opening and 1♥♠ O/C (not just over takeout X like 1♦♥♠ openers)
- Negative doubles to 4♥
- XX after opponent's takeout double varies: doubleton support 6+ for a major, but next suit transfer after minor opening
- Support doubles by opener for partner's 1x major response and weak 2x major response
- X/XX of cue bids of our suit is extra length, but of partner's suit is Stolen bid support showing
4th balancing of 1x openings
- same strengths
- 2NT is natural stronger than X then NT bid, not unusual
- 2 minor cue is always Michaels as sitting under any prepared minor
- 2♥♠ is a standard minimum opening good 6 carder
- slightly more chance of 4 card suit at the 1 level, e.g. AQJ10/Axxx/xxxx/x or avoiding 1NT vulnerable
- 1NT is ~11–15 (maybe 16 over 1♥/♠), use instead of a weak 4 card suit, no stopper guaranteed
- X usual takeout, but lighter ~8+ depending on shape
- jump cue bid is a stopper ask
- 4x jumps are natural
Follow up responses are roughly 1 point more conservative
responding to 4th balancing takeout X
(1D)–P–(P)–X
2♥♠
~11–13 major jump with a 4 card suit, 5 card majors a bit weaker2NT
natural, ~11–143♣♦
~10–13 minor jumps 5 cards
responding to 4th balancing jump bid
- new suits are forcing natural
- cue strong (for passed hand) game try
- raise mixed weaker
- 2NT forcing
responding to 4th balancing 1NT
(1x)–P–(P)–1NT
2♣
range ask staymanic2♦
minimum, no major2♥♠
minimum, major2NT
maximum
Passed hand balancing
- Over (1♥) 1NT is long minor + 4 ♠s
- Over (1♠) 1NT is long minor + ♥s, more likely 5–5 as unlikely to out compete ♠s
- 2NT would be 6–5 lower unbid suits
Law of Total Tricks Bidding
Normal advice about bidding to the level indicated by the law of total tricks applies.
However, re-evaluating hands in any competition or after just one bid from the opponents is important.
Adjust / downgrade:
- flat hands (especially 4–3–3–3!)
- slow values in opponent's suit
- slow values in short side suits (usually harder to setup)
- (partial) misfit indications
- wasted values sat over by opponents
Upgrade influences:
- distributional hands (though you may have added shortness support points already)
- extra trump length
- supporting slow values in your main suit(s), queens and jacks mean more there
- Aces and Kings, these are quick tricks/control cards
- double fit
- super fit, extra length
We Open with Fit and Slam Potential then 4th Hand High Level Interference
- slam is potentially on
- we bid in 1st and 3rd then 4th hand interferes at a high level
- fit found
The primary situation is 1♥♠–2NT, but there's other situations. In summary:
- 1♥♠–2NT–(3x/4x) known major fit and game try plus
- 1♥♠–Splinter–(4x) major support splinter slam try
- 2♦–4♣–(3S/4x) slam try suit set
Continuations in general:
- When 4th hand comes in high unsupported, then always double is penalty
- 3NT by opener is always artificial when the opponents come in high after we have a fit
- See examples in 1♥♠–2NT Invite Plus Interference
3 level rebid available
1♥–(P)–2NT–(3D)
X
penaltyPass
minimum, no control/shortness3♥
suit rebid, minimum often 6 cards, ♦ shortness3♠
extras, cue cooperative, GF, but not above game, unknown if ♦ control4♣
extras, cue cooperative, GF, but not above game, unknown if ♦ control3NT
extras, ♦ honour control, serious 3NT4♥
better hand, ♦ shortness
3NT bid available
1♥–(P)–2NT–(3S)
X
penalty3NT
extras, ♠ control, serious 3NT, unknown if shortage or honour control4♣♦
extras, cue cooperative, GF, but not above game, unknown if ♠ control4♥
minimum, ♠ controlPass
no ♠ control
No 3NT bid available
Pass used to show a control in the overcalled suit.
1♥–(P)–2NT–(4D)
X
good values, penaltyPass
♦ control implication
X = extra strength ask (last train like), slam try4♥
minimum, no control, assumes we will always compete to game
HCR cue bids and 2NT Raise in Competition
Either when we open and 2nd position overcalls, or when we overcall and later advance the bidding, there is often a
choice between a HCR cue bid and a 2NT support bid.
This mostly applies to 1♥♠ openings or overcalls, but (1♣)–1♦ is also possible.
A 2NT bid is natural in very few places - only when we overcall at the 2 level, 3rd hand passes and advancer bids 2NT. As 3rd
hand has passed it can be reasonable to assume we can have the combined values for 3NT.
The meanings applied when we open v.s. overcall are different:
When We Open
When we open 1♥♠ a 2NT bid after competition from 2nd hand is always support showing. What's the difference between
a HCR and 2NT? Contrary to the common style of distinguishing 3 vs 4+ card raising we currently experiment with:
- HCR is invitational or minimum game hand, may stop at 3M. Maybe too defensive or weak to compete above 4M. Maybe
interested in 3NT - defensive/balanced.
- The 2NT bid is almost game forcing (only minimum opener with honours sat under overcaller may avoid game), opponent's cannot
play undoubled
The differences depend on length in the opponent's suit, strength, offensive/defensive ratio
When We Overcall
The bids change in meaning compared to when we open and face an overcall. We may have a lot of tempo (e.g. responder
passes and partner overcalled 1♥♠ giving us space and time), or we may be under pressure in a live auction (e.g. the
opponents have a fit and have raised or even preempt raised the auction - (1♦)–1♠–(3♦)).
When Responder Passes
We have maximum tempo, so:
- jump raises are mildly cooperative, e.g. 4–7 and something suitable for level and vulnerability
When Responder Bids
- 3 level (jump or not) raises are cooperative, which allows partner to bid with the right hand (they do have a wide
ranging overcall). Jumps are worth less than any invitational support bids we have, usually the sort of hand
that expects to get pushed to the 3 level and so bids early to make the opponenents guess.
- double is variable in meaning, e.g. responsive, values/cooperative over a 2 level third
suit, or Relay Lebensohl over jump raise. Doubling a raise from 3♠ becomes mainly value
showing. If somehow the new third suit is bid at the 3 level, it should be penalty interest (less general values/cooperative).
Some may not be available depending on how high responder has pushed the bidding and so you have to blend the meanings
- jump cue bids are mixed raises
- cue bid of their raised suit or major is a HCR, worse than 2NT
- cue bid of a 3rd suit is stop SHOWing, e.g. (1♦)–1♠–(2♥)–3♥. A cue over is not natural when partner has overcalled
a suit.
- 2NT is the best invitational raise, therefore usually unbalanced, but still possibly 3 card support and very good
values (e.g. 13–15 hcp).
- cue higher than 3 of our suit should be splinter like, offensive GF
Fit Jumps and Splinters in Competition
- Fit jumps only happen in competition
- Fit jumps take priority over splinters, making splinters in competition unavailable at times
- Fit jumps are impossible in the opponent's suit, always a splinter
When is a jump a fit jump? The following must all be true about the bid:
- we have another way to bid the fit jump suit either naturally or artificially directly at a lower level
- below 4♥ game
- we open 1♥♠ or 2♥♠ (and very rarely open 1♣♦, bid a suit naturally and then get delayed competition). Not over
intermediate 2♣♦ given limited space available to show NF or forcing natural suits. Not over 1♣♦ as they do not show
any suit.
- when we open 1♥♠ or 2♥♠, only after simple overcalls by the opponent (after 1♥♠–(jump) 4♣♦ are artificial slam tries)
- we simple overcall anything (1x, 1NT, multi, weak two etc.), regardless of whether 3rd hands bids, regardless if advancer is 4th or 6th position
What about a double jump?
Double jumps below 4♥ are fit jumps iff a fit jump is not available as a single jump, e.g. because a single jump shows a
natural invitational suit OR a 1-under mixed raise. Otherwise a double jump is a splinter below 4♥ game (a direct 4♥
could only be a splinter in a slow constructive auction - 2nd rebid e.g. 1♠–2♦–2♠–4♥).
2NT Artificial Scrambling
There's a list of situations where 2NT is used for Lebensohl. Other times it maybe
used for raising our partner's suit in competition whether we open or
overcall. Additionally after opening 1♣/1♦/1♥ opener may use Good-Bad 2NT
to allow competing in new suits or good raising. Other times 2NT maybe natural.
A scrambling 2NT shows:
- no easy game possible, competing
- 2+ places to play, usually the minors as they are the suits usually forced to the 3 level
- not forced to bid by a double (it's Lebensohl if double forces partner to bid)
Overall it is rare as 2NT is usually forced after a double (so a better minor Lebensohl 2NT) or it is by a hand that can
reasonably have a natural 2NT bid (when the opponents have opened first we often pass with 11–14 balanced)
(1D)–P–(1S)–X
(2S)
2NT
natural3♦
heart invite3♥
competitiveX
minors
(1D)–P–(1S)–X
(2S)–X–(P)
2NT
better minor Lebensohl, forcing partner to bid
(1S)–P–(2S)–X
2NT
better minor Lebensohl, forcing partner to bid
(1S)–2♣–(2S)–X–(P)
2NT
Lebensohl, forcing partner to bid, likely 5–4 minors3♣
minimum, no side minor
1♦–(2S)–P–(P)–X–(P)
limited in principle though could have 8/9 no bid or penalty pass2NT
better minor Lebensohl, forcing partner to bid
1♦–(1S)–P–(2S)–X–(P)
limited after passing the opponent's overcall2NT
better minor Lebensohl, forcing partner to bid
P–(1H)–X–(2H)–
2NT = scrambling, not forced, passed originally so limited strength
Major Opening and Responder's 4♣♦ Slam Try
We open 1♥/1♠ and opponents interfere with a 2♠ jump overcall OR specific two suiter bids, e.g.
- 1♥–(2H) michaels
- 1♥–(2S) weak/intermediate
- 1♥–(2NT) unusual
- 1♥–(3C) ghestem variant showings ♣s + another
- 1♥–(3D) ♦s + another
- 1♠–(2S) michaels
- 1♠–(2NT) unusual
- 1♠–(3C) ghestem variant showings ♣s + another
Note, it's possible to play these over single suiter 3 level jump overcalls, but we use Relay Lebensohl Doubles
in those situations along with a natural GF 4♣♦ bids.
One known opponent's suit (whether showing one or two suiter)
1M–(jump)
4♣
good game raise, control in opponent's suit4♦
some extras, Last Train like extra strength ask
4♦
major slam try without control in opponent's suit4M
minimal game values or moderate whilst lacking control
Two known opponent's suit
1M–(jump)
4♣
major slam try, shortness in lowest suit4♦
major slam try, shortness in highest suit
Bidding to 4♣♦ over 3♥♠ competition is Invitational
E.g. (1S)–2♦–(2S)–3♦–(3S)
- 4♦ in this example is a game try
- Expecting to make 4 v.s. average hand, and game v.s. good hand
Designed for IMPs, only in matchpoints might it be worth to compete to 4♦ - in IMPS 3♥♠ is never a great final contract
as it risks going one off or worse making a game.
4NT is it a Stronger Raise or Unusual in Competition
- Assuming we are forced by competition to go above 4NT
- The default interpretation is an Unusual 4NT, e.g:
- With a known suit from partner it could be a strong raise or unusual when forced to 5 level:
1♣–(1S)–X–(4S)
X
values4NT
5–5 minors or ♥ slam try (partner has ♥s)
- Where most suits have been bid then 4NT shows stronger raise of partner's suit:
by Responder it follows the slam bidding 4NT rules
- With long strong suit for partner it should clearly be RKB:
(1S)–4♥–(4S)
4NT
RKB, ♥s are a known long strong suit
(1D)–4♥–(4S)
4NT
RKB, yes sometimes useful to show the minors but ♥s should be a strong suit
- Voluntarily going beyond game is still RKB etc.
(2H)–X–(3H)–4♠–(P)
4NT
RKB, clearly RKB here as responsive X available instead of 4♠ if 4 card support
E.g. (1C)–1♠–(P)–2♥–(X)
- overcaller can pass with nothing to say
- XX shows extra values, NOT LIGHT overcall, but not want to go higher if partner is minimum
- 2♠ extra length
Opener's Second Round Double - After Partner's 2 Level WJS
Double shows support and extras in shape or HCP
1♦–(P)–2♥–(2S)
X
extras, support3♥
competitive
Opener's Renegative Double for Both Majors
1♦–(2C)–X–(3C)
X
4 cards both majors, extras
1♣–(1D)–X–(2D)
X
4 cards both majors, good weak NT OR prelude to forcing with strong ♣ hand
Opener's Good-Bad 2NT Rebid in Competition
- After (2DHS) in 4th by the opposition (RHS of opener), 2NT shows strong support or a weaker other suit.
- More common after strong 1♣ opening as a limited opener can often cue bid or jump to show a good raise
1♥–(P)–1NT–(2S)
2NT
good-bad, assumed weak ♣ or ♦ suit in this case as no suit to support3♣♦
maximum, natural3♠
weird bid, GF, shortage
1♥–(P)–1♠–(2C)
have room at 2 level here, so cue bid enough2♦♥
natural3♣
max, good ♠ raise3♠
medium, good ♠ raise
1♥–(P)–1♠–(2D)
also just use a cue3♦
max, good ♠ raise3♠
medium, good ♠ raise
1♦–(P)–1♥–(2S)
now benefit from artificial 2NT2NT
max, good ♥ raise, OR minors3♣♦
maximum, natural, 5–5 minors3♠
GF, shortage
1♦–(1S)–X–(2S)
similar2NT
max, good ♥ raise, OR minors3♣♦
maximum, natural, 5–5 minors3♠
GF, shortage
1♣–(P)–1♥–(2S)
2NT
strong ♥ support without ♠ shortage, or more minimal 16–19 minor holding3♥
invitational, probably weak NT3♠
GF, shortage
1♣–(P)–2♦–(2H)
X
penalty2♠
strong, natural2NT
minimum strong ♣s3♣
sound strong ♣s3♥
general force
Example after 1♦ opening
Opener's Good-Bad 2NT Rebid After Major NF
- 4th hand may or may not bid, e.g. 1♦–(1S)–2♥–(2S).
Main examples:
- 1♣–(X)–2♥♠ weak 5–7
- 1♣–(1D)–2♥♠ weak 5–7
- 1♦♥♠–(overcall/X)–then weak jump shift
- 2♣–(any)–2♥♠ NF
- 2♦–(any)–2♥♠ NF
2NT
strong support or weaker other suit3♣♦
stronger natural bid3M
competitive
Einar Cue Bid
- catchall cue bid lacking a suitably natural rebid – minimum with 5 carder or maximum hands
- overcaller cue bids opener's suit at the TWO level after advancer bids (or shows somehow) a new suit e.g.
(1D)–1♠–2♣–2♦ or (1C)–1♥–1♠–2♣.
- never too high to stop advancer rebidding their major suit at two level or minor at 3 level
- continuations natural, e.g. simple rebid by advancer 8–11, 2NT ~12–14, 3M invite, new suit F1
I.e:
- (1CD)–1♥–1♠: 2♣♦ cue
- (1C)–1♦–1♥/1♠: 2♣ cue
- (1H)–2♣–2♦: 2♥ cue
- (1S)–2♣–2♥: 2♠ cue
Typically shows:
- a) minimum ~8–11(12) without natural rebid (often 5–3–3–2) OR
- b) inbetween major support, e.g. ~12 hcp with 3 card support, too good for 2M raise
- c) 13+ hcp, good hands hard to describe so generally forcing showing extra strength
- NOT a 6 card minimum two level suit rebid
- NOT a 3 level jump which shows extra values AND distributional
Advancer's 2♣ Relay
- we overcall 1M and responder passes
- shows either 9+ hcp, usually Hx+ to bad 3 card, often flattish, OR 13+ hcp catchall (semi)balanced with no support
- strength asking relay to handle the wide ~8–16 hcp overcalls.
