System Notes for
Wayne Stuart and Wafik Abdou
TABLE OF CONTENTS
-----------------
Constructive Bidding Summary
General Approach
One No Trump Opening
Two No Trump Opening
Major Suit Openings
Minor Suit Openings
Strong Two Club Opening
Weak Two Openings
Three Level Preempts
Namyats
Jump Shifts
Fourth Suit Forcing
Negative Doubles
Responsive Doubles
Support Doubles
Maximal Doubles
Other Doubles
Unusual Vs. Unusual
4NT Quantitative
Roman Keycard Blackwood
Keycard Gerber
Grand Slam Force
Asking Bids
4NT DI
Forcing Passes
General Competitive Agreements
Defensive Bidding Summary
General Rules
Overcalls
Doubles
Michael's Cue-bid
Unusual No Trump
Balancing
Vs. No Trump
Vs. 1NT Overcalls
Vs. Negative Doubles
Vs. Weak Two Bids
Vs. Roman Two Diamonds
Vs. Flannery Two Diamonds
Vs. Flannery Two Hearts
Vs. Strong Two Clubs
Vs. Three Level Preempts
VS. Strong Club
Vs. Multicolored Two Diamonds
Vs. 2S Weak Preempt in Any Suit
Vs. 2NT Minors
Vs. 2NT Weak Preempt in Any Suit
Vs. 1S as a Forcing NT
Vs. 1NT as a Weak Takeout
Sacrificing
Miscellaneous Notes
Carding
Leads
Partnership Rules
Legend
-1-
GENERAL APPROACH
----------------
In first and second postions a two over one creates a game force.
1NT is semi-forcing but can be passed by a hand that would not bid
game opposite a 3 card limit raise. Opening bids in first and second
seat may be somewhat light; 5431 patterns with 11 HCP with good honor
count and location are acceptable. Major suits will virtually always
be of at least 5 cards in length and a one diamond opening will generally
have at least four cards in the suit. Jumps shifts are strong when into
a suit higher ranking than the opening bid and invitational when
into a lower ranking suit.
High reverses show either extra strength or extra shape. Rebidding
opener's suit does not guarantee six. A 2NT rebid shows some sort of
stopper in the other suits and can be made with a singleton in the 2/1
suit. Raising a two-over-one shows at least Qxx or better and some extra
values. Any hand with 4 trumps has extra values. 5-5 black suited hands
with not enough strength for a high reverse and an unrebiddable spade suit
can be opened with 1 club, although this is not the typical way of handling
5-5 in the blacks. After a 2/1, a reverse at the two level does not show
extra values.
In third and fourth seat even lighter openings may be made,
perhaps as light 9 HCP. However, not all hands will be opened
light. If a minor suit is opened it will have either full opening
bid values or a good suit. Majors may be of 4 cards of little
substance (QTxx). Jumps shifts are invitational and fit showing.
A raise of a minor suit two-over-one shows a good reason to think that
suit is a good place to play. Essentially, raising the minor shows
extras. Four trumps is always a raise. 2NT is natural with stoppers.
Rebidding the opened major doesn't show 6. Going past 2NT shows extra
values or extra shape.
Making a two over one response then jumping to game shows
minimum game going values with concentrated values in the
bid suits, typically denying first or second round control in
either of the other suits. 1S-2D-2S-4S is a picture bid auction.
A jump rebid after a 2/1 response shows a solid suit, AKQTxx or better
in a nonminimum hand.
When re-opening, new suits and jumps are non-forcing. Forcing hands
must start with double or a cue-bid.
-2-
One No Trump Opening
--------------------
1NT opened with 5 hearts more often than spades.
Good 5 card majors tend to be opened with 1M.
NOTE: What do you think of 14-16 NTs in 3rd seat?
1NT 15-17, Stayman, Jacoby transfers, Walsh relay, 2S MSS,
2NT->3C, 3m invitational, Texas->3C, negative DBL at 2+3 level,
Rubensohl
Stayman . Respond with hearts first.
. 2C may be to get out in 2 of a major.
. Stayman does not guarantee a four card major. It is the only
way to invite in NT. This is not alertable.
Rebids after Stayman:
3m 5+ cards and at least mild slam interest
3oM unspecified splinter
4C keycard (1430) for bid major or keycard Gerber (1430)
if diamonds were the response to Stayman.
4D balanced slam try with 4 card support for the bid major
(after 1NT-2C-2D- 4C Exclusion for diamonds
4D Keycard for diamonds
4H exclusion for diamonds
4S exclusion for diamonds
4NT quantitative with four in the other major
4oM asking bid in this suit
1NT-2C-2D-2S invitational with 5 spades and a singleton.
1NT-2C-2H-2S invitational with 5 spades and a singleton.
Competition:
If they double Stayman, then:
RDBL to play in clubs
PASS can tolerate clubs
RDBL penalty
2D re-Stayman
2H garbage Stayman
2D no club tolerance
Transfers: New suits after transfers are game forcing showing at least
four cards in the bid suit. After a new suit has been bid,
3M shows interest with the major as trumps, 3NT show no interest.
A cue-bid displays mild interest but unwillingness to go past
3NT. Raising the minor shows definite preference for playing
in the new suit above all other contracts. A jump shift after
a transfer is splinter.
Pre-accepting: After a transfer a jump to 3M is any minimum
with 4+ trumps. 2NT shows a maximum pre-accept with no ruffing
value or a ruffing value in hearts (so that responder can
retransfer) and 4+ trumps. Any new suit shows a ruffing value
in the bid suit, a maximum, and 4+ trumps.
A transfer to spades followed by 3H is 5-5 slam try.
-3-
Competition:
RDBL good w/no fit
PASS no fit
accepting shows three trumps
Walsh Relay: a transfer to hearts may not show hearts but may begin
different single suited slam tries which is shown by
bidding 2S after the transfer has been accepted. The
opener is forced to bid 2NT and now (1NT-2D-2H-2S-2NT):
3C/3D broken suit slam try in that minor
3H/3S 0 or 1 loser suit slam try in the corresponding
minor (1 loser being defined as KQTxxx or better)
3NT 7 solid in a minor, no more than a queen outside,
but may have a singleton or a void. 4C asks for
first or second round control. 5m is natural and
to play denying an outside control and 4NT is a
club control.
Walsh relay effects the pre-accepting structure in that
all pr-eaccepts of a heart transfer must begin with 2S
so that responder can show his slam try if that is what
he has. After 1NT-2D-2S (all pre-accepts) 3 of anything
shows a Walsh slam try. 2NT confirms hearts, after which
the NT opener can now show any maximum by bidding 3C.
3D is now a retransfer.
General guidelines:
- 2NT by the relayer always confirms hearts.
- 3D is always a retransfer if available.
Competition: If the opponents interfere after a Walsh auction:
1NT-(P)-2D-(2S)-P-(P)-DBL inv 5 hearts
2NT inv 6 hearts
3C broken clubs
3D retransfer
3H broken diamonds
3S solid clubs
3NT solid diamonds
2NT any pre-accept; responder follows
up as above
(3m)-3H pre-accept
3S any Walsh bid. 3NT signs off.
