Incision

Forcing Club System

Table of Contents
System Summary ..Page 3 Opening Bids 1st and 2nd Seats . Page 4 Opening Bids 3rd and 4th Seats . Page 5 1 Opening responses 1st and 2nd Seat . Page 6 1 Opening responses 1st and 2nd Seat . Page 11 1 Major Opening 1st and 2nd Seat Page 14 1NT Opening ... Page 16 2 Opening 1st and 2nd Seat Page 18 2 Opening 1st and 2nd Seat Page 19 2 Major Opening 1st and 2nd Seat Page 20 1 Opening responses 3rd and 4th Seat .. Page 21 1 Opening responses 3rd and 4th Seat ... Page 24 1 Major Opening 3rd and 4th Seat Page 24 2 Opening 3rd and 4th Seat Page 25 2 Opening 3rd and 4th Seat Page 25 2 Major Opening 3rd and 4th Seat Page 25 Handling Interference . Page 26 General System notes . Page 30 Partnership Carding agreements . Page 32 General Style notes . Page 34

System Summary
General Approach: In 1st & 2nd seat: Forcing Club with very light opening bids and 4 card Majors In 3rd & 4th seat: Very Strong Club (18+ hcp) and 4 card Majors 1 (in 1st or 2nd seat) = 13+ hcp any shape (16+ hcp if balanced) Forcing Suggested defense: 2 natural and 2 Michaels (Polish Club defense) 1 (in 3rd or 4th seat) = 18+ hcp any shape (20+ hcp if balanced) Forcing Suggested defense: 1 = Majors, 1NT = minors or any other Strong Club defense 1 (in 1st or 2nd seat) = 10 to 12 hcp without shortness or 6+ card suit (like a mini NT) Suggested defense treat as natural, no special defense needed Alternative defense treat as a weak NT and use your defense vs. weak NT at the 2 level 1/1/2/2/2/2 (in 1st or 2nd seat) = Natural bids, limited up to 12 hcp 1/1/1/2/2/2/2 (in 3rd or 4th seat) = Natural bids, limited up to 17 hcp (1 could be 2) No special defense needed 1NT (in 1st or 2nd seat) = 13 to 15 hcp (slightly off shape distribution is allowed) 1NT (in 3rd or 4th seat) = 17 to 19 hcp (slightly off shape distribution is allowed) 2NT (in 1st or 2nd seat) = 5 to 9 hcp with both minors (at least 5-5) 2NT (in 3rd or 4th seat) = 6 to 12 hcp with both minors (at least 5-5 when Vul) Suggested defense: X = Strong, Balanced 3 = Takeout for the Majors with better Hearts 3 = Takeout for the Majors with better Spades Alternative defense: X = Strong, Balanced 3 = Strong Takeout for the Majors 3 = Distributional Takeout for the Majors

Opening Bids 1st & 2nd Seat

1 1 1 1 1NT 2 2 2 2 2NT 3 3 3 3 3NT 4 4 4 4 4NT
13+ hcp shapely or 16+ Balanced or semi balanced 10-12 Balanced or semi Balanced 8-12 hcp, 4+ Hearts, could have a longer minor, side shortness 8-12 hcp, 4+ Spades, could have a longer minor, side shortness 13-15 hcp, balanced or semi balanced 8-12 hcp, 5+ clubs (usually 6+) and no 4+ card major, if only 5 cards must have 4+ diamonds and side shortness 8-12 hcp, 5+ diamonds (usually 6+) and no 4+ card major, if only 5 cards must have 4+ clubs and side shortness 6-12 hcp, 6 - 7 hearts (usually no shortness if 10-12) 6-12 hcp, 6 - 7 spades (usually no shortness if 10-12) 5-9 hcp, both minors (at least 5-5) 4-7 hcp, 6+ Clubs 4-7 hcp, 6+ Diamonds 4-7 hcp, 6+ Hearts 4-7 hcp, 6+ Spades Gambling 3NT, solid minor (AKQ), 7+ cards long Responses: 4C Pass/Correct, 4D Shortness ask, 4Mjr To Play Preemptive Preemptive To Play To Play Pick a minor (typically 0-6 hcp with 6-6 or 7-6)

Opening Bids 3rd & 4th Seat

1 1 1 1 1NT 2 2 2 2 2NT 3 3 3 3 3NT 4 4 4 4 4NT
18+ hcp shapely or 20+ Balanced or semi balanced Either 10-17 hcp with 4+ Diamonds or 13-16 Balanced 10-17 hcp, 4+ Hearts, could have a longer minor 10-17 hcp, 4+ Spades, could have a longer minor 17-19 hcp, balanced or semi balanced 11-17 hcp, 6+ clubs (could be very good 5) Constructive 11-17 hcp, 6+ diamonds (could be very good 5) Constructive 11-17 hcp, 6+ hearts Constructive 11-17 hcp, 6+ spades Constructive 6-12 hcp, both minors (at least 5-5 when Vul) 6-12 hcp, 6+ Clubs Preemptive 6-12 hcp, 6+ Diamonds Preemptive 6-12 hcp, 6+ Hearts Preemptive 6-12 hcp, 6+ Spades Preemptive Gambling 3NT, solid suit (AKQ), 7+ cards, 2 more suits stopped Preemptive Preemptive To Play To Play Pick a minor (typically 0-7 hcp, at least 6-512wq)