- mostly natural (make it up) except for 2♦ to show 12+
- As a 2NT rebid bypasses 2M and is not artificial 12+, it conventionally shows a shapely ~10–11 6 carder, e.g. 6–4
Examples:
(1CD)–1♥–2♣
2♦
artificial, 12+ hcp2♥
NF, ~9–11 Hx or real support2♠
F1, natural (unusual given 1♠ response opportunity)2NT
GF waiting, ~12+ hcpcue
F1, semi-natural or just forcing3om
GF, 5+ minor, Hx major support, e.g. Axx Kx xxx KQ10xx3♥
invitational, support3NT
~13–15 balanced4x
3 card support splinter
2♥
8–11, main suit nothing special2NT
natural, invitationalcue
F1, with Hx major support
2NT
F1, 10+ shapely, e.g. 6 card main suit and 4 card side suit, forcing to 3♠3x
8–11, 5–53♥
8–11, excellent 6+ cards main suit (not mandatory with minimum)
(1CD)–1♠–2♣
2♦
artificial, 12+ hcp2♥
forcing, 4 card ♥ suit (use transfer with 5 cards), e.g. xx KJxx AJx Axxx2♠
NF, ~9–11 Hx or real support2NT
GF waiting, ~12+ hcpcue
F1, semi-natural or just forcing3om
GF, 5+ minor, Hx major support, e.g. Kx Axx xxx KQ10xx3♠
invitational, support3NT
~13–15 balanced4x
3 card support splinter
2♥
8–11, natural side suit2♠
8–11, main suit nothing special2NT
natural, invitationalcue
F1, with Hx major support
2NT
F1, 10+ shapely, e.g. 6 card main suit and 4 card side suit, forcing to 3♠3x
8–11, 5–53♠
8–11, excellent 6+ cards main suit (not mandatory with minimum)
Advancers 2♣ Relay Interference
- pass with nothing to say
- over double or 2♦ system on, e.g. bid or double 2♦ with artificial, 12+ hcp
Doubles
- Is it a standard negative double situation? Negative X played to 4♥ (but more values showing Thrump style over
double jump to 3DHS). Promising the unbid major(s) or ability to handle the auction based on partner's next bid. Used
to start a stop ask (Directional Asking Bid).
- Is it a standard maximal competitive double situation? Competitive X played to 3♠. Double of opponents' raised suit
when partner has opened or overcalled: 1♥–(2D)–2♥–(3D)–X
- Is it a standard *responsive* double situation showing the other two suits? Responsive X played to 3♠. Partner does
takeout X or overcalls of opener and then we X the opponents' raise (OBAR). Their raise can be artificial.
If these do not apply then some blanket rules exist.
Blanket rules apply up to 2♠ - if not sure above 2♠ assume penalty (others play this to 3♠).
"All doubles of bids through 2♠ are takeout UNLESS":
- It's defined above as one of Negative, Competitive or Responsive
- partner responded 1NT/2♣/2♦, doubler sitting over. Compare when open or overcall – Overcalls of our NT first double is takeout, second penalty.
- our side bid and raised a suit. So, 1♥–(P)–2♥–(2S)–X should be penalty, whereas 1♥–(1S)–2♥–(2S)–X is competitive.
- our side redoubled
- our side made a penalty double or penalty pass
- the bid doubled was artificial
- partner preempts
- our side are in a GF (1♥/♠ + 2/1, 1♣–1NT/2♠)
- our side invites 3NT (1♣–2♠, 1♣–2NT)
- our side limits hand with no major (1♣–1NT/2♣ is no major or already in a GF)
- a passed hand doubles their solo rebid, (1H)–P–(P)–X–(2H)–X
Takeout Doubles
Modern standard:
- happy to X with minimum when have the other major
- happy to have a doubleton in an unbid minor if we have the major(s)
- 1♣/1♦ takeout emphasises the majors, nothing about the minors
Consider a takeout X (and maybe later DAB cue bid) instead of a 1NT bid with 4–4–3–2, the other major and the sort of hand where
partner should play NT (we have Axx they Qx)
Relay Lebensohl Doubles
- After we open or overcall, there are many times the opponents raise the bidding to the 3 level before partner responds (maybe be a good passed hand)
- Played when we have shown a suit, so opened 1♥♠, overcalled or takeout double
- Double is a relay to the next suit, instead of being a "responsive" double or negative double, with competitive hands
- Double of most 3 level bids, anything that's not specifically shortage showing, so fit jumps, new suits,
natural raises or artificial raises. Doubling a shortage implies our own double fit or a very good suit with sacrifice interest
- A later cue bid or 3NT by doubler shows a normal negative double
- Lebensohl like allowing a distinction between competitive bids and genuine GF new suits / support invitational raises
Note, over 3♠ double can be competitive relay like, but we initially assume it's asking for a stop (Thrump).
It's conceivable to play this after we open 1♣/1♦/1NT, but without a known long suit finding a stop or checking for a
4 card major should be more frequent and useful than just having the option to compete, certainly for IMPs.
Examples:
- 1♥♠–(3x)
- (1H)–1♠–(3H)
- (1H)–1♠–(3C) support showing bid
- (1H)–1♠–(3C) anything, not shortage showing
- (1H)–X–(3H)
- (1H)–X–(3C) support showing bid
- (1H)–X–(3C) anything, not shortage showing
- (1H)–2♦–(3H)
- (1H)–2♠–(3H) our weak jump overcall
- (2D)–X–(3D)
- (2H)–X–(3H) weak two preempted further
- (2H)–2♠–(3H)
- (2D)–2♠–(3H) multi preempted further
When we open and the opponent jump bids, it's often a preempt (maybe intermediate). Here, it's good to have a way
to find a slam and not preempt a preempt. E.g.
1♥–(3D)
3♥
natural limit raise4♥
slam try without ♦ control, not obstructive
When they open a slam is very unlikely for our side and a penalty double will rarely be useful. E.g.
(1H)–1♠–(3H)
3♠
natural limit raise4♠
obstructive, ambiguous strength
Optional Extension After 1♣ Opening or 1♦ Opening
Given that a 1♣ and 1♦ opening can be ambiguous, the relay double can be extended to auctions such as:
- 1♣–(1H)–X–(3H) or any other 3 raise
- 1♣–(1S)–X–(3S)
- 1♣–(2H)–X–(3H)
Responder has shown a suit and the opponents have pushed to the 3 level. Given that 1♣ (and less so 1D) are quite vague
we can treat opener as having not bid.
Responsive Doubles Style
A standard responsive double is a form of takeout with focus on the unbid major(s). When partner makes a takeout double
advancer's double is a form of re-takeout. Sometimes it is more values, perhaps with a single minor suit, tolerance for partner but
lacking a stop for NT.
What about when there is no unbid/implied major? For example, (1H)–1♠–(2H) or (1S)–X–(2S). Should our responsive
double be used to cater for minor hands with values?
- (1H)–1♠–(2H), we know overcaller has 5 cards and use the usual HCR, or 2NT support bids, 2♠ limited support or
3♠ cooperative – lots of options, therefore double can be a standard takeout bid showing the minors and relevant
values for the level
- (1S)–2♥–(2S), we also know overcaller has 5 cards, 2NT is a support bid. The HCR goes beyond 3 of our suit and
therefore is GF and shortage/offensive showing. 3♥, however, can still be used as competitive, therefore double is
the typical responsive values with the minor(s)
Pushed to the 3 level, things are different. Here we choose to play Relay Lebensohl Doubles
to allow competing in partner's suit or a different suit.
- (1H)–1♠–(3H), with limited bidding space, a standard 3♠ becomes cooperative to game and double a typical takeout,
but played with Relay Lebensohl Doubles 3♠ is invitational. A hand without a stop and
limited ♠ may struggle with this style.
- (1S)–2♥–(3S), in standard style as forced to the 4 level this is a mainly values showing responsive double, but
we interpret it as Thrump OR Relay Lebensohl Doubles
The double is always more value showing as it gets high level, especially over 3♠. At the 4 level we just call our
double "values" showing instead of responsive.
What about when the opponents raise a minor?
- (1D)–1♠–(2D), there's a lot of space and various support showing bids so double is similar to a negative double
showing 4 ♥s (maybe 5 bad ones). With a good 5♥ hand we could just bid 2♥, or 3♥ with a 6 card good invitational
hand.
- (1D)–1♠–(3D), again Relay Lebensohl Doubles + invitational 3♠ bid. The alternative
standard style could use 3♠ as cooperative mildly invitational bid.
When we bid a minor?
- (1S)–2♣–(2S), the 2♣ overcall virtually denies ♥s, so double can show 5 ♥s or 6 bad ones. Standard responsive
doubles focus on the two other suits, e.g. 4♥s and 5♦s, which makes it less clear that bidding the other
major directly promises 6 reasonable cards. There is no room for a jump invitational 3♥ bid so the distinction is
important.
When we start with a takeout double:
- (1D)–X–(2D), we cannot expect partner to have 5 cards in a particular major, rarely not even 4 cards. We cue bid 3♦
with GF both majors 4–4+ (or possibly one major and slam try with shortage) or double with values and one 4 card
major (or less than an invite both majors), so 2NT RLEB with both majors + stop and an
exact invite is possible, though maybe clearer to punt the 3♦ GF cue
- (1D)–X–(3D), similar but more pressure. Relay Lebensohl Doubles + 3♥♠ invitational.
Subject to further refinement, given that doubler may not have both majors. Perhaps double 3+ both majors + 3♥♠ with 5
cards invitational is better.
Takeout over a major:
- (1M)–X–(2M), no promise of a 5 card other major by doubler. RLEB is on here. Double can
show values with 4 card major support instead of maybe values and minors (similar to doubles after interference over
1NT). Bidding the other major directly or via Lebensohl at the 3 level should indicate 5 cards
- (1H)–X–(3H), Relay Lebensohl Doubles + 3♠ invitational. Given that a takeout double is
not as wide ranging as an overcall the standard alternative with double as "values", a competitive 3♠ and
no invitational bid is reasonable
- (1S)–X–(3S), double is Thrump OR Relay Lebensohl Doubles. Unsure of ♥ length, the
alternative standard double showing values (with 5♥s would probably just bid 4H) is reasonable.
Activity Doubles and Splinters
When the opponents show a short suit that does not make much sense for us to lead, such as a splinter, then
despite us apparently lacking strength, double should be for activity, in this case a potential sacrifice
Note, an alternative is takeout, e.g. ♠s if they bid ♥s and more general takeout if they have the master ♠s
Activity Doubles by Weak Often Preempt Hands
A weak hand that has already described some offensive ability, such as a weak two, cannot reasonably have a penalty double
of any game the opponents bid, UNLESS partner has had space to show GF values and defense.
So, if we open with a preempt, it is possible for the preempter to double with extreme shape (e.g. 6–4/6–5 after 2HS openings)
and shortage in the opponents' suit, which suggests sacrifice unless partner can pass with a penalty trump stack.
Single Raise they Compete We Double
- Double shows extra values (possibly penalty)
1♥–(1S)–2♥–(2S)
Dbl
extra values, lacking extra length2NT
general game try, not exposing opener3♣♦
natural trial bid, exposing opener3♥
weaker not invitational, reasonable suit/shape3♠
GF, ♠ shortage, offensive hand
1♥♠–(P)–2♥♠–(2/3x)
Dbl
penalty (see rule - we bid and raised a suit)
1♥♠–(P)–2♥♠–(X)
XX
extra values and not just length as partner supported, forcing to 3♥♠ or penalties3♥♠
NF
1♥♠–(X)–2♥♠–(3oM)
Dbl
extras, penalty suggestion (see rule - we bid and raised a suit)3♥♠
NF
1♥♠–(any)–2♥♠–(3raise)
Dbl
extras, penalty suggestion (see rule - we bid and raised a suit)3♥♠
NF
2NT support raise then we Double
- More likely have game on, so double is NOT penalty interest if they bid raise a suit
- Where they have no fit double remains penalty
1♥♠–(any)–2NT–(any)
Dbl
penalty, (see rule - we bid and raised a suit)
1♥♠–(2x)–(2NT)–(3x)
Dbl
extra values, shortage - SPECIAL non-penalty agreement4x
(below game), void
Delayed Takeout Doubles
When not doubling on the first round:
- X is typically long in the opponents' first bid suit
- short in opener's second bid suit
- short in responders bid suit when opener rebids the same suit
- decent strength, often 4 card suits competing
Stolen Double by advancer - Opponents' HCR double
(1H)–1♠–(2S/3S)
X
"Stolen" bid, double I would have bid that.
Anti-Leading Doubles of Raised or Strongly Bid Suits
- strongly bid means shown 6 cards already
- typically a 3 level anti lead double
The extra length meaning has less value when we have already shown a 6 card suit or our side has raised the suit.
1♥–(1S)–P–(2H)
X
extra ♥ length, extra values inviting 3♥ bid with Hx+ support3♥
very good suit and shape, extras
Other examples:
- 1♦–(1HS)–P–(2D)–X
- 1♠–(2CDH)–P–(2S)–X
Pass then later X would allow opener to compete in the minors suits.
Double Showing HCR by advancer - Opponents' 3x raise
- (1x) then overcall by us then the opponents raise to (3x)
- Note, (1x)–1M–(2x) then X is values 9+ as we have space for 2NT invite plus raise
X then shows a HCR.
Examples:
1♦–(P)–1♠–(P)–2♠–(X)
XX
responder now shows 5 cards, inviting opener to compete 3♠
1M–(P)–1NT–(P)–2M–(X)
XX
responder has 3+ card support opposite 6 cards
1M–(P)–2M–(X)
XX
pointless?, 6 cards, dead minimum presumably as facing a 3 card invite
1♣–(P)–1♠–(P)–2♠–(X)
XX
responder now shows 5 cards, inviting opener to compete 3♠
FSF Redouble or Other Artificial Forcing Bids
When opponents double an artificial bid for lead direction
- XX for strong play suggestion (e.g. 4 very good / 5+ reasonable suit)
- Pass to play if partner can help in support e.g. Hxx+
- Cannot play in the contract only doubled, must be redoubled
- Otherwise bid on as if not doubled
Handling doubles of our stopper ask of their suit
Helping to right side 3NT or not play it.
(1S)–X–(P)–3♣–(P)–3♠–(X)
lead-directing X of DABPass
xx, Jx, or xxx in their suit3NT
good stopper, e.g. AJxXX
either a full or partial stopper (Qx, Jxx)bid
singleton only in their suit4♠
void in their suit
3♠ cue here could be a proxy for a very strong unbalanced hand, not a DAB with something in ♠, but then 3NT will be pulled anyway.
Confidently Bid Game/Slam Contract Lead Directing Doubles
If the opponents bid confidently suit doubles are Lightner and NT doubles have standard meanings (lead our suit/suits,
else dummy's first bid suit or the shortest major). See Special Leads.
5 Level Doubles in Competition
- Generalization: if in doubt, the 5 level belongs to the opponents
- Caveat: phantom saves with highly distributional competitive hands at IMPs are often a reasonable insurance policy
Phantom saves at matchpoints are far more tolerable than at IMPs, indeed there are many attempts to go minus 100 insted
of minus 110 etc at matchpoints etc. The double game swing (along with slams) is one of the greatest sources of IMP
gains/losses, so on highly distributional hands it can pay to ignore the usual caution around phantom saves at IMPs,
and bid to go an expected one off in a 5 level contract
We "Own" The Hand
Typically we were expecting to bid and make some 4 level game, or maybe 5♣♦ and then they interfered.
In these 5 level situations there is a first and second bidder on our side. For the first bidder:
- Double is minimum / defensive
- Pass is Forcing, interest in bidding more
- Bidding shows uncommunicated extras
For the second bidder:
- Pass (requires partner to have doubled) and agrees to defend
- Bidding shows near slam values or extra distribution
- Double to defend, not accepting an invitation to play at the 5 level
We Do NOT Own The Hand
Generally pass or sacrifice further!