Bid suit to try again.
3NT 7 solid, no side high card control
4m natural 5-5 slam try
4S RKC
4NT ERKC for spades
-4-
1NT-(P)-2D-(P)-2H-(2S)- DBL inv with 5H
2NT inv 6 hearts
3C broken clubs
3D retransfer
3H broken diamonds
3S solid clubs
3NT solid diamonds
4m natural, 5-5
4S RKC
4NT ERKC for spades
2S-(3m)-DBL inv 5 hearts
3D retransfer (if available)
3H competitive if 3D not available
inv if 3D was available
3S any Walsh; 3NT signs off
try again by bidding your suit
3NT 7 solid with no outside control
4m natural 5-5
4S RKC
4NT ERKC for spades
-5-
Minor Suit Stayman (1NT-2S)
shows either good minors, bad minors, or weak diamonds
2NT don't have a 4 card minor
3C weak with both minors
3D weak with diamonds
3H 4-5 or better in minors
3S 5-4 or better in minors
Answer keycard skipping 3NT if you like it. The cheapest
bid after the keycard response is the next ask. 4NT and
5 of our minor are not asking bids but may be used for
responding steps.
3C 4+ clubs
3D weak with diamonds
2NT relay to 3C (1NT-2NT-3C)
Shows either a 3 suited hand or weak with clubs.
Suit bids after 3C are the suit below shortness
cue-bidding the shortness is a control ask with
the first step being 0-3.
3m shows a weak invitation and denys the ace of that minor.
3H/3S are invitational/forcing 5-5 in the majors but not a slam try.
(5-5 major slam tries are handled by transfering to spades then bidding
3 hearts.)
Texas Tranfers: A new suit after a Texas transfer is ERKC (1430)
-6-
Rubensohl
The opponents DBL (for penalty)
RDBL forces 2C to get out in 2C, 2D, or a bad 5-5 major hand
OTHERS are as if no double had occured
The opponents make a one-suited bid or a two-suited bid where
only one suit is known.
DBL negative, 6+ HCP, forcing to 2S
2X natural, to play
2NT forces 3C showing a single suit. There are
no exceptional hands.
2NT->3NT stopper in known suit
3X transfer to next higher suit, invitational or better
3NT no stopper in known suit
after 1NT-(2H)-2NT-(P)-3C-(P)-3S is invitational with clubs.
after 1NT-(2H)-3S is either 1 loser clubs with 1 stopper or
solid clubs with no stopper.
after 1NT-(2H)-DBL-(P)-any-(P)-3S 4 spades proposing the 4-3 fit
(similarly for 2H and 2D)
after 1NT-(DBL:one suited)-RDBL-(P)-P-(2D)-
DBL penalty
PASS forcing to 2H
DBL penalty
2H may be 4
A negative double followed by 3M proposes a 4-3 fit.
-7-
Cappelletti/Hamilton 2C or DONT/Brozel DBL
DBL 7++ HCP, not freakish with short clubs,
creates a force through 2S, subsequent bids are
Rubensohl, usually balanced, i.e.
1NT-(2C)-DBL-(P)-P-(2X)- Rubensohl is on
RDBL same as DBL but may have short clubs
2X natural and non-forcing
3X invitational+ transfer
P->2NT minors, competitive
p->3C clubs and the other major, invitational
p->3D diamonds and the other major, invitational
2NT invitational+ transfer to clubs
Landy 2C and Cappelletti 2D
DBL double their major if we can
3M natural and forcing
2H any game force, rebids after 2H:
3M stopper ask
2S competitive with both minors
2NT->3C competitive in one of the minors or forcing with
one major stopped
3M 6+ in a minor, stopper showing
3C invitational
3D invitational
3M splinter, could be 4-4 in the minors
2H showing both Majors
DBL penalty
3M natural and forcing
2S any game force
3M stopper showing
2NT->3C competitive in one of the minors
3M 6+ in a minor, stopper showing
3C invitational
3D invitational
3M splinter, could be 4-4 in the minors
Transfers
cue-bid is invitational or better without a stopper
PASS then Rubensohl is on.
Brozel
RDBL see one suit defense
DBL shows values (8+) and at least 3 of the anchor suit
Astro
DONT
-8-
Two No Trump Opening
--------------------
20-21 HCP "Turtle over 2NT"
3C stayman
3D no major; 3M next is Smolen
4C natural
5C Gerber (1430)
3H/3S
4oM Keycard
4NT quantitative w/4oM
4m 5+ and 4oM
3D transfer to hearts; pre-accept as in Walsh relay
3S cancels the transfer forcing 3NT, now:
4D 6+ clubs, 4 diamonds
4H 6+ clubs, 4 hearts
4S 6+ clubs, 4 spades
4NT One loser or better club suit
4C transfers to diamonds then new suits are as above
except with 6+ diamonds
3H transfer to spades
3S relay to 3NT showing a 3 suited hand - bid suit below short suit.
The cue-bid of responder's short suit is a control ask with the
1st step showing 0 or control. Steps increase by one control each.
3NT MSS answer keycard if a fit is found
4m natural and forcing to 4NT
4H 5-5 majors weak
4S 5-5 weak minors
5C Gerber
Smolen
2NT-3C-3D-3H-3NT-4D is 5-5 majors with some slam interest.
Competition
DBL negative if they bid a single suiter
-9-
Major Suit Openings
-------------------
1NT is semi-forcing. Opener may pass when he expects no game opposite
a 3 card limit raise. The following are responder's methods if opener should
happen to jump shift when responder was planning on making a three card limit
raise.
1M-1NT-3X
4M three card limit raise with poor slam values
new suits shows a three card limit raise and a
concentration in that suit
Major Suit Raises
1M
1NT->2M standard, (4-6 HCP if three trumps)
2M 6+ to 10-
1NT->3M 10-12, 3NT by opener is Serious slam try
3M 10-12, 4+ trumps
1NT->3NT hand upgrade
3NT 15-17 HCP
4X 8 to 11, splinter, 4+ trumps, at least 1 keycard
4M expectation of 4-5 trumps, shortness, 4-8 HCP
1M-2X-2Y(or 2M)-4M shows good trumps, good suit, no side controls
1M-1NT-4X 6331, 20 HCP
1M-1NT-3NT 15-16 HCP solid major
1M-1NT-2NT 18-19 HCP, now 3X are transfers
1H-1S-2NT is forcing. Jumps shifts are 5-5 or better hands.
NOTE: We need to lay out the jump shift structure.
- A transfer to opener's major followed by 3NT is choice of contract,
which generally shows a limit raise with scattered values.
- A transfer to opener's major followed by a new suit is a cue-bid
showing a limit raise with a concentration in that bid suit.
- A jump to four of opener's major shows a limit raise with poor slam
values.
- A transfer to opener's major followed by a raise shows 3 (or 4)
trumps and a really bad single raise.
- A transfer followed by 3 of opener's major is forcing, showing a
preference with honor doubleton looking for the best place to play.
Semi-Forcing NT
1M-1NT-2X-4X is a 9-12 splinter with three trumps
One Heart
1H-1NT-2C may only be a 2 card suit since opener could be 4522.