A double is Lightner by default, assuming you think they bid confidently
Opponents open Strong 1♣
Show majors, especially ♠ and bid to limit. Pass then later bid unusual NT if really want
to show ♣+♦.
With limited strength may want to hide distribution information and just bid the major (not 1NT / 2NT overcalls).
(1C)–
X
♠ 4 cards + 5/6 card minor.(P)
Pass
♣ suit1♦
Pass/Correct minor1♥
3 card ♥ fragment and long ♣ suit1♠
4 good ♠ happy with 4–3 fit
♣/♦
pass/correct any level (unless rebid later self-sufficient suit)1NT
4 card ♠ limit raise, opening hand+2NT
5 card ♠ limit raise, opening hand+
(XX)
Pass
play if you have ♣ (1♣XX is not game)
(any)
♣/♦
pass/correct any levelNT
constructive ♠ raise
1♦
4–4/5–4 both majors (longer ♥ 5–4 is better as it will be choosen when advancer is equal length)♥/♠
bid to level1NT
constructive in ♥/♠, e.g. 3–32♣
to play2NT
constructive game invite in ♥/♠, bid 4 with max
1♥♠
natural, often 5 cards(P)
1NT
3 card support, constructive game invite2NT
4 card support, constructive game invite
(X)
XX
2 card support, part score competition interest at 2 level if partner has 6
1NT
5♠ + 5 other(P)
2♣
escape ask2♦
escape ♦/♥ or single ♦ suiter2♥
escape ♥ only
(X)
XX
escape ask2♣♦♥
single suit, to play
2x
natural, 6 cards normally2y
FNJ implications2NT
invitational
2NT
5♥ + ♣/♦
(1C)–P–(1D)
X
same as 1♦ overcall of 1♣
(1C)–P–(Any)
X
both majors OR iff responder showed a major then other major + minorNT
takeout, lower suits, 4 in a suit that can be bid at 1 level, 5 card suit if must be bid at 2levelOthers
natural
Opponents open 1♣ Natural / Prepared / Multi
(1C)–X
(1C)–X
Takeout1NT
natural ~8–112♦
to play, shape, improving the contract, must GF cue bid or jump (invitational) to show stronger minor hand2♥♠
normal, stronger than 1♥ overcall(2C)
re-compete2♦
shape, improving the contract2♥♠
normal, stronger than 1♠ overcall
2♣
cue 4–4 majors or strong, forcing, will rebid, not GF2♦♥♠
~8–11 5+ suit3♦
~12-143♥♠
6+ long suit, 6–8 (give partner space if 17+ without our major)
(1C)–X–(1HS)
X
takeout2♣
HCR sandwich cue, 4 card other major invitational2♦
NF, play attempt e.g. 4–3–5–1
CueOver
natural, sitting over3♣
forcing hand cue, often ♦s3♥♠
invitational, 5+ card suit
(1C)–X–(XX)
pass
nothing to say, maybe quite strong2♦♥♠
weak
(1C)–X–(1NT)
X
4–4+ two suiter, including a major
(1C)–X–(2NT)
3♥♠
co-operative, natural3NT
sacrifice suggestion, good 4+ majors support
(1C)–any–(cue)
X
"Stolen" bid, double I would have bid that.
(1C)–X–(2C)
X
responsive maybe one majorothers
RLEB over 2♣
(1C)–X–(3x)
X
Relay competitive double
(1C)–Overcall
(1C)
1♦
10+ decent values or lead directing, very unlikely to have a major1♥♠
F1, usually 5 card suit, 8+ hcp2♣
einar catchall cue bid3M
natural invitational, ~12–13 4 card support
1NT
natural ~8–13, often with stopper2♣
extra strength cue, F1 artificial strength showing, ~13+ hcp
2♣
HCR, ~11+ support pointsNewSuit
NF at all levels, jumps stronger though2♥♠
NF, ~10–12 and good 6 card suit2NT
invitational plus support3♣
splinter support3♦
natural raise, pre-emptive, less than HCR (no minor mixed raises)3♥♠
fit jump
1♥♠
natural, light ~8–161♠
F1, usually 5 cards, 8+ hcp, maybe 4 cards unsuitable for NT e.g. 4–1–4–42♣
einar catchall cue bid2♦
8–12 natural2♥
8–12, 6 ♥s2♠
8–(11), support2NT
natural3♣
10–12 hcp, 4 card ♠ support (use einar with 3 cards)3♦
invitational, 5–5 ♥s + ♦s3♥
invitational, good 6+ suit3♠
12–13, 4 card ♠ support
1NT
~8–13, usually a stopper over natural bid, consider 2♣ without stop - esp. with support2♣
cue, F1 artificial strength showing, ~13+ hcp (1NT is wide ranging as 2NT is support)2♦
8–12, natural2M
8–12, 6+ card major2oM
natural, 8–12. F1 if 2♠ reverse after bidding ♥s, 6(5)–4 shape.2NT
natural3♣♦
invitational, 5–5 major + minor3♥
(after ♠ overcall) 6♠s and 4♥s, nearly GF (with 5–5 use 2 suiter overcall)3M
rebid, invitational3NT
to play
2♣
multi-meaning, F1, 9+ hcp limited Hx support OR 13+ catchall2x
natural, NF constructive ~8–122M
natural raise, ~6–10, 3 card support2♠
(advancing 1♥) NF, ~10–12, good 6 card suit2NT
invitational plus support3♣
jump cue, mixed raise ~7–10 hcp just under invite3M
natural raise, ~4–7 semi-preemptive/cooperative support3Y
unbid suits are invitational 6+ (good) suit3♠
(advancing 1♥) fit jump4♣
splinter4♦
fit jump (no 3D fit jump available)4M
non-cooperative vague strength as responder passed
1NT
usual ~15–18, maybe long ♦, beware downgrade too many honours/length in the opponent's suitbid
system on2♠
range ask or ♣ transfer, note ♣ transfer is shortage showing over natural 1♣(any)
X
negative of natural bidsOthers
Lebensohl system
2♣
over prepared ♣: natural2x
NF, natural2NT+
RLEB3♣
invitational
2♣
over natural ♣: majors, not strong2♦
relay, weak major signoff type hands2♥
relayedP/2♠
simple preference, less than limit raise
2♥♠
limit+ raise, 3+ card support, 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits)2NT
natural invitational, very rare, very strong minor stops3♣♦
N/A3♥♠
mixed raise, 4 trumps, 2 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits), ~7–9 support points3NT
to play4♣
choose a major jump cue, later 4NT double fit RKB4♥♠
ambiguous, fast arrival
2♦
weak jump overcall2♥♠
weak, respond as 6 card weak two2NT
5–5 ♥s + ♦s3♣
good ♥ raise, 2 useful features3♦♥
to play3♠
natural NF4♦
good ♦ raise, either 3 cards + 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits) or 4 cards + 2 useful features4♥
to play
3♣
majors, strong, 8+PT ~17+ hcp3♦
quasi natural, possibly NT stop hunt or early slam try3M
better major4♥♠
slam interest, encouraging RKB
Major
natural, any level4♣
choose a major, later 4NT double fit RKB
3♦♥♠
normal preempt3NT
to play (extreme ♥/♦ shape by passed hand, e.g. x/QJ10xxx/KJ10xxx)4♣
natural
(1C)–1♥♠–(X)
Pass
possibly trap with later doubles for penalty and 0/1 card support for overcaller's majorXX
~10+ values with exactly doubleton support1NT
transfer HCR ~11+ support points, 3+ card support2♣
♦s, 6+ hcp, sound weak two or better 6+ cards OR 5 cards and will bid again, or lead directing 4+ suit with 3 card support2♦
(over 1H overcall) transfer raise, ~8–10 support points, 3 cards, worse than mixed raise2♦
(over 1S overcall) ♥s, 6+ hcp2♥
(over 1S overcall) transfer raise, ~8–10 support points, 3 cards, worse than mixed raise2M
natural, very weak, ~4–7 useful support points2♠
(after 1H overcall) NF, ~10–12 and good 6 card suit2NT
invitational plus support3♣
mixed raise3x
invitational, 6+ new suit3♠
(advancing 1♥) fit jump4♣♦
fit jump
(1C)–1♦–(1NT)
X
values ~9+, maybe moderate NF support2♣
HCR2♦
natural raise, ~6–102♥♠
NF2NT
invitational plus raise3♣
mixed raise3♦
cooperative3♥♠
invitational, 6+ good new suit4♣
splinter4♦
distributional preempt4♥♠
to play
(1C)–1♦–(other)
X
values ~9+, maybe moderate NF support2♣
HCR, worse than 2NT2♦
natural raise, ~6–102Y
new suit, NF constructive ~8–122♠
(jump) natural, NF, good 6 carder invitational - as 3x new suit bid2NT
invitational plus raise3♣
splinter, long ♦s (mixed raise has less value when looking for 5♣/5♦)3♦
cooperative3♥♠
invitational, 6+ new suit
(1C)–1♥♠–(higher)
X
values ~9+, maybe moderate NF support2M
natural raise, ~6–102Y
new suit, NF, often ~8–12 maybe 6–12 but expect a 12+ overcaller to bid on2NT
invitational plus support3♣
mixed raise3x
invitational, 6+ new suit3M
cooperative4♣
splinter4♦
fit jump
(1C)–1♥♠–(1NT)
X
5–5+ other suits2♣
HCR, weaker than 2NT2x
NF2M
natural raise, ~6–102NT
invitational plus support3♣
mixed raise3x
invitational, 6+ new suit3M
cooperative4♣
splinter4♦
fit jump
(1C)–1♥♠–(3C)
X
Relay competitive double3M
invitational4♣
strong raise, offensive i.e. ♣ shortage4M
playable, somewhat cooperative vs 5♣ sacrifice
(1C)–(Any) Sandwich Position
(1C)–P–(1x)
X
takeout1NT
natural, system on (assuming light openings and responses by opponents)2♣
Michaels, sitting underCueOver
natural, sitting over2NT
Michaels, better often 6–53♣
Majors, strong (even over 1M response from 3rd hand)
(1C)–P–(1NT)
2♣
artifical, (5–4) majors2♦
Michaels, both majors2NT
Unusual (3 unbid suits so not better Michaels), ♦s + ♥s3♣
Majors, strong
(1C)–P–(3C)
others
as Opponents open 3♣
4th Balancing 1♣
Summary
(1C)–P–(P)
1♥♠
maybe 4 card avoiding 1NT1NT
11–15(16)2♣
staymanic range askOthers
1NT system on
2♣
Michaels2♦♥♠
natural ~10–132NT
19–21 natural3x
natural intermediate4x
natural
Opponents open 1♦
(1D)–X
(1D)–X
Takeout1NT
natural ~8–112♣
to play, shape, improving the contract, must GF cue bid or jump (invitational) to show stronger minor hand2♥♠
normal, stronger than 1♥ overcall(2D)
re-compete3♣
shape, improving the contract3♥♠
normal, stronger than 1♠ overcall
2♦
cue 4–4 majors or strong, forcing, will rebid, not GF2♥♠
~8–11 5+ suit3♣
~12–143♥♠
6+ long suit, 6–8 (give partner space if 17+ without our major)
(1D)–X–(1HS)
X
takeout2♦
HCR sandwich cue, 4 card other major invitationalCueOver
natural, sitting over3♦
forcing hand cue, often ♣s3♥♠
obstructive
(1D)–X–(XX)
pass
nothing to say, maybe quite strong2♥♠
weak3♣
weak
(1D)–X–(1NT)
X
4–4+ two suiter, at least one major
(1D)–X–(2NT)
3♥♠
co-operative, natural3NT
sacrifice suggestion, good 4+ majors support
(1D)–any–(cue)
X
"Stolen" bid, double I would have bid that.