1H-1NT-2C-3D splinter for clubs
1H-1NT-2C-3H splinter for clubs
1H-1NT-2H
2S forces 2NT
2NT forced
3C 5-5 or better in the minors, pass or correct
3D raise with 2 small hearts
3H raise with Qx or better in hearts
3S ?
4C ?
4D ?
3S splinter with three trumps
4C,4D splinter
1H-1NT-2S natural, game forcing
2NT 5-5+ in the minors
3NT to play
1H-4S RKC for hearts
1H-4NT ERKC for spades
-10-
One Spade
1S-1NT-2C-2D (Bart) asks opener about his heart holding.
Heart support is defined as Jx or better.
Note that 2C may be bid on as few as 2 clubs
since we don't play Flannery and we are playing
Bart where 2D shows 4.
Auctions arising after 1S-1NT-2C-2D:
2H Jx or better, minimum
2NT scramble for a place to play 1-2-6-4
3C scramble for a place to play 1-3-5-4
3D constructive (8-10), 6 or 7 diamonds
2S less than Jx in hearts
2NT 9-11, 5 hearts
3C this is the contract
3D constructive (8-10), 6 or 7 diamonds
2NT 15-17 balanced with less than Jx in hearts
3C 5-5
3D Jx, maximum, no diamond tolerance
3H Jx, maximum, diamond tolerance
Auctions arising after 1S-1NT-2C (may be only 2 clubs):
2H 6+, not invitational, do not pull with a singleton
since responder didn't use Bart
2S natural
2NT natural
3C weak raise
3D weak 3D bid
3H strong club raise
Auctions arising after 1M-1NT-2D (shows 4+ diamonds):
3D weak raise
3H strong raise
1S-1NT-2S (can supress a four card heart suit if very minimum)
3H natural
3S 2 card limit
3NT 3(small) card limit with scattered values in all
other suits, since no other hand could force to game.
4C splinter
4D splinter
4H splinter
4S all other 3 card limits
Miscellaneous notes:
1M-1S/1NT-2m-2NT-3m non-forcing
-11-
Three Way Game Tries
1H-2H-2S short suit game try
2NT forced
1H-2H-2NT suit try in spades or power game try
3C accept suit try
3D accept power try
3H don't accept
3S at least 4 spades, forcing
1H-2H-3H asks for good trumps
Help suit game tries are QTx or better
Jacoby 2NT No strong side suit or better to let partner describe his
hand. 3NT is always Serious slam try.
3x splinter
3M A hand that has some slam potential. The Serious 3NT will
qualify responders cue-bids.
3NT 15-17 HCP
4X Good 5+ card suit, KJTxx is a minimum, but not a solid suit
4M No slam interest
1M-2X-2Y(or 2M)-3M at least one side control.
1M-2X-2Y-2M can be a doubleton.
1M-2X-3Y-3M can be a doubleton.
Competition (after 1M-(P)-2NT-(3X)):
PASS My bid was below their bid
DBL they took my bid
others as if no interference
Serious 3NT
At IMPs, any time an 8 card major suit fit is found 3NT is a serious
slam try showing extra values and demanding a cue-bid.
At matchpoints, a 9 card fit must be found for 3NT to be considered
a Serious slam try.
3NT is not a Serious slam try when:
- playing matchpoints and an 8 card major suit fit has been
found
- the hand bidding 3NT is limited to a very narrow range, like
3 HCPs, for instance.
-12-
Reverse Drury
is on over 1H-1S, but off in all other cases.
2D full opening bid. If responder signs off then 3 way game
tries are in effect.
2M responder should always pass
All direct bids past 2 of our suit are 3 way slam tries
Other passed hand bids - Flower bids
2NT is clubs
3X is fit showing
3M preemptive
1S-2H-3C-3S-4C-5C The 3S bid can be on a doubleton if you
are interested in finding out if pard is 5-5. After
4C (showing the 5-5) 4D should be cue-bid for clubs, not
spades. Therefore, 5C should be to play, not a cue-bid
for spades.
Splinters
1M-2X-2Y-splinter (i.e. 1S-2C-2D-3H) is a 3 card splinter for the
opened suit, not the second suit. This is because of the picture
bid philosopy.
Competition
After a T/O double we play transfers starting with 1NT. A transfer
into our suit is constructive raise.
RDBL opener should double on Qxx or better
2NT is a shaped limit (does not need to have 4 trumps)
3X fit showing
3M preemptive
1M-(P)-1NT-(2X)-DBL is shortness
P-1S-2D-2H - forcing
1S-(2D)-2H-(P)-
2S non-forcing
2NT forcing
3H non-forcing
1S-(2C)-2S-(3C)-DBL is shortness, minimum = Kxxxx,Axxx,AQx,x
If they balance, we double or redouble, and they run we are not
forced to bid again. If they come in between bidders then doubling
or redoubling creates a force. For instance:
(P)-1S-(P)-2S
(2NT)-DBL-(4D)-P
(P)- is forcing
Vs. Michaels (see section titled Unusual vs. Unusual)
-13-
Minor Suit Openings
-------------------
A minor suit opening bid may be as light as xx,xx,xxx,AKQTxx since
3N will often be the contract of choice after a minor suit opening.
Opening this hand also solves one of the problem hands when playing
aggressive preempts.
One diamond tends to be at least 4 cards in length. In response to
a 1C opening bid we bypass diamonds to bid a 4 card major with less
than a game forcing hand.
Hands with 4-4 in the minors tend to be opened with 1D.
1NT will not be opener's rebid with a singleton.
Responder's major is almost always raised with 3 card support.
1D-2H is 5-4 in the majors with 6-9 HCP or 5-5 in the majors with 4-8 HCP.
Hands with 4-5 in the minors are generally opened with a club unless
the clubs are not rebiddable, i.e., worse than KQTxx. Hands may be opened
with 1D, though.
-14-
Inverted Minors
1D-2D
2H artificial game force
2S limit raise; opener bids 2NT to ask for further
definition and responder rebids as below with
3NT replacing 2NT
2NT balanced game force with scattered values
3x singleton, game force
3 of the original minor is a balanced game force with
concentrated values. Subsequent 3 level bids are
stopper showing unless you bid again over 3NT in
which case previous 3 level bids become cue-bids.
Opener may show a singleton after 1m-2m-2H-2S/NT.
Bids of 4m are non-forcing unless an absolute game force
has been established (i.e. 1m-2m-2H-2S...4m non-forcing).
2NT 12-14 balanced; new suits by responder are shortness
3x 10 cards in 2 suits
3NT 18-19 balanced, poor slam values, usually only
3 card minor
Invitational Rebids:
1C-2C-2S stiff spade
1C-2C-2D other invitations 2H asks:
2S stiff diamond
2NT no stiff (2245)
3C stiff heart
1D-2D-2S some singleton, 2NT asks
3C stiff club
3D stiff spade
3H stiff heart
1m-2m-3m is weak.
Competition
1C-(DBL)-JS preemptive (except JS into the other minor)
1m-(DBL)-JSom shaped limit raise or better
1m-(DBL)-2NT balanced limit raise
1m-(DBL)-3m preemptive
1m-(DBL)-RDBL 10+ no lead value.
1C-(P)-2C-(2D)
DBL penalty
P 2D bid
other bids same (2NT requires a stopper)
1m-(P)-2m-(2M) DBL penalty
P 2H bid
2S if available is invitational with
shortness somewhere. 2NT asks.
3 of a new suit is length.
1m-(P)-2m-(2S)-P-(P)-DBL is a limit raise. Other bids as if
opener had rebid 2H. All 2NT bids require a stopper.
No conventions if they overcall higher than 2S.
-15-
Auctions arising from 1D-1M-2C
Auctions arising from 1m-1M-2m
After 1D-1S-2D-
2H not invitational
3C NMF; game forcing
3H invitational 5-4 or better
3S invitational with 6 spades
Auctions arising from 1m-1M-2M
2NT is an artificial force asking for further descripition:
3m 3 card raise, 5+ in the minor, non-forcing
3om 3 card raise, minimum, can't rebid the original minor (ick)
3M 4 trumps, minimum
3NT 3 card raise, maximum
JS hand too weak to have mini-splintered immediately
3m natural forcing game try. Sets trumps as the major
since you didn't go through 2NT. You must go through
2NT if you want to be able to get out in 3m.
1C-1H-3D invitational splinter
1C-1S-3D invitational splinter
1C-1S-3H invitational splinter
1D-1S-3H invitational splinter
1C-1M-2M-2NT-3C-3D is non-forcing.
When the responder is a passed hand 2NT may be passed. If opener
returns to his suit, it is to improve the contract.
Auctions arising from 1m-1M-2NT - Wolff Signoffs
3C->3D to play at the 3 level or...
3M to play
3oM mild slam try in the other minor
3NT mild slam try in opener's minor
3D New minor forcing
3M three card support; always bid hearts 1st.
That way if responder now bids 3S it is a
cue-bid for hearts.
3M forcing
3oM 5-5 or 5-6 forcing
4m natural, forcing
4oM weak and distributional
4NT quantitative
-16-
Reverses
We play that the cheaper of the fourth suit and 2NT are negative.
There are two cases when the fourth suit is below 2 of responder's
suit:
Reverse when the fourth suit is the negative response.
When the fourth suit is below responders suit:
A minimum hand for 1C-1S-2D would be Kxx,x,KQxx,AQJxx.
1C-1S-2D-2S forcing one round; asks for a raise
on A/K/Q and one.
2H would be negative but not deny 5S.
Reverses when 2NT is the negative response.
2NT->3C to play in a minor (weak 4-6 or in opener's minor)
opener should not bid out pattern with 3 card support
for responder's minor unless a game force is to be created.
anything other than 3C is forcing to 3NT or 4m.
responder's jump in his own suit shows 6+ and a game force.
all other bids are natural and forcing to game
2NT followed by 3M (responder's original major) shows 5 and
is game forcing
2NT followed by 3NT is 8-11
2NT followed by 4NT is 15-17
3NT is 12-14
In all reversing situations:
A reverse followed my a JS (1C-1S-2D-2S-4H) shows 4 trumps.
A reverse followed my 4M (1C-1S-2D-2S-4S) shows 3 trumps.
1C-1S-2D-2S-3S is forcing.
A rebid of responder's suit by the responder shows a suit which
can stand a raise on Qx or better.
Two Way Checkback
1m-1M-1NT-2C->2D forces 2D and starts all invitational sequences
or to get out in 3C.
2NT any 2NT invitation
3C invitational
everything else is invitational
1m-1M-1NT-2D forcing to game; openers priorities are:
a) 4 of the other major
b) 3 card support
c) 6 card minor
d) 5-4 in the minors
e) 2NT
1m-1M-1NT-2NT forces 3C for a weak 4-6 hand.
1C-1D-1NT-2C all invitations (1NT can have singleton diamond)
-2D game forcing
-2M natural, game forcing concentrated values,
tending to show at least 4-6
-2NT weak 4-6
Jump bids are forcing with pure values.
-17-
Competition
Vs. Michaels (see section titled Unusual vs. Unusual)
Vs. T/O doubles
new suits are forcing (including 1D-(DBL)-2C)
JS is fit showing BPH and weak by UPH
JS into the other minor is a shped limit raise while
2NT is a NT oriented limit raise. A jump raise is preemptive.
RDBL shows 10+ with no lead value for NT
1NT 8-10 with good lead value
1m-(DBL)-P-(2m)-DBL wants to compete to 3D
Vs. overcalls
1m-(1Y)-P-(2m)-DBL is T/O of their suit with at least
slight extra values.
1m-(1M)-P-(2M)-2NT is natural, may have 6 diamonds.
1m-(2M)-P-(P)-2NT is natural
1C-(1S)-DBL-(any)-DBL is strong and balanced.
Good/Bad 2NT (after 1m-any-1M-bid-)
In competitive situations 2NT shows either a weak 3m bid
or a very good 3m bid. Bidding 3m directly suggests the
typical 1m-3m type hand. The responder does not relay with
3C, but offers the cheapest place he is willing to play.
A general rule is that Good/Bad 2NT requires that a bid
come on the right of the opening bidder. Therefore,
1C-(2S)-DBL-(P)-2NT is natural.
After 1C-(1S)-DBL-(2S)
2NT-(P)-3C-(P)
3H bad with hearts
3S 3 card support, 18+ HCP, 2326 or 1336 are possible
After 1C-(1S)-DBL-(2S)
2NT-(P)-3D good hand, artificial
3H would rather play 3H than 3D
3S stopper asking
1D-(1S)-2C-(2S)- Good/Bad is not on.
-18-
Strong Two Club Opening
-----------------------
Two clubs is opened on balanced hands of 22 HCP or more. If the
hand is unbalanced and of less than 22 HCP it requires a minimum of
4.5 quick tricks. Control responses are used.
Initial responses to 2C
2D denies the values for another response, forcing to 2NT or 3M
2H->2S (Kokish)
2NT shows 24-25 and an immediate 2NT shows 22-23
2H 2 controls, game forcing
2S unspecified 5+ card suit with 2 of the top three honors
2NT 3 controls, game forcing. Over 3M, raise and 3NT are
forcing. Over 3m, 3NT is forcing. Over 3D or 3M, 4NT = RKCB.
3C 4 controls, forcing to 4NT
3D 5 controls, forcing to slam
3H unspecified 5+ card suit to the AKQ
3S unspecified 5+ card suit to the AKQJ
3NT 6 controls, forcing to slam
Competition
2C-(DBL)-P second negative
2C-(DBL)-RDBL 0-1 control but not second negative
2C-(DBL)-2D and up are normal but one step lower than with no
interference. After a 2H response, 2S natural, other
bids as over 2S.
2C-(2D)-P second negative
2C-(2D)-DBL 0-1 control but not second negative
2C-(2D)-2H and up are normal
No conventions if they bid 2H or higher.
2C-(2X)-P-(P)-DBL is takeout (2-level only, could have a doubleton).