(1D)–X–(2D)
X
responsive maybe one majorothers
RLEB over 2♦
(1D)–X–(3x)
X
Relay competitive double
(1D)–Overcall
(1D)
1♥♠
natural, light ~8–161♠
F1, usually 5 cards, 8+ hcp, maybe 4 cards unsuitable for NT e.g. 4–1–4–42♣
8–12 natural2♦
einar catchall cue bid2♥
8–12, 6 ♥s2♠
8–11, support2NT
natural3♣
invitational, 5–5 ♥s + ♣s3♦
10–12 hcp, ♠ support3♥
invitational, good 6+ suit3♠
12–13, 4 card ♠ support
1NT
~8–13, usually a stopper over natural bid, consider 2♣ without stop - esp. with support2♣
8–12, natural2♦
extra strength, cue F1 artificial strength showing, ~13+ hcp2M
8–12, 6+ card major2oM
natural, 8–12. F1 if 2♠ reverse after bidding ♥s, 6(5)–4 shape.2NT
natural3♣♦
invitational, 5–5 major + minor3♥
(after ♠ overcall) 6♠s and 4♥s, nearly GF (with 5–5 use 2 suiter overcall)3M
rebid, invitational3NT
to play
2♣
multi-meaning, F1, 9+ hcp limited Hx support OR 13+ catchall2♦
HCR, worse than 2NT2x
natural, NF constructive ~8–12 (8/9+ hcp 6 cards, 10+ hcp 5 cards)2M
natural raise, ~6–10, 3 card support2♠
(advancing 1♥) NF, ~10–12, good 6 card suit2NT
invitational plus support3♣
invitational 6+ (good) suit3♦
jump cue, mixed raise, ~7–10, 4 card support3M
natural raise, ~4–7 semi-preemptive/cooperative3♥
(over 1♠) invitational 6+ (good) suit3♠
(over ♥) fit jump4♣
fit jump4♦
splinter4M
non-cooperative vague strength as responder passed
1NT
usual ~15–18, maybe long ♣, beware downgrade too many honours/length in the opponent's suitbid
system on2NT
♦ transfer, note over natural ♦ shows shortage(any)
X
negative of natural bidsOthers
Lebensohl system
2♣
natural, pretty much denying a major(Pass/Dbl)
double not considered interfering2♦
♥ transfer 5+, forcing only to 2♥2♥
about minimum, usually 2/3 cards2NT
F1, extra values3♦
stop ask or general force3♥
invitational, non-minimum
2♥
♠ transfer 5+, forcing only to 2♠2♠
about minimum, usually 2/3 cards2NT
F1, extra values3♦
stop ask or general force3♠
invitational, non-minimum
2♠
forcing to at least 3♣, HCR OR very good hand2NT
natural, NF3♣
natural, NF3♦
splinter, e.g. 4–4–1–4 or longer ♣s3♥♠
GF, fit jump
2♦
over prepared ♦: natural2♥♠
NF, natural2NT+
RLEB3♦
invitational
2♦
over natural ♦: majors, not strong2♥♠
simple preference, prefer ♥s with equal length2NT
natural invitational, very rare, very strong minor stops3♣
♥ limit+ raise, 3+ card support, 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits)3♦
♠ limit+ raise, 3+ card support, 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits)3♥♠
mixed raise, 4 trumps, 2 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits), ~7–9 support points3NT
to play4♦
choose a major jump cue, later 4NT double fit RKB4♥♠
ambiguous, fast arrival
2♥♠
weak, respond as 6 card weak two2NT
5–5 ♥s + ♣s3♣♥
to play3♦
good 3♥ raise, 2 useful features3♠
natural, NF4♣
good club raise, either 3 cards + 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits) or 4 cards + 2 useful features
3♣
NV weak similar to 3♣ opening, VUL intermediate e.g. Ax/Kx/xxx/AKJ10xx3♦
stop asking3♥♠
natural, forcing
3♦
majors, strong, 8+PT ~17+ hcpMajor
natural, any level4♣
cue, slam try4♦
choose a major, later 4NT double fit RKB
3♥♠
normal preempt3NT
to play (extreme ♥/♣ shape by passed hand, e.g. x/QJ10xxx/KJ10xxx)4♦
natural
(1D)–1♥♠–(X)
Pass
possibly trap with later doubles for penalty, 0/1 card support for overcaller's majorXX
~10+ values with exactly doubleton support1NT
♣s, 6+ hcp, sound weak two or better 6+ cards OR 5 cards and will bid again, or lead directing 4+ suit with 3 card support2♣
transfer HCR ~11+ support points, 3+ card support2♦
(over 1♥ overcall) transfer raise, ~8–10 support points, 3 cards, worse than mixed raise2♦
(over 1♠ overcall) ♥s, 6+ hcp2♥
(over 1♠ overcall) transfer raise, ~8–10 support points, 3 cards, worse than mixed raise2M
natural, very weak, ~4–7 useful support points2♠
(after 1♥ overcall) NF, ~10–12 and good 6 card suit2NT
invitational plus support3♣
invitational, 6+ new suit3♦
mixed raise3M
preempt, 4+ cards, ~4–73♥
(over 1♠ overcall) invitational, 6+ new suit3♠
(over 1♥ overcall) fit jump4♣
fit jump4♦
splinter
(1D)–1♥♠–(1NT)
X
values ~9+, maybe moderate NF support2♦
HCR2x
NF constructive2M
natural raise, ~6–102NT
invitational plus support3♣
invitational, 6+ suit3♦
mixed raise3M
cooperative3♥
(over 1♠ overcall) invitational, 6+ new suit3♠
(over 1♥ overcall) fit jump3oM
fit jump4♣♦
splinter
(1D)–1♥♠–(higher)
X
values ~9+, maybe moderate NF support2♦
cue, HCR, not as good as 2NT2M
natural raise, ~6–102Y
new suit, NF, often ~8–12 maybe 6–12 but expect a 12+ overcaller to bid on2♠
(after 1H overcall) NF, ~10–12 and good 6 card suit2NT
invitational plus support3♣
invitational, 6+ suit3♦
mixed raise, ~7–10, 4 card support3M
cooperative3♥
(over 1♠ overcall) invitational, 6+ new suit3♠
(over 1♥ overcall) fit jump4♣
fit jump4♦
splinter
(1D)–1♥♠–(3D)
X
Relay competitive double3M
invitational4♦
strong raise, offensive i.e. ♦ shortage4M
playable, somewhat cooperative vs 5♦ sacrifice
(1D)–(Any) Sandwich Position
(1D)–P–(1x)
X
takeout1NT
natural, system on (assuming light openings and responses by opponents)2♦
Michaels, sitting underCueOver
natural, sitting over2NT
Michaels, better often 6–53♦
Majors, strong (even over 1M from 3rd hand)
(1D)–P–(1NT)
2♣
artificial, (5–4) majors2♦
Michaels, both majors2NT
Unusual (3 unbid suits so not better Michaels), ♥s + ♣s3♦
Majors, strong (even over 1M from 3rd hand)
4th Balancing 1♦
Summary
(1D)–P–(P)
1♥♠
maybe 4 card avoiding 1NT1NT
11–15(16)2♣
staymanic range askOthers
1NT system on
2♦
Michaels2♥♠
natural ~10–132NT
19–21 natural3x
natural intermediate4x
natural
Opponents open 1♥
(1H)–X
(1H)–X
Takeout1NT
natural ~8–112♣♦
to play, shape, improving the contract, must GF cue bid or jump (invitational) to show stronger minor hand2♠
normal, stronger than 1♠ overcall(2H)
re-compete3♣♦
shape, improving the contract3♠
normal, stronger than 1♠ overcall
2♥
strong, forcing, will rebid, not GF2♠
~8–11 5+ suit3♣♦
~12–143♠
6+ long suit, 6–8 (give partner space if 17+ without our major)
(1H)–X–(XX)
pass
nothing to say, maybe quite strong2♠
weak3♣♦
weak
(1H)–X–(1S)
X
takeout2♥
forcing hand cue, sitting under2♠
cue natural, sitting over2NT
natural3♣♦
invitational, 5+ card suit
(1H)–X–(1NT)
X
4–4+ two suiter, including ♠s
(1H)–X–(2NT)
X
responsive, exactly 4 ♠s (not standard X implying a minor)3♠
co-operative, natural3NT
sacrifice suggestion, good 4+ card support
(1H)–X–(2/3H)
opponents open and major raise to two/three levelX
responsive denies ♠s or Relay over 3!H2♠
5+ ♠ suit (possibly 4 card e.g. AKJ9)Others
RLEB over 2♥3♠
co-operative over (3♥)
(1H)–X–(3x)
X
Relay competitive double
(1H)–any–(cue)
HCR typicallyX
"Stolen" bid, double I would have bid that.
(1H)–X–(4H)
X
values, not necessarily a major
(1H)–Overcall
1♠
natural, light ~8–161NT
~8–13, usually a stopper over natural bid, consider 2♣ without stop - especially if can show support2♥
cue F1 artificial strength showing, ~13+ hcp (1NT is wide ranging as 2NT is support)
2♣
multi-meaning, F1, 9+ hcp limited Hx support OR 13+ catchall2♦
natural, NF constructive ~8–122♥
HCR, worse than 2NT2♠
natural raise, ~6–10 hcp2NT
invitational plus support3♣♦
invitational 6+ (good) suit3♥
jump cue, mixed raise3♠
~4–7 semi-preemptive/cooperative3NT
natural4♣♦
fit jumps4♥
splinter4♠
obstructive wide range, non-cooperative as responder passed
1NT
usual ~15–18, beware downgrade too many honours/length in the opponent's suitbid
system on2♦
♥ shortage (transfer to their suit)(any)
X
negative of natural bidsOthers
Lebensohl system
2♣
normal overcall, virtually deny ♠s2♦
switch (transfer through), 5+ ♠2♥
Einar Cue2♠
natural, minimum 2 or 3 ♠s2NT
F1, (semi) natural3♣
NF
2♥
HCR2♠
5+ ♦s3♥
force, not einar as above 3♦, stop ask implication initially
2NT
natural, NF3♣
natural, limit raise3♦
fit jump3♥
splinter3♠
fit jump4♦
splinter
2♦
normal overcall, virtually deny ♠s2♥
transfer 5+ ♠s2♠
about minimum, often 2/3 cards3♥
forcing3♠
invitational, non-minimum4♥
splinter, ♠ support
2♠
HCR2NT
natural, NF3♣
natural, invitational3♥
splinter3♠
fit jump4♣♦
fit jump
2♣♦
normal overcall, virtually deny ♠s(2H)
opponents raise2♠
natural, decent 6+ cardsX
5 or bad 6 card, tolerance for minor suit
2♥
♠ + minor, Michaels, not strong(Dbl)
whatever(3H)
opponents raiseX
♠ invitational3♠
competitive3NT
to play4♣
pass/correct4♦
good 4♠ bid, offensive e.g. ♥ shortage4♥
N/A forgot that 4♦ is conventionally a good ♠ raise4♠
to play4NT
minor ask, slam interest
(4H)
competition4♠
to play4NT
minor ask, slam interest5♣
pass/correct5♦
good 5♠ bid
(2x/3CD)
intervenes3♦♥
♠ invitational3♠
competitive4♣
pass/correct4♦
good 4♠ bid, offensive e.g. ♥ shortage4♥
N/A forgot that 4♦ is conventionally a good ♠ raise4♠
to play4NT
minor ask, slam interest
2♠
to play2NT
minor ask, invite plus3♣♦
♣/♦ weak3♥♠
♣/♦ (Lissabon like) and extra values
3♣
pass/correct3♦
♠ game try, good 3 card spade raise, 2 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits)3♥
N/A, assume forgot and same as 3♦ game try bid3♠
mixed raise, 4 trumps, 2 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits)
2♠
weak jump, response as 6 card weak two2NT
both minors3♣♦
to play3♥
general force3♠
natural, NF4♣♦
good minor raise, either 3 cards + 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits) or 4 cards + 2 useful features
3♣♦♠
preempt weak/intermediate3♥
stopper ask, with solid outside minor
...
(1H)–1♠–(X)
Pass
possibly trap with later doubles for penalty, 0/1 card support for overcaller's majorXX
~10+ values with exactly doubleton support1NT
♣s, 6+ hcp, sound weak two or better 6+ cards OR 5 cards and will bid again, or lead directing 4+ suit with 3 card support2♣
♦s2♦
transfer HCR ~11+ support points, 3+ card support2♥
transfer raise, ~8–10 support points, 3 cards, worse than mixed raise2♠
natural, very weak, ~4–7 useful support points2♠
(after 1H overcall) NF, ~10–12 and good 6 card suit2NT
invitational plus support3♣♦
fit jump3♥
mixed raise3♠
preempt, 4+ cards, ~4–73x
invitational, 6+ new suit
(1H)–1♠–(higher)
2 level+ bids, raise or new suitX
values 9+2♣♦
new suit, NF constructive ~8–122♥
cue, HCR, worse than 2NT2♠
natural raise, ~6–10, 3 card support2NT
invitational plus support3♣♦
invitational, 6+ suit3♥
mixed raise3♠
preempt, ~4–7 good support4♣♦
fit jump
(1H)–1♠–(1NT)
X
values ~9+, maybe moderate NF support2♣♦
natural, NF constructive ~8–122♥
HCR ~11+, 3+ card support, worse than 2NT2♠
natural raise, ~6–102NT
invitational plus support3♣♦
invitational, 6+ suit3♥
mixed raise3♠
preempt, ~4–7 good support (co-operative weaker)4♣♦
fit jump4♥
splinter
(1H)–1♠–(2H)
X
values 9+, responsive2♠
normal single raise2NT
invitational plus support3♣♦
invitational, 6+ suit3♥
HCR, precisely invitational weaker than 2NT
(1H)–2♣♦–(2H)
2♠
natural, NF constructive ~8–12X
5 or bad 6 card ♠ suit, tolerance for minor suit, NOT HCR double2NT
invitational plus raiseCue
force, maybe stop looking or strong HCR
(1H)–1♠–(3H)
X
relay, Lebensohl like3♠
competitive
(1H)–(Any) Sandwich Position
(1H)–(2H)–X
balancing takeout double, they bid ONE major suit (pointless over minor or 2 suits):2♠
OBAR competitive2NT
scrambling (takeout) OR 4 ♠s invite3♠
5 ♠s invite
When we - takeout doubler and advancer have PASSED (or just 2NT bidder) it's also scrambling:
(1H)–(any), X then 2NT is scrambling
(1H)–P–(1S)
X
takeout1NT
natural, system on (assuming light openings and responses by opponents)2♥
special case ♠s + minor, Michaels, sitting over ♠ bidCueOver
natural, sitting over
(1H)–P–(1NT)
2♣♦
natural, maybe 4 card ♠ suit with 6 card minor hoping to bid ♠ later2♥
Michaels ♠s + minor2NT
Unusual (3 unbid suits so not better Michaels), ♣s + ♦s3♣♦
normal jump overcall
(1H)–P–(2CD)
X
takeout, but implies 5–5+ looking for sacrifice2♥
Michaels ♠s + minor2NT
Michaels, ♠s + minor, better often 6–53m
cue responder, natural
(1H)–P–(2H)
X
takeout
2NT = scrambling, later double 3 bad ♠s, later 3♠s 3 good ♠s2NT
minorsothers
as Opponents open 2♥
(1H)–P–(3H)
or artificial bergen 3♣/♦ etc. limitX
5 ♠s + long minor when opponents have a 10+ limit raiseX
takeout v.s. weaker mixed/obstructiveothers
as Opponents open 3♥
(1H)–P–(4CD)
(or 3♠) natural short splinter
(1H)–P–(4H)
X
general takeout including ♠, 4th or 6th
4NT = choose a minor
4th Balancing 1♥
Summary
(1H)–P–(P)
1♠
maybe 4 card avoiding 1NT1NT
11–15(16)2♣
staymanic range askOthers
1NT system on
2♥
Michaels2♠
natural ~10–132NT
19–21 natural3x
natural intermediate4x
natural
Opponents open 1♠
(1S)–X
(1S)–X
Takeout1NT
natural ~8–112♣♦
to play, shape, improving the contract, must GF cue bid or jump (invitational) to show stronger minor hand2♥
normal, stronger than 1♥ overcall(2S)
re-compete3♣♦
shape, improving the contract3♥
normal, stronger than 1♠ overcall
2♠
strong, forcing, invite plus, will rebid, not GF2NT
artificial F1, 4♥s exactly, any strength3♣
NF, natural, without 4♥s3♦
roughly 2–3–5–3 or 1–3–5–43♥
GF, 17+, 5+ ♥s3♠
GF artificial, balanced OR both minors3NT
natural, ~18–204♣♦
GF, 5(6)+ minor
3♣♦
~12–143♥
invitational ~10–11 (not double jump, so not ~6–8), usually 5 cards as 4 card invite can use 2♠ cue
(1S)–X–(XX)
pass
nothing to say, maybe quite strong3♣♦♥
weak
(1S)–X–(1NT)
X
4–4+ two suiter, including ♥s
(1S)–X–(2NT)
X
responsive, exactly 4 ♥s (not standard X implying a minor)3♥
co-operative, natural3NT
sacrifice suggestion, good 4+ card support
(1S)–X–(2S/3S)
opponents open and major raise to two/three levelDbl
responsive maybe include 4♥s without stop or 5♥s card invite or Thrump over 3♠2NT
artificial F1, 4♥s exactly, any strength3♥
invitational, usualy 4♥s not 5♥s
3♣
NF, natural, without 4♥s3♦
roughly 2–3–5–3 or 1–3–5–4 (strong without normal takeout double)3♥
GF, 17+, 5+ ♥s (fast arrival)3♠
GF artificial, balanced OR both minors3NT
natural, ~18–204♣♦
GF, 5(6)+ minor power double(3S)
competition
Others
RLEB over 2♠4♥
5+ ♥ suit (possibly 4 card e.g. AKJ9)5♥
Lackwood
(1S)–any–(cue)
HCR typicallyX
"Stolen" bid, double I would have bid that.