3 of anything is natural since a takeout double was
available.
2C-(P)-2D-(3D)-DBL takeout
-P shows a balanced hand. It is expected that
we will double them, so in situations such as
the following, double is for takeout.
2C-(P)-2D-(3D)-P-(4D)-DBL
-19-
This is some complicated shit. I suggest we make this a bit simpler
for the time being. Basicly just have 2NT ask and then bid your suit.
I'll send you the rest of this stuff if you're interested in pursuing it.
After a 2S response
If responder rebids a suit, responder normally shows his suit
except prefers 3NT to 4m without extra values. If responder
raises instead of bidding his suit it is constructive. Responder
may also jump shift to show a singleton plus fit. Opener
should bid 3S only with a very shaped hand; 2C-2S-2NT-3X-3S
does not imply a balanced hand.
2NT is asking (usually balanced or semi-balanced); responder
can show 3 ranges:
Min = KQ or AQ suit (or AK 5332, no side cards);
<7 HCP; if 5332, <8 HCP
Middle = No side A or K (except can have side K if suit to KQ);
not min.
Max = 3+ controls, 9+ HCP.
After showing range, responder shows shape as follows:
4C hearts (either extra length if suit, or side 4 card suit)
4D spades (either extra length if suit, or side 4 card suit)
4H clubs (either extra length if suit, or side 4 card suit)
4S diamonds (either extra length if suit, or side 4 card suit)
4NT 5332, 3 controls if max, <10 HCP if middle
5C 5332, 4 controls if max, 1 control and 9+ HCP if middle
5D 5332, 5 controls if max, 2 controls and 9+ HCP if middle, etc
Specific responses to 2C-2S-2NT
3C diamonds or non-max with spades
3D hearts
3H spades, 3+ controls
3S clubs, middle (3NT asks shape)
3NT clubs, min
4C clubs, side hearts, max
4D clubs, side spades, max
4H 6+ clubs, max
4S clubs, side diamonds, max
4NT clubs 5332, max, 3 controls
5C clubs, 5332, max, 4 controls
5D clubs, 5332, max, 5 controls, etc
-20-
Weak Two Openings
-----------------
Our weak two bids, like all our preemptive actions are based on
positional considerations as well as vulnerability. However, even
in first seat at favorable vulnerability they always resemble a
weak two. Constructive sequences are basically 2NT asking for
shortness and a new suit asks for a feature in that suit or a
higher ranking suit. The new suit can never be raised. Over the
opponents takeout double we play transfers starting with RDBL and
2S is feature asking.
2 Diamonds
2H asking for a heart feature
2S spade feature
2NT heart feature
3C club feature
2S asking for a spade feature
2NT asks for shortness
3C asking for a club feature
competition
Vs. the opponents takeout double we play transfers beginning with
RDBL. 2S is a feature ask. 2NT transfers to 3C.
2D-(2H)-2S non-forcing
2D-(any)-2NT natural, invitational
2D-(any)-NS at the 3 level are natural and forcing including
a jump shift to 3S
2 of a Major
2NT asks for shortness
A new suit asks for feature in that suit (bid NT) or higher suit
(cue-bid the stopper but do not go past 3 of the weak 2 suit).
competition
Vs. the opponents takeout double we play transfers beginning with
RDBL. 2S is a feature ask. 2NT transfers to 3C.
2H-(2S)-2NT natural, invitational
2M-(any)-NS forcing
Pass followed by double is penalty.
-21-
Three Level Preempts
--------------------
When we open the bidding with a 3 level preempt 4 of anything that
is not game is an asking bid in that suit.
AKJx,Axx,Qxx,Jxx is a game bid opposite 2nd seat 3C at equal vul.
4H-4S asking
5C-5D asking
NOTE: Put Turtle stuff in here.
3C-4S?
Namyats
-------
In response to a Namyats 4C or 4D opening, bidding the gap suit shows
2 keycards plus a useful feature. An AQ together or side K. Bidding
past our suit are 1430 RKC responses. If responder signs off, a new
suit by opener is control asking.
If they double the Namyats bid:
PASS shows no interest in bidding on to the five level
RDBL interest in defending
others are as if there were no interference
minimum hand (favorable 1st seat)
maximum hand (unfavorable 2nd seat)
Jump Shifts
-----------
Responder's Jump Shifts
Fit showing by passed hand.
In competition, jump shifts show a weak-two type of hand, when the
jump shifter is an unpassed hand.
1m-(DBL)-2M is weak when still an unpassed hand.
By an unpassed hand, jump shifts are strong showing one of three
types of hands; fit showing with 4-4 or better in the two suits,
17-19 balanced with at least 4 cards in the suit, or a single suited
hand. 16 HCP is the minimum for a jump shift barring exceptional
distribution. KJTx is the minimum suit requirement for a jump shift
suit.
1m-2S-2NT is usually bid asking for a further description:
A new suit is a splinter showing a fit for the opened suit.
Raising openers suit shows a fit with no other distributional
features. Rebidding the jump shift suit shows a single suiter.
Jumping to 4 of the jump shift suit shows a solid 7 bagger with
a side A or K or a solid 8 bagger with no side cards.
Opener does not inquire with 2NT with the following hands:
Qxxx or better in the jump shift suit
a good 7 card suit
5-5 or better in his own suits
Opener's Jump Shifts
After a major suit opening, a jump shift by opener shows at least a
5-5 hand, since a 2NT rebid would be forcing.
After a forcing 1NT reponse, responder can show a three card limit
raise either by bidding a new suit with a concentration of values,
or by jumping to 4M with poor slam values.
-22-
Fourth Suit Forcing
-------------------
1C-1D-1H-1S Game forcing, without 4 spades
1C-1D-1H-2S Game forcing with 4 spades
1D-1H-1S-2C artificial game force
2D 5+ diamonds, minimum hand
2H usually a doubleton heart with a weak or no stopper in the
fourth suit since most hands with 3H will raise immediately
2S PLOB, some kind of good hand. This will seem more
intuitive if you think of the hands you can't have when
playing a weak NT...
2NT asks what kind of good hand you have
3C 4243 12-14, no club stopper
3D 4063
3H 4261
3S 4261 heart honor
3NT 4252 no club stopper
2NT 12-14 or 17-19, stopper in fourth suit, can have one heart
3NT
4CDHS 17-19, 4252, forcing to 4NT, cue-bid,
also showing 2 of the top three diamond honors
4NT 4252 couldn't cue-bid
pass reject
bid keycard responses for diamonds
3C 4 clubs
3D natural, 15+, either 4162 or seven diamonds (see PLOB)
3H 15(+)-17, 4351
3S any 5-6 shaped hand
3NT 16-17, suggests 4252
-23-
1C-1H-1S-2D artificial game force
2H usually a doubleton heart with a weak or no stopper in the
fourth suit since most hands with 3H will raise immediately
2S PLOB artificial; some kind of good hand. This will seem more
intuitive if you think of the hands you can't have when
playing a weak NT...
2NT asks what kind of good hand you have
3C 4036
3D 4234 12-14, no diamond stopper
3H 4216 no heart honor
3S 4216 heart honor
3NT 4225 no diamond stopper
2NT 12-14 or 17-19, stopper in fourth suit, can have one heart
3NT
4CDHS 17-19, 4225, forcing to 4NT, cue-bid,
also shows 2 of the top 3 club honors
4NT 4225 couldn't cue-bid
pass reject
bid keycard responses for diamonds
3C 5+ clubs
3D 4045
3H 15(+)-17, 4315
3S any 5-6 hand
3NT 16-17, suggests 4224
4C 4315 minimum
4D 4315 extras
4H 4306 minumum
4S 4306 extras
1C-1H-1S-2D-3S shows any 5-6+ hand since 2S is artificial.
1D-1H-1S-2C-3S shows any 5-6+ hand since 2S is artificial.
1D-1S-2C-2H
2S usually a doubleton spade with a weak or no heart stop
since most hands with 3S will raise immediately
2NT 12-14 or 17-19, heart stopper, can have one spade
3NT
4C/D/S 17-19, 2254, forcing to 4NT, cue-bid,
also shows 2 of the top three diamond honors
4H 17-19, 1354, forcing to 4NT
4NT 2254, couldn't cue-bid
pass reject
bid keycard responses for diamonds
3C natural
3D natural, 5+
3H 15(+)-17, 1354
3S 1444 12-16
3NT 16-17, suggests 2254
4C 3145 extras
4D 3154 extras
4H 3055 minimum
4S 3055 maximum
-24-
Negative Doubles
----------------
Negative doubles are played at all levels. The opener must have 4 to pick
one of the negative double suits. The negative doubler does not have to
have four in either(!) of his implied suits but will tend to have four of
the other major. I.e. 1C-(1S)-DBL does not promise 4 hearts but
1C-(1S)-DBL-(any)-2H promises four hearts. A negative double of 1S
denies four spades and shows 8+ HCP.
Penalty doubles:
1C-(2D)-P-(P)
DBL-(P)-P-(RDBL)
P-(2H)- pass does not create a force.
Responsive Doubles
------------------
Responsive doubles are on at all levels. Doubles are responsive after
a preempt and a raise. In this situation, say (2H)-DBL-(3H)-DBL, the
responsive double here shows three spades, not four. Considering negative
free bids, on an auction such as (1S)-DBL-(2H)-DBL is responsive if the new
suit is forcing, but penalty if the bid is non-forcing. One suited responsive
doubles, (1C)-1H-(1S)-DBL, show no fit for opener's suit while bidding the
unbid suit shows tolerance.
Support Doubles
---------------
After a support double, all bids other than two of the supported suit are
forcing for one round except 3 of opener's suit which is nonforcing and shows
exactly a limit raise.
Maximal Doubles
---------------
1D-(1H)-1S-(2H)
DBL-(3H)-DBL shows cards but is not forcing.
Other Doubles
-------------
In competitive situations, opener's first double is usually shows some
nondirectional hand approximately in the 17-19 HCP range. Exceptions to
this rule are as follows:
. 1M-(P)-1NT-(2X)-DBL shows shortness
. 1M-(P)-1NT-(P)-2m-(DBL)-P-(2X)-DBL shows shortness and extras
-25-
Unusual Vs. Unusual ("First Up")
--------------------------------
1C-(2NT) diamonds and hearts
DBL 10+ HCP balanced, creates force
3C distributional limit raise
3D spades, invitational or better
3H clubs, invitational or better
3S natural, non-forcing
4C preemptive
4D splinter
4H splinter
1D-(2NT) clubs and hearts
1C-(2C) majors
2D natural, non-forcing
2H clubs, invitational or better
2S diamonds, invitational or better
2NT 11-12 HCP
3C distributional limit raise
3D good 6 card suit, non-forcing
3H splinter, not game forcing
3S splinter, not game forcing
3NT 13-15 HCP
4C preemptive
1M-(2M) majors
DBL good hand
2NT to play in a minor
3m natural, forcing
cue limit+
3NT natural
1S-(2NT) minors
3C limit+ in hearts
3D limit+ in spades
3H natural, competitive
3S competitive
1H-(2NT) minors
3C limit+ in hearts
3D competitive with spades
3H natural, competitive
3S forcing with spades
4M same as with no interference
4H (after 1S) splinter
4S (after 1H) same as with no interference
-26-
4NT Quantitative
----------------
When repsonding to a quantitative 4NT we answer straight aces if we accept.
Whatever the response is, 5S forces 5NT. 5NT asks for 4 card or longer
suits up the line.
Many jumps to 4NT when no suit has been agreed are quantitative.
A jump to the cheapest unplayable spot is RKC for the last suit
or our minor on these hands.
When using kickback varieties, 4NT and our suit are never asking bids but
may be used for responding steps.
Roman Keycard Blackwood
-----------------------
5C 1 or 4
5D 0 or 3
5H 2 or 5 without the trump queen
5S 2 or 5 with the trump queen
5NT 2 with a useful void
6x 1 with that void
6 trump suit is void in a higher ranking suit
When hearts is our suit we can't respond to Blackwood with 5S.
After the queen ask, the cheapest step is no queen and 5NT shows
the king of the "no queen" suit. Returning to the trump suit if
it is not the cheapest step show the queen and no kings.
5NT asks for specific kings up the line. A new suit after responder
has shown a king asks for a grand slam bid if the responder has that
king.
Usually there will be a key suit which we will know must come in
for a slam to score. Auctions such as 1C-1H-3NT-5C should be
answered with keycards for clubs. 1D-1H-1S-2C-2NT-3H-3NT-5C
should be answered with keycards for hearts, etc.
Keycard for 2 suits
1 or 4
0 or 3
2 or 5 with one or two queens when there is not room to show both
2 or 5 with both queens
2 or 5 with no queen (if room is available)
The suit that was BW is used for more BW.
Asking for the queen when our suit is a minor does not guarantee
all the keycards and 5NT is still a playable spot.
More Blackwood in other situations guarantees all the controls.
-27-
Keycard Gerber
--------------
Gerber must always be a jump. If 4C is not gerber, then 5C will be
treated as Gerber. Responses to Gerber are:
4D 1 or 4
4H 0 or 3
4S 2 without extra values
4NT 2 or 5 with extra values
Grand Slam Force
----------------
6C A or K
6D Q (this goes first)
6H no honor, extra length (this goes second)
6S no honor, no extra length
6NT 2 honors, no extra length
7C 2 honors, extra length
When 5NT would have been pick a slam, 6C is GSF if clubs is not one
of our suits.
Asking Bids
-----------
1st step no control
2nd step second round control
3rd step 1st round control
cheapest NT unprotected king
4NT DI
------
We give up 4NT as Blackwood in many minor suited auctions or in
any auction where 4NT would be more valuable as a slam try than
as Blackwood. This includes the "impossible" Blackwood auctions
where one hand can't have enough to bid Blackwood based on prior
bidding. 4NT can be many things; a cue-bid of a suit beyond 5 of
our suit, undisclosed values, or a very strong raise to 5.