(1S)–X–(4S)
X
values, not necessarily a major
(1S)–Overcall
(1S)
1NT
passed hand 5–5+ ♥ + minor, weaker than 2♠ overcall♣/♦
pass/correct, any level
1NT
usual ~15–18, beware downgrade too many honours/length in the opponent's suitbid
system on2♥
♠ shortage (transfer to their suit)(any)
X
negative of natural bidsOthers
Lebensohl system
2♣
normal overcall, virtually deny ♥s(P/Dbl)
limited interference2♦
transfer 5+ ♥s2♥
NF, 2 cards or 3 cards boring hand2♠
general force (2♥ was bypassed so not Einar)2NT
F1, (semi) natural3♣
NF
2♥
switch ♦ replacement, 5+ ♦s2♠
Einar Cue (as have room to bid 3♦ still)
2♠
HCR2NT
natural, NF3♣
natural, limit raise3♦♥
fit jump3♠
splinter
2♦
normal overcall, virtually deny ♥s2♥
natural, NF constructive ~8–12 (no transfers too high)2♠
HCR / general force2NT
natural, NF3♣
natural, invitational3♦
natural, limit raise3♥
fit jump3♠
splinter4♣
fit jump
2♥
natural, sound(P/Dbl)
opponent responds below 2♠2♠
HCR, ~11+ support points2NT
natural, NF3♣♦
natural, invitational3♥
competitive, ~6–10 support points3♠
splinter4♣♦
fit jump
(3S)
competitive or inviteDbl
Thrump primarily stop interested, but maybe relay competitive3NT
stop4♣♦
competitive, to play4♥
competitive
4♣♦
GF, natural4♥
to play (slam unlikely over their opening bid)
2♠
5–5+ (♥ + ♦ unlimited) OR (♥ + ♣ strong)2NT
minor ask, invite plus3♣♦
♣ strong / ♦ weak3♥♠
♣ mega strong / ♦ extras (Lissabon like)
3♣
pass/correct3♦
♥ game try, either 3 cards + 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits) or 4 cards + 2 useful features3♥
to play3♠
good 4♥ bid, offensive e.g. ♠ shortage(3S)
competitive or inviteDbl
Thrump primarily stop interested, but maybe relay competitive3NT
to play4♣
pass/correct4♦
good 4♥ bid, offensive e.g. ♠ singleton4♥
to play4NT
minor ask, slam interest
(4S)
competition4NT
minor ask, slam interest5♣
pass/correct5♦
good 5♥ bid, offensive e.g. ♠ singleton5♥
competitive
2NT
minors3♣♦
to play3♥
natural, NF3♠
general force3NT
waiting4♣♦
slam try4NT
double fit RKB
4♣♦
good minor raise, either 3 cards + 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits) or 4 cards + 2 useful features4♥
to play
3♣
5–5+, ♣s + ♥s, not strong3♦
♥ game try, either 3 cards + 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits) or 4 cards + 2 useful features3♥
to play3♠
natural, NF4♣
good ♣ raise, either 3 cards + 3 useful features (A, K or short in partner's suits) or 4 cards + 2 useful features4♦
Redwood, ♣ slam try4♥
to play4♠
Kickback, ♥ slam try4NT
double fit RKB
3♦♥
preempt weak/intermediate3♠
stopper ask, solid minor
(1S)–2♣♦–(2S)
3♥
natural, decent 6+ cardsX
5 or bad 6 card ♥ suit, tolerance for minor suit, not HCR double when 2♣♦ overcall of major - other major could still have a fit
(1S)–2♣♦–(2S)–P–(P)
Dbl
2♣♦ overcaller re-opening2NT
"four-five hearts 2NT" 4+ ♥s, minimum3♥
4+ ♥s, maximum OR some extra values with 5 ♥s
(1S)–2♥–(2S)
X
responsive/values 9+2NT
invitational plus support3♣♦
NF, invitational, 6+ cards3♥
weaker3♠
GF HCR, offensive e.g ♠ singleton4♣♦
fit jump4♥
more offensive/obstructive
(1S)–(Any) Sandwich Position
(1S)–(2S)–X
balancing takeout double, they bid ONE major suit (pointless over minor or 2 suits):any
Better Minor Lebensohl
When we - takeout doubler and advancer have PASSED (or just 2NT bidder) it's also scrambling:
(1S)–(any), X then 2NT is scrambling
(1S)–P–(1NT)
2♣♦
natural, maybe 4 card ♥ suit with 6 card minor hoping to bid ♥ later2♠
Michaels ♥s + minor2NT
Unusual (3 unbid suits so not better Michaels)3♣♦
normal jump overcall
(1S)–P–(2CD)
X
takeout, but implies 5–5+ looking for sacrifice2♠
Michaels ♥s + minor2NT
Michaels, ♥s + minor, better often 6–53m
natural, cue responder
(1S)–P–(2S)
2NT
5 ♥s and 4+ card minorothers
as Opponents open 2♠
(1S)–P–(4CD)
(or 3♥) natural short splinter
(1S)–P–(4S)
X
general takeout, some support for 3 suitsX
passed hand would be gamble 0–4–4–5, probably only NV4NT
true 2 suiter, maybe ♥s
4th Balancing 1♠
Summary
(1S)–P–(P)
1NT
11–15(16)2♣
staymanic range askOthers
1NT system on
2♠
Michaels2NT
19–21 natural3x
natural intermediate4x
natural
Opponents open 1NT
Competing over 1NT.
- Aggression is vulnerability and scoring dependent, e.g. NV matchpoints with 11+ then 4–4 majors may compete
Hand strength guide:
- Against a weak NT, we must be mostly constructive ~11–14, and even more so v.s. a weak NT at IMPs (unless already passed)
- Against a weak NT, there is risk in bidding but also risk in passing, so 13–14 hcp often need to do something
- 5 card single suiter bids should have some extras in shape/strength, e.g. 5–4–3–1 shape and 11–14(15) hcp
- 6 card single suiters can be a bit lighter but basically an opening bid
- The balancing position can be lighter, i.e. 10+ hcp for a normal hand against a weak NT and ~14+ for a "penalty"
double (at which point partner will probably run with less than 8 hcp)
- Max 7 losers, again, basically an opening hand
- Consider wasted honours and intermediate spot cards if it's a borderline maybe biddable hand, e.g. AK10xxx K10x xx xx
- The rule of 8 ( length(longest 2 suits) - LTC >= 2 then bid ) is too aggressive outside strong NT (mostly matchpoints) defence
- 5–5 two suiters may stretch to ~ 9 hcp
- Generally not balanced, including 5–3–3–2, until you have values for penalty double.
- Balancing 4–4 majors takeout maybe acceptable NV vs NV at matchpoints
(1NT)
X
penalty (14)15+ top of their range depending on tricks, unlikely very distributional
any = as 1NT EscapeX
(passed hand) ♣s + 4 card major
2♥ = pass/correct to major
2♠ = natural, single suiter2♣
majors(X)
any, ♣ suit / penalty normallyPass
4 card can playXX
5 good cards can playOther
system on
(2D)
any, lead directing normallyX
stolen bid doubleOther
system on
(2HS)
any, minors with preference normallyX
stolen bid double, competitive valuescue
stop ask probably, even with 2 cues freeOther
system on
(2NT+)
normally some lebensohlX
penalty, a delayed double can compete to the longest major3♥♠
invitational, or more competitive if delayed after forcing 2NT or transfer
Pass
very weak, usually 7+ clubs2♦
longer major ask, includes NT invite and minor escape2♥♠
longer major, or 2♥ 5–5 minimum2NT
naturalish value showing, invitational, may have long side suit3♣♦
weak, natural3♥♠
invitational, 3 cards often, 10+ hcp
2NT
5–5, extras3♣
artificial, 6–5 ♥/♠3♦
artificial, 5–6 ♥/♠3♥♠
maximum extras, 6–4, as top intermediate jump overcall
2♥♠
NF, natural2NT
relay, game interest3♣
minimum 5–43♦
minimum 5–53♥
maximum, 5♥–4♠3♠
maximum, 5♠–4♥3NT
maximum 5–54♣♦
6–5 long ♥/♠
3♣♦
♥/♠ invite3♥♠
invitational, other major shortage4♣♦
♥/♠ transfer (as over 1NT opening)4♥♠
to play, vague values
2♦
♦s + a major(X)
maybe ♦ penalty showing, maybe takeoutXX
values, may want to penalise2NT
good invitational ♦ raise, 4+ card support3♣
FNJ implication
(2HS)
natural interferenceX
support, 3 cards, values for 3 level2NT
good invitational ♦ raise, 4+ card support3♣
FNJ implication3♦
competitivecue
stop ask
(2NT+)
normally some lebensohlX
penalty3♣
FNJ implication3♦
competitive
2♥
pass/correct2♠
natural, NF, single suiter2NT
F1, game interest3♣♦
minimum with ♥/♠3♥♠
maximum with ♥/♠
3♣♦
NF, natural, invitational3♥♠
natural, forcing, maybe slam try fit jump4♣
fit jump, maybe slam try4♦
invitationalGame
to play4NT
♦ RKB
2♥♠
natural(X)
maybe penalty, maybe takeout2♠
natural, NF, single suiterXX
values, may want to penalisecue
of any implied suit, stop ask2NT
competitive mixed raise, 4+ card support3♣♦
FNJ implication3M
invitational, pass then bid for worse than mixed raise
(2S)
naturalX
support, 3 cards (not penalty at 2 level)cue
of implied suit, stop ask2NT
competitive mixed raise, 4+ card support3♣♦
FNJ implication3M
invitational, pass then bid for worse than mixed raise
(2NT+)
normally some lebensohlX
penalty3x
FNJ implication3M
invitational, or more competitive if delayed after forcing 2NT or transfer
2♠
natural, NF, single suiter2NT
F1, game interest3x
quasi-natural, extras, often 4 cards as rarely overcall 5–3–3–23M
weaker3NT
flattish/modest suit/stops, extras4M
maximum, 6 carder
3♣♦♥
NF, natural, invitational3M
invitational3♠
(over 2♥) natural, forcing, maybe slam try fit jump4♣♦
fit jump, maybe slam tryGame
to play4NT
RKB
2NT
minors OR strong majors3♥♠
NF, good 6+ suit4♣♦
obstructive
3♣♦♥♠
natural, intermediate, constructive - extra shape/length or 16+ unsuitable for penalty double3NT
to play, probably long minor4♣♦
preempt
(1NT)–X–(XX)
when penalty business redouble
(1NT)–P–(2♣)
anythingX
values, strong NT type hand over weak NT only2♦♥♠
natural2NT
both minors, decent hand3♣+
natural, with above 3♦ being too strong to only bid at the two level
(1NT)–P–(2♦)
X
values, strong NT type hand over weak NT only2♥
Michaels if 2♦ transfer3♦
Michaels if 2♦ natural
(1NT)–P–(2♥♠)
More
similar to (1NT)–P–(2♦)
Strong NT Defence
- Minimum 14 hcp
- More aggressive, especially NV with offensive hands
- 5–5/6–4 carders ~8 losers or better
- 5–4/6 carders ~7 losers or better
- No detailed responses written down, just play 2NT (or cue bid) as the only way to start more constructive bids by advancer
- 2♣♦♥♠ are basically natural direct pressure bids
(1NT)
Strong NTDbl
majors OR some extra strong overcall2♣♦
(lowest minor available) longer major ask
2♣
♣s and a major2♦
major ask2♥♠
natural, NF, single suiter2NT
f1, constructive3♣
obstructive3♦
natural, NF, single suiter
2♦
♦s and a major2♥♠
natural2NT
f1, constructive3x
quasi-natural, extras3M
weaker4M
maximum, 6 carder
other
natural, NF, single suiter
2NT
minors two suiter OR strong constructive majors two suiter3♣♦♥♠
natural, offensive
When opponents run from 1NT doubled
As 1NT Interference and Lebensohl
- Minor cue is majors, jump cue strong majors.
- Strong 3x jump overcalls
- Leaping michaels
(2C)
X
takeout
2NT = natural (no need for any competitive 3x bid)
3♣ = forcing2♦♥♠
natural2NT
16–193♣
majors, any strength3♦♥♠
natural, strong4♣
♦s + ♥s, GF4♦
♦ slam try4♥♠
to play4NT
♥ RKB5♣
EKB5♠
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest
4♦
♦s + ♠s, GF4♥♠
to play4NT
♠ RKB5♣
♦ slam try (not EKB, no ♦ slam try available otherwise)5♦
to play5♥
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest
(2C)–P–(2♦)
X
♦ lead directingothers
as over their 2♣
(2C)–P–(2♥♠)
X
other two suitsCueResp
psyche exposeothers
as over their 2♣
(2C)–P–(2NT)
X
majorsothers
as over their 2♣
Opponents open Strong 2♣
Double always majors and NT minors. Really should be 5–5+.
(2C)
X
majorsNT
minors(2♦♥)
artificial
Opponents open Multi 2♣
Frequently the Weak 2♦, or a standard strong 2♣. Treat as weak 2♦ defence, but with extra takeout option.
- Double one major takeout
- 2♦ two majors takeout
(2C)
X
takeout, only one major implied
any = Lebensohl system2♦
both majors takeout2♥♠
natural, decent 5–6 card suit2NT
natural3x
NF, invitational, ~7–11, no support
2NT
natural, 16-18 balanced. Could have 4 card ♥/♠, NT scheme follows.3♣
natural
Opponents open Artificial Strong 2♣ 2♦
This is a catchall for bids such as
- 2♣ balanced 18–21 hcp, or similar 18+ range
- Mexican 2♦ balanced 18–19 hcp, or similar 18+ range, may or may not allow 5 card majors
- Optional strong, Acol 2 strength or GF, unknown suit (until opener describes hand further)
Pass then double could in theory be used as takeout. Mainly just treat similar to Strong 2♣ defence.
As Opponents open Weak 2♦, strength adjusted
Opponents open Precision 2♦
Treat as an intermediate 2♣ opening, with care for bad major breaks.
Opponents open Multi 2♦
- Bid naturally with decent 5–6 card suits or Strong NT hands.
- Weaker suits maybe bid on the next round
- Unlike common X showing weak NT defences this has more chance of penalising opponents.
- Double is like a takeout of a weak 2♥ (assumed)
- 3M Strong jump overcalls
- Leaping michaels
(2D)
Pass
maybe 4 ♥ and opening valuesDbl
4 or 5 poor spades(P)
2NT+
Better Minor Lebensohl
(2♥♠)
further interferenceX
♥s, it's our hand good 8+
2♥♠
natural, decent 5–6 cards2NT
16–19 NT3♣
stayman, simple version
3♣♦
natural, opening bid or better3♥♠
natural, strong3NT
natural4♣♦
minor + major, GF4NT
minors, stronger
(2D)–P–(2♥♠)
Dbl
4 or 5 poor spades2NT+
Better Minor Lebensohl
(2D)–P–(2♥)
Pass
maybe limited ♥ hand hoping partner will double after with passing minimal opening ♥ values
(2D)–P–(2♥)–P–(P)
Dbl
penalty/values, max 3 card ♠ suit, limited in values so a risk
(2D)–P–(2♥)–P–(2♠)
Dbl
takeout with 4 or 5 poor ♥s2NT+
Better Minor Lebensohl
Opponents open Weak 2♦ 2♥ 2♠
(or jump overcalled)
- Bid naturally with decent 5–6 card suits or Strong NT hands.
- Balance overcall strength with vulnerability, length in their suit and overall shape
- Shortage in their suit can be more aggressive, as partner may struggle to bid
- 3M Strong jump overcalls
- Leaping michaels
(2D)
X
both majors takeout
any = Weak 2♦ Lebensohl system2♥♠
natural, decent 5–6 card suit2NT
natural3x
NF, invitational, ~7–11, no support4♣♦
fit jump
2NT
natural, 16-18 balanced. Could have 4 card ♥/♠, NT scheme follows.3♣
natural3♦
majors, any strength3♥♠
natural, strong, ~16–184♣
♣s + ♥s, GF4♦
♥ slam try, first step 1+ KC4♥♠
to play4NT
♣ slam try5♣
to play5♦
EKB5♠
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest
4♦
♣s + ♠s, GF4♥♠
to play4NT
♣ slam try5♣
to play5♦
EKB5♥
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest5♠
♠ slam try
4♥♠
to play, distributional4NT
minors5♣
natural, roughly 4 level strong jump overcall values
(2H)
X
takeout
any = Lebensohl system2♠
natural2NT
natural3x
NF, invitational, ~7–11, no support4♣♦
fit jump
2NT
natural, 16-18 balanced. Could have 4 card ♠, NT scheme follows.3♣♦
natural3♥
michaels ♠ + minor, limited wide range3♠
to play3NT
to play4♣
pass/correct4♦
good 4♠ bid4♥
N/A forgot that 4♦ is conventionally a good ♠ raise4♠
to play4NT
strong, minor ask
3♠
natural, strong, ~16–184♣
♣s + ♠s, GF4♦
♠ slam try, first step 1+ KC4♥
♣ slam try4♠
to play4NT
RKB double fit5♣
to play5♦
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest5♥
EKB
4♦
♦s + ♠s, GF4♥
♠ slam try4♠
to play4NT
RKB double fit5♣
♦ slam try, second step 1+ KC5♦
to play5♥
EKB
4♥
minors, slam interest 3 losers or better4♠
to play, distributional4NT
minors5♣♦
natural, roughly 4 level strong jump overcall values
(2H)–X–(3♥)
X
responsive, values, ♠ length unknown4♥
4 card ♠ suit and a minor
(2S)
X
takeout
any = Lebensohl system2NT
natural, 16-18 balanced. Could have 4 card ♠, NT scheme follows.3♣♦♥
natural3♠
michaels ♥s + minor, limited wide range3NT
to play4♣
pass/correct4♦
good 4♥ bid4♥
to play4NT
strong, minor ask(4S)
competition4NT
minor ask, slam interest5♣
pass/correct5♦
good 5♥ bid, offensive e.g. ♠ singleton5♥
competitive
4♣
♣s + ♥s, GF4♦
♥ slam try, first step 1+ KC4♥
to play4♠
♣ slam try, second step 1+ KC5♣
to play5♦
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest5♠
EKB
4♦
♦s + ♥s, GF4♥
to play4♠
♥ slam try, first step 1+ KC5♣
♦ slam try, second step 1+ KC5♦
to play5♠
EKB
4♥
to play, distributional4♠
minors, slam interest 3 losers or better4NT
minors5♣♦
natural, roughly 4 level strong jump overcall values
(2S)–X–(3♠)
X
responsive, values, ♥ length unknown4♥
competitive
(2S)–X–(4♠)
X
values4NT
artificial, two suiter OR game going ♥s5♣♦
to play5♥
slam try, natural
(2x)–P–(P)
X
takeout, protective ~10+ hcp for more penalty opportunity, but consider the strength
that opponents can pass with
As Opponents open Weak 2♥ 2♠, strength adjusted
Opponents open 2♦ or 2♥ both Majors
Two or three choices for Ekren (chrisryall.net/bridge/weak.two/generic-defence.htm),
even possible to play the Multi 2♦ defence.
- Strong jump overcalls
- Pass then double 12–14 flat
- double 15+ flat, 2–2+ majors, limited stops
- 2NT 16+ flat, good stops
(2DH)–X
OR
(2DH)–P–(2♥♠)
X
15+ balanced not 2NT quality stops, 2–2+ in ♥ and ♠Further
doubles (or passes) are penalty showing 4+ cards sitting over, 3+ cards sitting under.
(2DH)–P–(2♥♠)–P–(P)
X
12-14 balanced (pass then double)
(2DH)
2♥♠
natural, sitting over 4cM hopefully2NT
16+, double stopped, balanced-ish3♣♦
good single suited (maybe 4 card major)3♥♠
natural, strong4♣♦
natural, GF4♦
Redwood4♥
(over both 4♣/4♦) natural4NT
RKB over ♦, natural over ♣
Opponents open 2♦ or 2♥ Flannery
5♥–4♠ intermediate (note some play 6♥–4♠ or even 5♥–5♠) hands.
- Treat as weak 2♥ opener with Lebensohl over takeout X
- 2NT responses do not need stayman / ♥ transfer so use as natural weak 3♣/3♦
(2D/2H)
P...X
sound ♥ takeoutX
light ♥ takeout
More = Lebensohl, usual weak two defence2♠/3♠
natural normal/strong2NT
natural, ~16–193♣♦
weak, natural (stayman or ♥ transfers inappropriate here)others
2NT system
3♣♦
natural, decent for vulnerability
Opponents open 2NT Minors
- space exists to immediately separate 5–4 v.s. 4–5 major hands and to separate strengths with immediate bid
or delayed bid (a weakness of artificial preempts)
- double strong balanced / 18+
- 3♣♦ cue as sound takeouts with major preference
- pass then double optional for weakish takeout
(2NT)
Pass
maybe weakish majors takeout or major overcallX
strong balanced or 18+ strong major3♣
5+♥s, 4+♠s, sound values3♦
5+♠s, 4+♥s, sound values3♥♠
sound overcall4♣
majors two suiter, strong4♦
slam try4♥♠
to play5♣♦
EKB
(2NT)–P–(3♣)
X
strong balanced3♦
takeout for majors4♣
majors two suiter, strong
(2NT)–P–(3♦)
X
takeout4♣
majors two suiter, strong
An alternative would be 3♣ both majors and 3♦ multi-like some weaker major overcall. Less majors definition with 3♣ but
advancer can ask for the longest with 3♦.
Opponents open 2NT Natural
X is majors takeout, NT is minors.
Opponents open 3♣♦♥♠
- Normal takeout doubles, conservative opening bid values 12+, assumes ~7–9 hcp from partner
(3C)
4♣
majors two suiter, GF ~4 losers4♦
slam try4♥♠
to play5♣
EKB5♦♥♠
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest
4♦
♦s + major, GF ~ 4 losers4♥♠
pass/correct5♣
slam try5♦
to play5♥♠
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest
4♥♠
to play4NT
♥s + ♦s, ~3 losers5♦
natural, roughly 4 level strong jump overcall values
(3D)
4♣
♣s + major, NF non-leaping4♦
slam try4♥
pass/correct4♠
pass/correct to 5♣5♣
to play5♦
EKB5♥♠
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest
4♦
majors two suiter, GF ~ 4 losers4♥♠
to play5♣
slam try5♦
EKB
4♥♠
to play4NT
♥s + ♣s, ~3 losers5♣
natural, roughly 4 level strong jump overcall values
(3H)
Dbl
takeout4♥
two suiter4♠
to play4NT
♠ RKB
4♣
♣s + ♠s, NF non-leaping4♦♥
♠/♣ slam try4♠
to play5♣
to play5♦
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest5♥
EKB
4♦
♦s + ♠s, NF non-leaping4♥
♠ slam try4♠
to play5♣
♦ slam try5♦
to play5♥
EKB
4♥
GF, ♠s + minor4♠
to play4NT
minor ask5♣♦
to play5♥
EKB5♠
♠ slam try
4♠
to play4NT
minors5♣♦
natural, roughly 4 level strong jump overcall values
(3S)
Dbl
takeout4♣
♣s + ♥s, NF non-leaping4♦
♥ slam try4♥
to play4♠
♣ slam try5♣
to play5♦
natural jump new suit, self-sufficient, slam interest5♠
EKB
4♦
♦s + ♥s, NF non-leaping4♥
to play4♠
♥ slam try5♣
♦ slam try5♦
to play5♠
EKB
4♥
to play4♠
♥s + minor, ~3 losers4NT
minors5♣♦
natural, roughly 4 level strong jump overcall values
(3x)–X–(4x)
X
takeout with decent values, inviting penalty pass
Opponents open 3NT
Whether a gambling solid/broken minor with/without side honour or a similar solid major.
Limited space, so double is rather catchall with 4♣♦ bids special major bids:
- one bid for majors 5–4+ (with room to separate the longer suit)
- one bid for stronger major 2 suiter
- 3NT double includes ♦ overcalls
- 4th double takeout
(3NT)
Dbl
Various-
strong balanced (first assumed type)-
strong 3 suited (will re-open X after escape)-
one suited with ♦-
maybe weaker than a direct overcall of 4♥♠(4CD)
run outX
general values
4♥♠ = 5+ card major pull
4♣
5–4 or 6–4 majors4♦
both majors, 5–5+ (OR natural vs solid major 3NT opening)4♥♠
natural4NT
minors (over solid major 3NT)
Same in 4th.
(3NT)–P–(4C)
X
5–4 or 6–4 majors4♦
both majors, 5–5+
Opponents open 4♣♦ preempt
(4CD)
X
takeout4NT
naturalCue
2 suited, unspecified over 4♣ and both majors over 4♦
Opponents open 4♣♦ SAT/Namyats
Showing good ♥/♠ major preempt, maybe minimum opening values.
- cue with 2 suiter
- 2nd double takeout, not showing that suit
- pass then bid with weaker distributional OR balanced hand (double)
(4C)
Pass
usually weak, maybe strong NT+ if re-open doubleX
takeout of ♥, normal takeout values - does not need to be that strong4♥
♠ and minor 2 suiter4♠
natural, delayed bid would be weaker4NT
minors, delayed bid would be weaker
(4C)–P–(4♦)
asking bidX
lead-directing/sacrifice interested, especially NV vs VUL
(4D)
Pass
usually weak, maybe strong NT+ if re-open doubleX
takeout of ♠, normal takeout values - does not need to be that strong4♥
natural4♠
♥ and minor 2 suiter, very strong4NT
minors, delayed bid would be weaker
(4D)–P–(4♥)
asking bidX
lead-directing/sacrifice interested, especially NV vs VUL
Opponents open 4♥♠
- Double is more nebulous values
(4H)
Pass
usually weak, maybe good defensivelyX
takeout4♠
natural, wide hand variety4NT
takeout, minors5♣♦
natural, maybe sacrifice at good vulnerability5♥
♠ + minor 2 suiter, very strong
(4S)
Pass
usually weak, maybe good defensivelyX
values, expect to defend unless partner extra offense4NT
takeout, 2 suiter emphasis
Opponents open 5♣♦
(5CD)
X
values, expect to defend unless partner extra offense5x
natural5NT
lower suits takeout
Slam Bidding
Meta agreements and some slam finding conventions
General Strategy
- when one knows that we lack the assets for slam (regardless if controls are good), or controls are known to be missing
then sign off - a basic principle!
- slam trys opposite a very limited hand are serious, that is not highly speculative, so when slam is possible opposite
a perfect minimum range hand
- serious slam trys opposite very limited hands imply that we have the assets for slam and that only controls matter
- very limited hands should therefore show controls below the trump suit and not worry about extra values
- somewhat limited hands (e.g. 11–15) can e.g. bypass 4M with some extras and a missing control
- somewhat limited hands (e.g. 11–15?) may skip control showing if minimum and bad fitting
- neither cue bids nor last train show better hands than the other, flexibility is needed to get the most useful
information
- skipping cue bids up the line to use last train would usually imply someone has a wide range, perhaps the last train
bidder has something but a weak hand
- after both partners cue bid, should we last train at all? perhaps only if both are ambiguous wide ranging? how wide?
- splinters usually imply a hand that won't go to slam without a fitting hand from partner - consider if bidding on
regardless that maybe it's best to find a way to control bid without revealing your shape, however, maybe the fitting
hand was required for the grand slam and not the small slam
- statistically do not expect a splinter to line up well against a strong 20+ balanced hand - it is likely they have
some wasted values, though you maybe ok opposite a shapely hand (e.g. Acol 2) that is more based on tricks
- the responder to a splinter can go on with enough extras despite not fitting (e.g. ~13+ opening values outside splinter suit)
- the cue bidding style means we do not show shortage in partner's suit, even though with a big trump fit it can make sense
- supporting partner's suit after agreeing a different trump suit is natural double fit finding if we have only shown 2 suits
- with only the trump suit shown, the first slam try is a natural suit, (v.s. 1c–1M–3M with singleton ask)?
- ?? distinguishing serious v.s. non-serious (fitting and max required) slam trys is more a concern for natural wide
ranging systems. Is 11–15 wide enough for the distinction to matter, e.g. 1♠–2♥–2NT–3♠, 1♥–2♦–2♠–3♠? Is 3NT more
a wait/punt the same as old school cue bidding without serious 3NT?
- 3NT is natural, not serious in specific situations where a limited semi-balanced hand is expected, i.e. 1♥♠–2NT–3♣♦♥–3NT
- minor contracts distinguish serious/non-serious via 4NT optional RKB (when have fit), auto RKB, a negative/natural 4NT
(without a fit), finally leaving a freebid of the unbid suit as a general waiting last train like bid. 3NT is natural,
not serious
What is 4NT?
Natural quantitative, to play, ace asking, key card asking, takeout or other?
Minor Agreed 4NT
- both minors supported, two 8+ card fits - Double Fit RKB
- jump 4NT - quantitative
- non-jump 4NT with limited hand - natural, to play
- after Redwood - natural, to play (not King ask etc.)
2NT Auto RKB Module
Special case - a natural 2NT opening or rebid takes a lot of space and is a bit of a slam killer. Often a
minor suit may not be shown until the 4 level making agreeing and using something like Redwood impractical. After
showing a new minor at the 4 level:
- next suit "last train" like (NOT Redwood), such as 3 card support, 3 keycards but something bad like xxx trump support
Bidding 4NT changes to be minor RKB! This is an exception to the general rule of 4NT never being used as RKB/Redwood for a minor -
it's normally only quantitative. 5x free bids are auto RKB, similar to the direct bids.
Beware there's a special case in the Minor slam tries module where the next suit is 5♣s
instead of last train.
- other spare bids (e.g. ...4C–4H/4S) are control bids: good hand with support
Bidding 4NT changes to be minor RKB! 5x free bids are auto RKB, similar to the direct bids.
- direct 4NT is "negative", bad support and/or just 3 cards with few keycards (i.e. 2 keycards)
PASSABLE. May also escape to the minor (e.g. perhaps they actually had 6 cards) or use Auto RKB.
- direct 5m is fast arrival, 4+ card support, but otherwise bad keycards.
Usually passed or raised to 6m. Presumably 5NT King ask or a 3rd round control ask are still on if responder is good
enough to search for the grand opposite the presumed 2 keycards.
- 5x free bids are auto RKB, RKB step responses that cannot use 5m as a step, usually 3+ keycards as often forced to
slam
Minor Lissabon follow on
Whilst there's even less room in this situation, the 4NT negative and auto RKB bids also apply after minor showing
Lissabon bids (2NT–4HS).
Over 2NT–4♥ there is space for a last train bid, but over 2NT–4♠ it's not available
Major Agreed 4NT
- two suits naturally supported, at least one major, two 8+ card fits - Double Fit RKB
- raised or set suit - RKB
- long good 6+ suit implied (eg. 3 level jump overcall) - RKB
Others 4NT
- Partner never bid - Takeout
- 1 minor then over jump 4 level interference - Takeout/Unusual
- jump response to Takeout double without interference - Quantitative
- jump 4NT with all suits bid and no fit found - Quantitative
- jump 4NT when easy way to force and set suit major available - Quantitative
- 1NT opened or overcalled, and no major set, and after non-slam try stayman transfers - Quantitative
- NT bid raised (including "NT" bids by artificial means) - Quantitative
- non-jump 4NT with limited hand - natural, to play
- long natural major (1♥/♠) then over jump 4 level interference - RKB
- long natural minor (2♣/♦) then over jump 4 level interference - Quantitative
Cue Bids
Italian style, showing 1st or 2nd round control.
Initiation should not be made with just a second round control or two of course.
Initiator probably has 2 first round controls and a second round control in the third
suit unless very distributional. Responder can afford to have a less decent hand and
let the initiator push them.
- Assume 3 level bids are natural, even if possibly cues to start slam probes
- Jumping to 4 level ambiguously (4 minor or new major after 1st round of bidding) is a cue bid
- control bid of my already naturally bid suit shows 2 top 3 honours (AK, AQ, KQ)
- control bid of partner's secondary (not trump) suit shows 1 top 3 honours
- bidding past game implies control of the other remaining suits
- 5 level cue bids are dangerous, would imply a void or possibly controls in partner's suit pushing for a different
specific cue bid if Lackwood cannot help
- 5 level cue bids are 1st round controls
Opponents Double Our Cue Bid
E.g. 1♠–2NT...4♦ cue then (X) lead directing
4♦-(X)
example Cue, A, K, void, singletonNewCue
no problem, new cue bidPass
usually no control, asking partner to clarify cue bid
XX = Ace (or void if splintered)
NewCue = KQ or singleton in first Cue suit
SignOff = unprotected King, no shortage, no AceXX
Queen with no higher honour, supporting a King in partner's handSignOff
just bad values
- In many fit showing auctions we play 3NT as "Serious" prompting further control bids
- After a fit is found the next bid should allow double fit showing
1♠–2♥–3♥
raise, non-specific strength, cannot play 3NT3♠
confirms double fit, NOT a cue bid3NT
Serious
Slam Convention Interference Defence
Your enquiry asking bids (e.g. RKB, Gerber, Free 5M raise) can disturbed by:
- opponents bid their suit(s) below our suit sign off
- opponents bid their suit(s) above our suit sign off, or even bid our suit
- opponents X the asking bid
- opponents X the asking bid and it's above our suit sign off
step response type conventions
Interference for ALL can be done with DOPI / ROPI
- X = 0 steps (e.g. 1/4 RKB, 0/3 EKB)
- XX = 0 steps (e.g. 1/4 RKB, 0/3 EKB)
- Pass = 1 step (e.g. 3/0 RKB, 1/4 EKB)
- Others = 3rd step, 4th step etc.