-28-
General Competitive Agreements
------------------------------
When the opponents have shown a fit, double is not penalty.
In general, when the opponents bid and remove what would have been a force
on one hand, for instance (1C)-1S-(P)-2C-(DBL), passing shows a slightly
better hand than bidding.
Forcing Passes
--------------
Forcing passes are dependent upon vulnerability. Only when we
are vulnerable and they are not does a jump to game create
a forcing pass. At all other vulnerabilities, you have to
cue-bid to create a forcing pass situation. Splintering creates
a forcing pass situation.
-29-
DEFENSIVE BIDDING SUMMARY
=========================
General Rules
-------------
Bidding is good. Light, agressive bids can be made in any position.
advancer must allow some leighweigh, but not too much. Let's just get
to some horrible games and see if they can beat us.
When two cue-bids are available, bid the one you have better stoppers in.
Overcalls
---------
Jump raises are very preemptive.
Jump cue-bids show a mixed raise of 8-10 support points and 4 trumps
but does not have to have shortness.
Cue-bids guarantee support and show a limit raise or better.
Jump shifts are natural and forcing for one round.
On fit auctions after we overcall at the two level 2NT is a cue-bid
for overcaller's suit.
Sandwich NT
After (1C)-P-(1S)- all suit bids are natural.
When responding to a Sandwich NT, a cue bid of the lower of
the opponents suits is for our lower suit and a cue bid of the
higher of the opponents suits is for our higher suit.
(1C)-DBL-(1S)-2S cue-bid
-2C natural
When a one-suited responsive double was available at the one-level
then opener's suit is the only cue-bid. I.e.,
(1C)-1H-(1S)-DBL 5+ diamonds, no heart tolerance
-2C guarantees heart support, limit raise or better
-2D 5+ diamonds, heart tolerance
-2S natural
(1C)-1S-(DBL)-RDBL good hand, clarify later
-2C guarantees spade support, limit raise or better
-2H natural
In National or better events, we play transfer advances to overcalls.
When a transfer advance is not available, new suits after a one level
overcall is non-forcing, jump shifts are natural and forcing, and a
cue-bid guarantees support.
-30-
Doubles
-------
(1D)-DBL-(P)-3H 3-6 HCP 6 (or 7) card suit.
(1C)-DBL-(1H)-2C cue-bid with better club controls than heart controls
-2H cue-bid with better heart controls than club controls
-3D weak
DISUSSION: we can make 2C for diamonds and 2H for spades...
We make a takeout double and advancer cue-bids:
cue-bidder guarantees one more bid (under discussion...)
The opponents make a takeout double and advancer cue-bids:
DBL shows a good suit and hand willing to compete to the three level.
If they opponents RDBL a T/O or balancing double, PASS by the responder
is penalty in all situations except those listed below:
- at the one level
- (1S)-P-(2S)-DBL-(RDBL)-P here is no preference
After a T/O double at the two level, 2NT shows two places to play.
(1S)-DBL-(2S)-DBL-(P)-2NT shows extra values if 2S was a trash raise?
Doubles of splinters at various vulnerablities:
In general, the double of a splinter bid asks for the lead of
a suit other than the splinter suit. However, there are several
exceptions:
If the opponents bid are splintering for a minor below 3NT then
double asks for a lead of that suit.
In situations where we are in danger of being frozen out,
i.e., (1S)-P-(4H), DBL is takeout of their suit except when we
are white vs. red, when the double proposes a sack in that suit.
Vs. Bergen
When we are not a passed hand DBL of their 3m is takeout of
their major. When we are a passed hand it is lead directing.
If they double a cue-bid below 3NT then RDBL is ace. If above 3NT
then RDBL show 1st round control.
If they double 3NT RDBL expresses doubt.
-31-
Michael's Cue-bid
-----------------
Good or bad - bad hands have very little defesive tricks i.e.
KQxxx,QJxxx,xx,x would be the most defensive tricks for the
bad hand.
(1S)-2S-(P)-2NT bid your minor but show about 14 HCP.
3C pick with no game interest
(1H)-2H-(P)-3S preemptive
(1S)-2S-(P)-3C preemptive, pass or correct
Unusual No Trump
---------------
(1S)-2NT-(3S)-DBL
-3NT
-4C
-4D
-4S
-4NT
-5C
Balancing
---------
Balancing with NT
(1m)-1NT 11-14 HCP balanced
cue-bid Stayman
suits are to play
Stayman followed by 3 level major is invitational
(1M)-1NT 11-16 HCP balanced
2C is Stayman and invitational opposite 15-16
cue-bid is Stayman and invitational opposite 13-16
(1X)-2NT 19-21 HCP balanced
The same system is in effect as as over (2X)-2NT.
Balancing with Suits
- doubles with shape, 8+, else 10+
- cue-bids show big two suiters or one suiters
- jump shifts are intermediate, 13-16 with a 6 card suit
- double jump shifts are 8.5-9 tricks
After a balancing double at the two level, 2NT shows two places
to play.
(1m)-P-(1NT)-P-(P)-DBL shows 13-14 with diamonds
2C is for takeout
-32-
Vs. No Trump
-----------
We consider 1 NT strong if the minimum HCP is 14 or greater.
DONT vs. strong NT
If they RDBL our single-suited DBL, 2C shows clubs and PASS
is pick your suit.
Cappelletti vs. weak NT
If they DBL (meaning anything) our single suited 2C:
PASS bid your suit
RDBL to play in clubs
suits to play
Vs. 1NT Overcalls
-----------------
Cappelletti
1X-(1NT)- DBL Penalty
2C One suited hand
If they double our 2C bid, redouble shows
5+ clubs and pass says name your suit.
2D majors
2H hearts and a minor
2S spades and a minor
2NT minors
Vs. Negative Doubles
--------------------
Parking lot redoubles. RDBL shows a single suiter while all other
bids are lead directing raises. Parking lot RDBLs are on only on when
the overcall is at the one level, i.e., given xxx, KQTxx, Jxx, Ax, the auction
(1D)-2C-(DBL)- 2H would be natural.
Vs. Weak Two Bids
-----------------
Roman jumps
cue-bid asks stopper, except (2D)-3D is Michaels
2D-4C clubs + hearts
2D-4D clubs + spades
Lebensohl when doubler is an unpassed hand
DISCUSSION: Do we play better minor Lebensohl here?
After (2X)-2NT all suits are transfers, a transfer into their suit is Stayman.
After (2X)-3NT all suits a transfers, a transfer into their suit is Blackwood.
-33-
Vs. Roman Two Diamonds
----------------------
DBL diamonds
2NT natural, trick taking
Vs. Flannery Two Diamonds
-------------------------
DBL strong NT
2H T/O of hearts
2S natural
2NT minors
Vs. Flannery Two Hearts
-----------------------
DBL T/O
2S natural
2NT strong NT
Vs. Strong Two Clubs
--------------------
Vs. Three Level Preempts
------------------------
(3X)-3NT-(P)-4C
4NT 16-19
suits trick taking based on that suit
cue-bid 20+ NT hand
Vs. Strong Club
---------------
Truscott - suit bids show that suit and the touching higher suit.