Note, if playing more monotonic responses, e.g. 0,1,2,3 then DOPE/ROPE can make more sense over the higher interference,
but we do not use standard blackwood or similar conventions
ask type conventions
Queen ask, King ask etc. Interference at this point is extremely unlikely. These bids usually ask for specific
information so passing it back around to partner doesn't help
- XX natural where to play reasonable (especially our main suit as 5x redouble +1 is > 6x)
- IGNORE it
RKB 4NT
4 Ace key cards + King trumps. "1430" step responses.
- 5♣ = 1 or 4 kc
- 5♦ = 3 or 0 kc
- 5♥ = 2 kc
- 5♠ = 2kc with Q trumps (or known 10+ trump cards)
- 5NT = 2 or 4 kc + some useful void
- 6x = 1 or 3 kc + void in specific suit
- 6slam = odd kc + void in higher suit
void response continuation with no room below slam
e.g. they bid 6♦ and ♥s is trumps
6other
request King, bid 7 if you have this King
4NT–5NT/6x
next
EITHER any/some unknown K ask when one below slam OR request King ask with more spacehigher
King Ask with space
Queen Ask
The next/cheapest (non-trump) suit is the Q ask OR trump suit over 3 or 0 response (pass without 3 keycards).
- This includes bidding past the agreed suit, e.g. 4NT–5-♦–5♠ with ♥s agreed, but promises all
keycards and is grand slam try.
- Could be used even with the Q to find extra trumps
- Follow on asks are specific King (not King show) or 3rd round control asks where no room to ask for a specific King
When can sign off at 5 level
5trump
no Q5NT
Q (or known 10+ card fit), something inconvenient (i.e. higher suit King)6other
3rd round control ask (if they have something inconvenient you also cannot do a request King bid!)
5x/6x
side K, have Q trumps (or known 10+ card fit)6other
request King, bid 7 if you have this King
6trump
Q (or known 10+ card fit), nothing extra, fast arrival
When forced to slam
5x/6x
side K, have Q trumps (or known 10+ card fit)6other
request King, bid 7 if you have this King
5NT
Q (or known 10+ card fit), nothing else biddable6other
3rd round control ask (if they have something inconvenient you also cannot do a request King bid!)
6trump
no Q
King Ask
Show ask for specific kings (not count of Kings)
- 5♦ for ♣ fit (4D Redwood + 1 level, a.k.a T+1 - Trump+1)
- 5♥ for ♦ fit (4H Redwood + 1 level, T+1)
- 5NT for major fit (4NT RKB + 1 level, T+1)
Following on, any suit is a King request to bid grand (do you have this specific King?)
6x
lowest side K, 1 or 2 Kings6other
do you have this this King6lower
no, but this other K6trump
no6NT
yes, Kxx+7other
yes, Kx7trump
yes, I forgot this nonsense
6slam
no side K6NT
3 Kings
??? 6x-6other-6n as yes have 2nd king but cannot bid 7 in case of 6NT probe
New Suit 3rd Round Control Ask for Grand
Spiral scan without Q/K asks? Spiral scan also exclusive to this?
Hmm, maybe Queen only?
More complicated responses are:
(1) Make a first step response, including 6NT with third-round control Qx(x), Ax, AQx
(2) Make a second step response with second-round control Kxx(x)
(3) Make a third step response with Kx
(4) Raise the ask bid with KQx and JUMP to the trump suit with a singleton
- Asked to bid 7 if have a 3rd round control - queen or doubleton with 9+ trump fit
- Mutually exclusive to the King Ask!
- Free bid suit (often at the 6 level) that is not a sign off
The subletly is when the free bid is a sign off or not. For simplicity, then assume it's a natural sign off even after
RKB bids involving a different suit if:
- prime first bid suit could be 6+ cards AND it's a 6 level bid
Redwood for minors
4♦/♥ as RKB for ♣s/♦s (or 4♠ for ♦s when ♥s is natural)?????????????????????
- If there is lower level force in the Redwood suit (e.g. ♥s when playing ♦s), then a jump is Redwood
- again, unless it's illogical for the bid to be the final contract then bids of 4♦ or 4♥ should be
taken as NATURAL. E.g. 1♥–2♦–3♦–4♣–4♦–4♥, responder probably has doubleton ♥ suggesting 4♥ contract, no ♠ control
Furthermore:
- 4♠ is Redwood for ♦s WHEN 4♥ would be taken as natural
Still, if a natural 4♠ is not illogical, then only 4NT can be used as ♦ RKB.
E.g. 1♠–2♥–3♦–4♥, either 4♥ or 4♠ suggests an alternative game.
Cue Opponents Suit in Competition is Control Bid not Kickback/Redwood
- simple cue bid in competition is a control, not RKB
- next bid up is RKB if it's not possibly a final contract
E.g. 1♠–(P)–2♣–(3D)–4♣–(P)–4♦ responder shows a ♦ control and 4♥ is Redwood RKB.
When ♥s and opponents bid ♠ - 1♥–(P)–2NT–(3S) then later 4♠ bid is a control and only
4NT is RKB for ♥s.
??????????????????????????????????????
Baron over 4NT Quantitative
- instead of passing or bidding 6NT, we can optionally look for a fit with up the line Baron bids of 4+ card suits
- 5NT can be a final place to play
Jump Cuebid in Competition
Always a splinter
Double Fit RKB
4NT
when two 8+ card fits are known.
- 1/4
- 3/0
- 2/5 + zero queens
- 2/5 + one queen
- 2/5 + two queens
Beware of counting extra length as Queen with double fits, unless there is extra length in both suits or the
other Queen can be seen as the tricks must run from those two suits.
Double Fit Queen Ask
Step responses:
- none
- lower ranking queen
- higher ranking queen
- both queens
EKB Voidwood
Shows a void in the suit bid and asking for keycard showing step responses using 03/14 keycard, not the usual 1430 style.
Primarily a jump bid, higher than a typical splinter bid, though could be a raise of a shortage bid.
- ♣s agreed then 4♥+ above Redwood
- ♦s agreed then 4♠+ above Redwood
- ♥s agreed then 4♠+
- ♠s agreed then 5 level
Other points:
- all jump bids unless you are single raising a shortage showing bid - if it's a natural suit / honour length control
then it's showing honour controls for "partner's" suit otherwise it'll be EKB
- can in principle do EKB in partner's first bid suit after agreeing a different suit, but BEWARE we play 1♠–2♥–3♥–4♠
as a picture raise!
- endeavour to explicitly set trumps first where there are potentially ambiguous auctions and ways to force, especially
in competition as 5x jump bids may sound like preemption
- note 1♥♠–5x is EKB (but not 1H–4S reasonable game to preempt, so set trumps first), also 2♣♦–4♥+ are natural, set trumps first
- beware that you can handle all the EKB responses and if not, consider something like Jacoby 2NT first or possibly an
initial splinter
- jump cue with minor fit still has Redwood as priority, e.g. 2♦–(2H)–4♥, 2♣–(2D)–4♦ Redwood
- NOT directly over preempts (2H up to 4D), only possible if set trumps somehow
Non jump bid EKB exceptions
Competition from the opponents then cue bidding their suit "above game" (above Redwood for minors):
- (1S)–X–(2S)–4♠ EKB
- (1S)–2♥–(3S)–4♠ EKB
- (1S)–3♥–(4S)–5♠ EKB
- (2D)–4♦–5♦
- (2NT)–4♣–5♣ (2NT as both minors)
- (3C)–4♣–5♣ (4C majors)
- tinyurl.com/yt569ok4
- repeating a cue bid at the 5 level?
Transfers over NT hands:
- 1NT–4♣♦–4♦♥ then non-jump rare as slam is very speculative for these hands (start with 2x transfer with void otherwise)
- 2NT–3♦/3♥ then transfer break and non-jump
- 2NT–4♣♦ Lissabon slam try in a major
EKB Responses
4x/5x
EKBxstep
0/3, 1/4, 2, 2 with step responses, 5th step = 2 KC + some void, 6x = 1 KC + that void (or higher suit)1step
first (non-trump) suit - Q ask6void
ace of void suit, have Qothers
normal Queen Ask
5NT
K ask, same as RKB6x
(no 5NT available, queen known) substitute K ask - or leave as 3rd round ask?
tinyurl.com/y6yv5m8r
EKB King Request when no 5NT available
5♦–5NT
EKB response taking up 5NT6♣
asks for that specific King, bid 7 with ♣ King6♦
asks for that specific King, bid 7 with ♦ King6♥
asks for that specific King, bid 7 with ♥ King
Preempt RKB
Specific situations when responder is known to be weak (opening a preempt). Steps responses limited to 2 keycards:
- 0 keycards
- 1 keycard
- 1 keycard + Queen of trumps
- 2 keycards
- 2 keycards + Queen of trumps
Lackwood
- 5x major raise
- Lacking any control in a KNOWN suit, e.g. pre-empted by opponents 1♠–(4H)–5♠ or bypassed when control bidding
- Can help with Last Train taking a cue bid, if only trumps and the last train suit are missing treat the last train suit as lacking
- With multiple potential lacking side suits treat as the Free 5x Major Raise convention
- Void treated as first round control and a keycard, only a 5NT response would lead to NTs
Responses:
5M
LackwoodPass
no first or second round control5NT
Kx(x...) guarded6♣
first round control of lacking suit, odd keycards count - 1/31below
vague Last Train grand try
6♦
first round control of lacking suit, even keycards count - 2/41below
vague Last Train grand try
6M
second round control
Free 5x Major Raise
This asking bid can be given a multi meaning (control of opponents or unbid suit), but for ease,
normally used only as a trump quality ask.
5♥♠
Pass
0 or 1 top honour5NT
AK + extra length6♣♦♥
Solid suit and 2nd round control6♥♠
raise to slam, 2 of top 3 honours
Iff it's obvious to both players that we have all the top 3 honours, it could be used as a 2nd round or better control
ask for some other suit, which should also be obvious.
5♥♠
(when obviously we have all the top honours)5NT
have guarded 2nd round control, e.g. KQ6x
cue bid in other suit shows 1st round in the implied asked suit.6♥♠
raise to slam, have 2nd round control in implied suit
5NT Pick a Small Slam
- 5NT asks partner to make a judgement, pick a small slam. Usually where some distributional information is missing.
- There is no grand slam interest!
- This maybe a jump (2NT–3♥–3♠–5NT) or a non-jump (often in competiton e.g. 1♠–(5♦)–5NT)
- In competition it's often similar to an unusual/two-suiter NT
- Does not apply where 5NT is a follow on after RKB/Blackwood etc. that asks for Kings etc.
Sometimes pick a small slam makes zero sense:
- Where there is nothing to judge and no strong trump fit then 5NT retains the quantitative to 6NT/7NT meaning
- When a good 9+ card fit is known then it could be interpreted as GSF asking for 2 of top 3 honours, but this is very
unlikely as RKB would probably be used instead, so best not considered
5NT v.s 6other in Competition - Turbo Inspired
Turbo is the Italian slam bidding conventions where bidding 4NT shows even keycards and bypassing it to normally cue bid
at the 5 level shows odd keycards. This can be a good convention to generally play (instead of RKB) if you have a good
handle on the point counts one another has, and so can distinguish e.g. 1 vs 3 keycards. Even without playing the main
part of Turbo, it has utility in competition.
Sometimes the opponents really preempt our space and we are considering a small slam vs grand slam. Specifically, we
have not been able to use 4NT RKB bid as they have preempted to the 5 level. At that point:
- 5NT shows an even number of keycards
- 6x control shows an odd number of keycards (often this is the opponents suit)
Double of Opponents' Slam
As arguably it does not make much difference if a slam goes one off doubled vs not doubled
for freely bid slams (not sacrifice), X is used to ask for an obscure lead (*Lightner*).
Of Suit Slams
- never trumps
- not suits bid by our defending side
- not the opponents' obvious unbid suit
Of NT Slams
- dummy's first bid suit
- something "unusual"
Forcing Pass Auctions
When opponents have competed and our side has the large majority of values
- pass shows nothing special
- presumably happy to sit a double from partner
- happy to play e.g. 5♥ over there 4♠, not looking for slam
- X warns against competing, though can with a really offensive hand
- With no room e.g. 5♠ over 5♥, 5x implies offensive hand, some slam willingness
- With room the bid of an in-between suit (with room) is a real slam try
- With room the direct 5x bid is an offensive hand, denying serious extras
Splinter/Cue bid and Losers/Cover Cards etc.
Cover cards (and maybe losers - losing trick count) is mentioned in some contexts such as splinters over 1♥/1♠ opening.
Mostly useful for game/slam suit contract evaluation, but may still have some relevance for NT, though the tricks
need to be quicker and not based trumps or shortages.
Responder shows some cover cards and opener looks at their losers to calculate the expected trick count.
LTC
Losing trick count is an old method defined as
- 3 losers per suit, 2 partners so 24 losers max
- 24 minus the combined losers suggests the number of available tricks
- Aces and Kings are not losers, except the singleton King
- Queens vary depending on supporting honours
- Maybe used to limit opener's hand instead of pure hcps for suit contracts, examples such as...
- 11–15 1 level opener ~7 losers max
- 16+ hand 6 losers max
- GF rebids after a response in standard bidding ~5 losers max
- GF opener ~3 losers max
- 2 level preempt 6/7 losers
- 3 level preempt 7/8 losers
LTC honour values:
- Void = 0
- A = 0
- A K = 0
- A K Q = 0
- A K x [x x. . .] = 1
- A Q x [x. . .] = 1 (tripleton or more)
- A x = 1
- A x x [x. . .] = 2
- K = 1
- K x = 1
- K x x [x. . .] = 2
- K Q = 1
- Q J [x. . .] = 2
Side suit adjustments to LTC include:
- A J 10 [x...] = 1.5 losers
- Q x x = 2.5 losers
- Q 10 x = 2 losers (Queen honor support)
- A Q = .5 losers
- A Q x = 1 loser
- J 10 x = 3 losers
- Q x = 2 losers (but are considered a "plus")
Cover Cards
Cover cards are easier to calculate and reason about than LTC, so whilst opener may define themselves in terms of
losers, responder may quantify their strength in terms of cover cards, essentially playing tricks.
(Opener's LTC - responder's cover cards) = total losers
- Counts winners that "cover" opener's losers, much like quick tricks
- A/K = 1
- Singleton = 1 (if there is a trump length)
- Q = 1 iff in a useful suit, e.g. opener's suit or a bid side suit
- J = 0.5 iff in a long combined suit
- 4th trump = 0.5
- QJ = 0.5, maybe in other suit (QJXX in trumps is 2 cover cards 1 + 0.5 + 0.5 - Q + 4th trump + J)
- xx = 0.5, maybe in other suit for ruffing
Naturally, responder may need to re-evaluate cover card usefulness if partner shown to be short in a suit
Suit raises are roughly:
- Single = 1.5 / 2
- Limit = 2.5 / 3
- Game = 3.5 / 4
1♥♠ Slam Tries
Splinters or new suit 2/1 GF or Jacoby 2NT? In general note:
- After a 2/1 GF new suit Opener's rebids focus on showing shape before strength
- Jacoby asks about singletons or extras instead of showing anything
- After a Jacoby 2NT opener's minimum no singleton hands will often be 5 cards
- There's often no easy way to know if partner has 6+ cards, but this can be helped by the Last Train convention
as the extra shape is what should swing a hand to more tricks
With 3 card support
- Only 2/1 GF or Jacoby 2NT.
- 2/1 GF is best when (1) 5+ suit suit 2/3 top honours so partner can evaluate honour support (2) 6+ card suit self-sufficient that could become alternative trumps
- Jacoby 2NT is likely more flat (or very strong) and wants to hear if partner has a fitting singleton, or even good 5 card side suit
- When previously playing a forcing NT it was not appropriate - the only slam try bids over that are splinters for opener's second suit if shown. Note GF 4–4–4–1 hands with singleton in partner's suit started with 1NT.
With 4 card support
- We play two-tiered splinters that should often be used, but beware e.g. 1♥–4♦ takes up a lot of space
- 2/1 GF is harder to use if there is also a side singleton as we may not be able to splinter it or assumed only 3 card
support splinter, however if the side suit is the main potential source of tricks then it is more important to show it
than to splinter
- Jacoby 2NT is unlikely a singleton, though could be very strong, e.g. 17+. Again, mostly bid to drive the auction by asking and not showing.
Picture Raises
Jump bidding partner's suit after showing a side suit
- shows good trumps and good side suit source of tricks
- styles vary, 3 card support and 3 top 5 or 2 top 3 honours is our minimum standard
- 4 card support raise trump quality is less of a concern
Picture Raise Jump level
- Jumps below game shows a some outside controls (outside of trumps or our side suit) - 1♠–2♦–2♥–3♠
- Jumps to game show good trumps and side suit, but no outside controls
Single Raises Ambiguous with Picture Bids
An auction like 1♠–2♣–2♠–3♠ is more ambiguous as the only jump is to game, denying outside controls. Therefore the 3♠
bid example could be a good hand with side suit and outside controls interested in slam, or it could just be waiting on
the way to game
1♥–1♠ auctions?
- Possibly used with similar intention to 2/1 GF - there is an artificial GF over the 1NT rebid and FSF over second suit rebids
- 1♥–1♠–2♥ has limited slam try options though, 3♣/3♦ GF quasi-natural then bid beyond 3NT or 4NT ♥ RKB
- Going past 3NT after FSF should always be assumed first major suit support as there are other slam try bids for the second bid suit
Serious 3NT
- Shows extras in shape or strength beyond what currently indicated, e.g. 1♠–2♥–2♠–3♠–3NT opener doesn't have a hand
good enough for a 3♠ rebid (1 loser suit), but has extra in shape/strength e.g. AQJxxx x Kxx Axx with top range points
and a 6 card suit
- Only in a GF and major raised/agreed (not simple preference). Examples include 2/1 GF bids then raises, 1♣–1♥–1♠–3♠, Odwrotka responses showing
6+ cards, agreed major after FSF or 1NT Stayman/Smolen and some after a 1♦ opening.
- Most auctions where it's relevant are noted explicitly
- After Jacoby 2NT the 3NT bid is not serious - unlike standard systems 2NT can be bid with only 3 card support so over
minimum responses it's natural to play and over stronger responses it's a relay for details
- Similarly after Odwrotka not all 3NT bids would be serious unless one partner shows beyond minimum length
- Direct control bids bypassing 3NT are now more informative in case partner has significant extras, e.g. 1♠–2♥–2♠–3♠–4♣
with KJxxxx x KQx Axx a minimum but partner may only need a ♣ control. Bypassed suits deny controls.
- There are some strong hands that can comfortably just bid RKB immediately, in which case serious 3NT or cue bids can be ignored
Last Train
With parallels to Serious 3NT, more bids to show extras that have not been communicated.
The 4x Last Train bids show too much to sign off, but too little to bid RKB.
The main Last Train bid is one step below game with an agreed major:
- 4♦ when ♥s agreed
- 4♥ when ♠s agreed
- Only in a GF and major raised/agreed (not simple preference)
- NOT when SERIOUS 3NT could be bid on that round
- Still useful when serious 3NT was possible, e.g. 1♥–2♦–2♥–3♥–3♠–4♣–4♦ decided to show the ♠ control instead of
bidding 3NT serious, so extras are still possible
- With interference aswell, e.g. 1♥–(3C)–4♣–(P)–4♦ shows extras from opener after the HCR
Additional variations used in less obvious auctions include, 3x and 5x Last Train bids:
- The 1M–2M or 1M–1NT–2x–2M short/long suit game try follow ons may leave space one under 3M which doesn't have a
useful meaning beyond showing slight extras, e.g. 1♠–2♠–3♦–3♥
- Higher pre-empted auctions, e.g. 1♠–(2D)–4♠–(5D)–5♥ showing offensive extras and good slam chance if partner has
a couple of useful cards/controls.
System Philosophy
- Optimize for IMPs/Rubbers, that is bidding games and slams rather than yet more ways to compete for part scores
- Modern bidding is competitive, where possible have agreements to allow fast auctions and competitive bids in addition to constructive
bids. Sharing strength and shape information quickly in the face of competition is more important than slow start
super scientific relay methods (though artificial bids/relays may exist later in some auctions - after competitive threats
are gone).
- Optimizing to get into the right games/slams means fewer aggressive high variance (sometimes more fun) bids, e.g.
2♦ Intermediate Opening is a bit difficult to construct over (though still usefully competitive), but there
to make other 1 level openings more precise. A multi 2♦ allows more fun aggressive bids plus a place to put one
strong constructive bid but loses the intermediate opening thus making a 1♦ opening very vague. By not playing a
multi 2♦ we cannot (accurately) play 5 major + 4 minor weak twos AND 6 card major weak twos. We also cannot play a fun weak only 2♦, 5 or 6 card.
- Fewer high variance bids includes not making crazy bids - e.g. on flat hands that have little lead directing values and
are likely to just give away information etc. We don't need to pressure less experienced opponents if it's also going to
risk partner putting us in the wrong contract. Stick to the expected ranges for bids. Some places that is a tight range and
others it's looser (3rd position bids, P–(1♣)–1♠ overcalls etc).
- Accept the occasional bad result due to luck in the opponents' high variance or the weaker parts of our system
- Weak 2♥/2♠ are 5+ (NV) 6+ (VUL) card constructive (1 honour, 7–10(11) hcp) in 1st/2nd when vulnerable. When NV we
require high quality 5 carders, aswell as the tight point range, to keep the constructive aspect. 3rd is undisciplined
of course. We state that we have a constructive aspect - we specifically do not follow a wild preempt style in
1st/2nd, even though there may still be bidding theory debate about benefits of aggressive bidding, especially 1st
position moreso than 2nd position. Going more aggressive NV at matchpoints in 1st position may have merit!
- Wide ranging openings are imprecise and make judging games/slams difficult, especially in competition. Yet we do want
to open almost all 11 counts (perhaps not some 4–4–4–1 hands or bad majorless vulnerable hands) to compete - those balanced 11 hcp hands are very frequent.
Naturally we choose to use an artificial 1♣ opening to limit the 1♦/1♥/1♠/2♣/2♦ openings. So called natural systems
often use a prepared club and a slew of later artificial bids in a struggle to limit themselves.
- Bidding shapely hands quickly and clearly without promising many hcp is very important, whether showing 5–5/6–5 hands with jump
rebids, weak jump shift responses or bidding with less than the standard 6 hcp over 1 level openings. Limited openings really help here.
- The 1♣ and often 2♣ openings are the weak points of an artificial club system. It's hard to construct accurately over an
intermediate 5 card 2♣ opening, therefore it promises 6 cards unlike many of the older 5 card variants played in
Precision/Swedish club systems. The competitive/preemptive benefits of 2♣ with 5 cards are limited.
- A Swedish like artificial 1♣ opening (two way weak NT or strong) stops opponents bidding purely destructively, but when
they do bid aggressively the auction can be more difficult. The 1♣ opening is usually a weak NT, not strong, and having
separate bids (1♦ for 11–13 NT and 1♣ for ((13)–15) helps define those hands quickly. It's somewhat arbitrary but the
weak hand opening 1♦ arguably competes better.
- An unbalanced 1♦ opening is nice (natural competition in ♦s), but not nice enough to require playing a wide range weak
NT (12–15 1♣ opening) or passing various 12 hcp hands (13–15 NT). We want to bid those highly frequent 11–12 hcp balanced hands.
- 10–15 is slightly too wide ranging. Opening 10 hcp balanced (with 1♦) would be fun, but unlikely to play as it
struggles with constructive accuracy for IMPs/Rubbers. Unbalanced only 16 hcp hands open 1♣ strong, as
they are unbalanced there's a better chance of game at 24 hcp opposite any positive 8 hcp hand.
- Precisely bidding strong hands after opponents compete following our artificial 1♣ is difficult, but by playing a
strong 16–18 1NT opening and 2NT right after at 19–20 hcp, all strong 16–20 hcp 1♣ opening hands will be
unbalanced. Given that we open almost all 5–3–3–2 hands (even with 5 card majors), and some 5–4–2–2 hands
notrumps, ~ 55% of all 16–20 hcp hands will be classified as balanced. A strong 1♣ opening becomes low frequency and
when it does occur it's easier to bid out the shape. Removing some strong NT hands from the 1 suited opening bids to
improve constructive accuracy, especially in competition is a philosophy showing up in natural systems aswell - e.g.
Nilsland's Scanian 2♣ opener including 18–21 balanced hands and 2♦ showing 18–19 balanced in some Italian systems.
- Bidding flat hands quickly is important, much like limiting HCP ranges and bidding shapely hands clearly.
5–3–3–2 hands with a 5 card major, except for 11–12 (13) hcp 5 card major hands (1♦ opening constructive sequences
overloaded otherwise) should show a balanced hand straight away unless judgment strongly suggests otherwise.
5–4–2–2 hands with a long minor, and rarely 6–3–2–2, may also want to show a balanced hand.
- We give up a weak NT opening - a pairs optimization. The even stronger 16–18 NT gets a chance to bid in 3rd more
often as 1st/2nd will have fewer points. The risk of opening 2NT with 19 HCP is low, especially compared to the clarity
it gives to strong 1♣ club openings and the gains from many faster auctions (1NT–3NT, 2NT–3NT etc.)
- Four vs Five card majors, much like mini (NV in 3rd) v.s. weak v.s. strong notrumps, there are closely balanced pros
and cons. There is more five card major literature to draw from when selecting one to use with artificial 1♣
openings. Some of the benefits of 4 card majors are lost when all balanced hands are covered by specific bids (1NT, or
1♣–1NT rebid, though that leaves 1♦ as nebulous). 4 card majors does not fit with 2/1 GF responses and a forcing
NT, which could make slam bidding harder. 4 card majors may, with other changes, allow a natural 1♦ opening and free
up the 2♦ opening bid as a weak two.
This details of this system were initially taken from the Revision Club (v4.0 by John Montgomery) system, but with
some minor and notable changes. The 1♦ and especially 2♦ intermediate openings are influenced by IMPrecision (Adam
Meyerson) with the rest of the 1♥ through 4♠ openings initially taken from Revision Club. 1NT over a 1♥♠ opening is
"semi" forcing instead of forcing as in Revision. Swapping Revision's strong only 1♣ for a Swedish weak strong club
(based on Erik Sjostrand's write up) is the most obvious point of change. In many ways it's easy enough to swap back to
a strong only 1♣ opening, again potentially at the cost of having opponents bid more destructively over 1♣ and making
the 1♦ opening rather overloaded if we still want to open most 11–12 balanced hands. The competitive bids are heavily
influenced by Mat Nilsland's "Competitive Bids The Scanian Way" book and the 1NT/2NT responses are based off Nilsland's
notrump bidding books.
Leads, Signals and Discards
Given the style variability of top players, a clear understanding often matters more than the agreements themselves.
Whilst reverse (upside down) attitude signals seems better overall than standard attitude, most other choices are more
about partnership preference than any evidence for being "better". Some give count as the primary signal, others give
attitude and at times weight suit preference more highly. Some signal count mechanically, others are more flexible.
Suit Contract Opening Leads
3rd and Low
Leading 3rd and Low from broken honour sequences means 3rd highest from even and lowest from odd. To some players 3rd
and 5th may mean the same thing although it should really mean lead 5th highest when holding 5+ cards and 3rd highest
with 3 or 4 cards.
This provides clearer immediate count than 4th highest leads, which is more important when trying to cash out against
suit contracts.
MUD from xxx
Ace Lead for Attitude
Attitude request. Maybe no King when against:
- 5+ level contract
- 3+ level opening preempt
- other desparate try to find our tricks quick starts
King Lead for Count
Count asking from from AK+ or KQ+
As with NT leads, an alternative method to clear up this ambiguity when playing King count lead is some Rusinow style
leads, Q from KQ, J from QJ, 10 from J10 and 9 from 109. Harder to decipher when leading a doubleton, which is more
common in suit contracts than NT (e.g. from 10x or 9x).
Suit Contract Signals
Reverse Attitude on partner's lead (count where cannot beat dummy's Queen or lower)
A very high discard can be an alternative to encourage underleading, e.g. on Ace lead (often from AK) partner could
play the Queen showing the Jack or better.
If partners has lead a low card and you cannot beat a Q or worse in dummy then we should fallback to giving count.
3-way defensive signals (where long trump hand can ruff)
This commonly occurs after an opening lead when both partner's know that declarer will be able to ruff now, or more often,
if we continue another round of the opening suit. At this point suit preference or attitude could be correct. Attitude
could be used to encourage a force and suit preference to direct the switch. Assuming we can afford a choice of 3 cards:
- high card = high suit preference
- middle card = low suit preference
- low card = reverse attitude
Trump Echos on declarer's lead
Assuming we can afford to signal, e.g. they are obviously in control then high low echoes are a special reverse count
showing a 3 card suit, when it's safe to give partner count.
Note, alternatives are using high low as showing 3 trumps and ability to ruff a side suit, or as suit preference (high
medium low, or medium low high)
Count on declarer's lead
- Standard count, high even, low odd on declarer's lead
Reverse Attitude Discard
- the first discard has a primary meaning of reverse attitude: low encourage, high discourage
Count (optional) for Secondary Discarding
- after the primary reverse attitude discard, we can try to give partner count in suits, if we think they need it
NT Contract Opening Leads
King Power Lead
- Asks partner to give count or unblock.
- NOT in partner's known suit: play standard leads there
Queen Ambiguity
Due to the King power lead, the queen could be from:
Note, an alternative method to clear up this ambiguity when playing King power leads v.s. NT contracts is A from AK, Q
from KQ, J from QJ, 10 from J10 and 9 from 109. As with any Rusinow style leads this can be harder to decipher when
leading a doubleton, but that can easily be avoided at NT, plus when leading partners suits we play standard honour
leads.
Honour leads in general
- Ask for attitude (except the King power lead)
- usually an interior sequence e.g. queen from QJ9+ or QJ10 instead of bare QJx+
4th v.s. NoTrumps but 3rd and Low for Partner
With 4th highest (2nd from 9xxx or worse) leads from broken honour sequences the count is less clear, though the rule of
11 helps (11 minus spot card lead is how many higher cards than the spot lead in the other hands). In NT we are less
likely to want to burn a high spot card such as the 3rd highest.
When leading partner's known suit (5+ promised suit) we maximise count accuracy and played 3rd and Low as we do against suit
contracts.
MUD from xxx
NT Contract Signals
Reverse Attitude on partner's lead
For all except the King power lead, the primary signal is reverse attitude
As with suit contracts, when not being asked to unblock, a very high card can be an alternative to encourage
underleading, e.g. on an Ace lead partner could play the Queen showing the Jack
Smith Peter (Echo) on declarer's lead
- signal on declarer's lead in a different suit to the opening lead
- indicates attitude for the opening lead: high encourage, low discourage
- usable by the opening leader or their partner
- by the opening leader it suggests something better than expected or a very strong desire to continue the suit quickly
- by the partner it shows something extra
Whilst this is normally the highest priority signal at NT on declarer's lead, it s