The nontouching 2-suiters are handled with DBL and 1NT. Remember
that _D_ouble = _D_iamonds.
(1C)-1D diamonds and hearts
(1C)-1H hearts and spades
(1C)-1S spades and clubs
(1C)-2C clubs and diamonds
(1C)-DBL diamonds and spades
(1C)-1NT hearts and clubs
All jump shifts are natural and preemptive.
Truscott is on over (2C)-P-(2D).
-34-
Vs. Multicolored Two Diamonds
-----------------------------
Direct Actions
DBL 14-16 balanced
2NT 17-19 balanced
simple overcalls natural
pass followed by DBL takeout
major jump overcalls natural and strong (15-17, 6 card suit)
minor jump overcall that suit and hearts
pass then overcall less than a direct overcall
pass then jump overcall spades and a minor
3NT to play
pass then NT minors
4th Hand Actions
DBL takeout
pass then DBL takeout
2NT 15-18 balanced
jump in a minor other major plus that minor
pass then jump that major and a minor
direct cue-bids natural
Organizing Principles
1) When the opponents have not bid a suit naturally, doubles show
approximately a balanced strong NT. Subsequent bids proceed
along lines similar to our defence to the Cappelletti 2C bid.
2) When they have named a suit, doubles are for takeout.
3) When responding to either type of double, a suit that the
opponents have named is assumed to belong to them.
4) All jump actions are strong.
5) Balancing doubles by either player are for takeout when partner
has not shown strength.
6) Balancing doubles are for penalty when partner has show strength
by some earlier action, either responsive double or forcing pass.
7) In response to a 2nd seat overcall, the cheapest suit call is
a cue-bid.
-35-
In response to ANY card showing double we use Rubensohl with the following
additional agreements:
1) 4th hand's first double is responsive, i.e. (2D)-DBL-(2H)-DBL,
has something like Kxxx,xx,Axx,Jxxx.
Examples: (2D)-DBL-(2H)-DBL-(2S)-DBL - penalty
(2D)-DBL-(2H)-P-(2S)-P-(P)-DBL - t/o
(2D)-DBL-(2H)-DBL-(2S)-P-(P)-DBL - penalty
(2D)-DBL-(2H)-P-(2S)-DBL-(3C)-DBL - penalty
2) After any card showing action by 4th hand, such as a responsive
double or a penalty pass, double by either hand is penalty.
Examples: (2D)-DBL-(2H)-DBL-(2S)-DBL
(2D)-DBL-(2H)-DBL-(2S)-P-(P)-DBL
(2D)-DBL-(2H)-DBL-(P)-P-(2S)-DBL
3) Subsequent doubles by doubler when responder has not show strength
are for takeout.
Examples: (2D)-DBL-(2H)-P-(P)-DBL
(2D)-DBL-(2H)-P-(P)-DBL
4) When the opponenets have named a suit, that suit is assumed to
belong to them for Rubensohl purposes.
Examples: (2D)-DBL-(2H)-3D Stayman w/o stopper
(2D)-DBL-(2H)-DBL-(P)-3D Stayman w/o stopper
(2D)-DBL-(2H)-2NT Relay to 3C (not inv)
(2D)-DBL-(2S)-3C Transfer to diamonds (inv +)
(2D)-DBL-(2S)-3H Stayman with no S stopper
(2D)-DBL-(2S)-3NT no stopper
After ANY takeout double subsequent doubles are penalty oriented.
Examples: (2D)-P-(2H)-DBL-(2S)-DBL penalty since doubler
has shown some spades, 2nd hands double is penalty.
When responding to any takeout double, Lebensohl is on as though they had
opened 2H/S and we had doubled them.
Vs. 2S Weak Preempt in Any Suit
-------------------------------
Vs. 2NT Minors
--------------
Vs. 2NT Weak Preempt in Any Suit
--------------------------------
Vs. 1S as a Forcing NT
----------------------
If they play 1S as a forcing NT, X is a weak 1S overcall, 1NT is a
normal -> better spade overcall.
Vs. 1NT as a Weak Takeout
-------------------------
DBL the old redouble
2NT is a cue-bid
Sacrificing
-----------
When we are sacrificing, 4NT shows some defense against their
5 level contract. 5 of our suit denies defense against the 5
level and invites a save at the 6 level.
-36-
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES
===================
Carding
-------
UDCA, Smith, upside down present count, standard suit preference
Trump signals are suit preference.
middle-low is no preference
middle-high is preference for the middle suit
from 2 normal is low
When leading back a suit having been forced to play high at a prior
opportunity, we lead back as we normally would if that were our original
holding. I.e., if you started life with K7642 and play the K on the first
trick, we would lead the 4 back.
If you have played high (odd) from 3, then low is the normal play
on the second round.
When leading from KQT with Jxx in dummy, lead the queen. Lead the
king from KQ empty.
Leads
-----
Suits Rusinow, 3rd from even, low from odd
NT 4th best, except:
- When leading from 4 having never raised, then lead 3rd best
- 2nd highest from 4+ card holdings when in doubt of what suit
is right to attack.
Rusinow honor leads.
The K is a power lead asking for the unblock of the queen or jack
or count otherwise.
The Ace asks attitude about the queen.
Rusinow leads are played through the 9.
Do not lead Rusinow when:
- Leading a suit bid or implied by partner even if we have raised.
A T/O, negative, or responsive double count as implying a
suit. If partner makes a suit implying double and advancer bids
the suit then the suit becomes advancers and Rusinow is on.
- when leading a suit after having preempted in another suit
- not in their trump suit
Splitting
low in front of the open hand,
high in front of the closed hand
-37-
Partnership Rules
-----------------
- Minimum of one hour per session going over every hands.
- Rest between sessions.
- In bed by 1:30.
- Play the same way against every pair.
- Practice the way we would play in the Reisinger.
- 100% regular tempo on every card and every bid, including passout seat.
- Have one regular night for 2 hours of bridge.
- never violate best/worst hand agreements
To do:
get a hand generator; types of hands to work on:
. inverted minors
. transfer advances
What is the minimum hand for a transfer?
Does a transfer followed by a raise of opener's suit
still show 5+ in the transfer suit?
. Is there a difference between transfering to hearts and
transfering to diamonds?
Cokin notes
Berkowitz's comments
Get FSF stuff from Wafik's notes
List best and worst hands in many situations:
simple raises
preempts
We have been too busy between and before sessions. I think this is
limiting our (my) sleep and focus on the game when we play.
Play dates for the next 6 months
GNT team?
If a situation occurs such that we have a bidding misunderstanding
and the same situation comes up again before we can make an agreement,
we will play it the way Wafik played it last.
-38-
Legend
------
3om three of the other minor
3oM three of the other major
BUPH by unpassed hand
BPH by passed hand
RHO left hand opponent
LHO left hand opponent
NS new suit
! alert These are here so that when we play with screens
!! special alert we will alert and explain identically.
-> followed by (i.e. 2NT->3NT)
+ or better
++ very good
- bad
> greater than
< less than
DISCUSSION points we need to come to agreement on
NOTE Things to talk about