1 Opening Responses 1st & 2nd Seat

1 1 1 1Mjr
0 to 7 hcp or 16+ hcp Balanced without a 4+ Major or 5+ minor Natural, 8+ hcp, 4+ cards, continuations by Opener: 1NT is Game Forcing and semi artificial (if followed by a jump to 3Mjr shows 21+ hcp raise with no shortness), Responses: 2 Any minimum (8 or 9) 2NT Balanced (10 12) 3 Balanced (13-15) 3OMjr Balanced (16+) 2Mjr is a minimum raise with 3 or 4 cards and shortness (2NT by responder ask for shortness: low, middle, high) 2NT is a Game Forcing Raise with 4+ cards and shortness (3 by responder ask for shortness: low, middle, high) 3Mjr is a Game Forcing Raise with 16 to 20 hcp and no shortness Jump shifts are Fit Showing and forcing New Suits are non forcing (tends to show unbalanced 13 to16- hcp) 8 to 11- hcp, no 4 card major, no 6 card minor Continuations will be similar to 2-way check-back 2 will force 2 either to play or as a start for most invitational auctions 2 will be artificial and game forcing followed by step responses: 2=Min. w/o 5m, 2=min with 5m, 2N=Max w/o 5m, 3m=max with 5 2 non forcing 2 non forcing 3 non forcing 2NT show a minimum with 5+/5+ in the minors GF, 11+ hcp, 5+ Clubs, no 4+ card major, continuations: 2/2/3/3 are Natural and limited to 17 hcp 2NT = balanced 16 to 18 or 21+ 3NT = balanced 19 to 20 3/3 show a strong suit (like a 2/1 jump rebid). 2 is an asking bid (tends to show either a stronger unbalanced hand or some 3 suited hand), Responder than will describe his hand: 2 = 11 to 15 hcp, both minors (at least 5/4) with Heart shortness 2 = 11 to 15 hcp, both minors (at least 5/4) with Spade shortness 2NT = 11 to 15 hcp, 2/3-3-5 3 = 11 to 15 hcp, 6+ clubs (denies 4+ Diamonds) 3 = 11 to 15 hcp, 2-2-4-5 3/3/3NT/4/4 = 16+ hcp, same distributions as the lower level bids GF, 11+ hcp, 5+ Diamonds, no 4+ card major, continuations: 2/2/3/3 are Natural and limited to 17 hcp 3NT = balanced 18 to 20 3/3 show a strong suit (like a 2/1 jump rebid). 2NT is an asking bid, Responder than will describe his hand: 3 = 11 to 15 hcp, 2-2-5-4 3 = 11 to 15 hcp, 6+ Diamonds (denies 4+ Clubs) 3 = 11 to 15 hcp, both minors (at least 5/4) with Heart shortness 3 = 11 to 15 hcp, both minors (at least 5/4) with Spade shortness 6

1 1NT

1 2

1 2

3NT = 11 to 15 hcp, 2/3-5-3 4/4/4/4/4NT = 16+ hcp, same distributions as 3 level bids

1 2

8 to 10 hcp, 5+/5+ minors, no 4+ card Major, continuations by Opener: 3/3 are To Play 2NT is Invitational (approx. 14 15 hcp with both Majors covered) 3/3 are Natural and forcing (6+ cards in suit) 3NT is To Play 2 is GF asking bid to find out responders distribution: 2NT show 5-5 (3 ask for shortness: low, high) 3 show 6 clubs (3 ask on Majors: 3=2-0, 3=0-2, 3NT=1-1) 3 show 6 Diamonds (3 ask: 3=0-2, 3NT=1-1, 4=2-0) 3 show 3-0-5-5 3 show 0-3-5-5 3NT show 6-6 (Opener sets trumps and responder show void) 4/4 show 7/5 GF, 11 to 16 hcp, 3 suited hand, Opener can ask for shortness with 2NT or show a single suit of his own. GF, 11+ to 15 hcp, Balanced (no 4+ card major, no 5+ card minor) Continuations: 3/3 show shortness and doubt about NT 3NT/4/4 are to play 4 is Gerber 4 show 5-5 minors with Slam interest (Responder either signs off or bids 4/4 to show slam interest for the corresponding minor) 4NT show 5-5 minors with no slam interest 3 is asking responder to show his 3 card Major (3NT show both) 3 is a relay to 3 and than: 3/3 show shortness in the corresponding minor 3NT is a mild slam try (Responder only accepts with 14+/15) 4NT is a serious slam try (Responder accepts with 13- to 15) 4/4 is natural and Slamish 4/4 show Slam interest with 5+ in corresponding minor and 4 in the other minor 8 to 10 hcp, 6+ clubs, no 4+ card Major 8 to 10 hcp, 6+ diamonds, no 4+ card Major 16+ hcp, 5+/5+ minors (Similar to the 2 response, only Slamish) Slam Force (unless a total misfit), 17+ hcp, 3 suited hand, continuations as after 2 with only out below slam is 4NT by either with misfitting hands 1 loser suit in a Major and no controls outside, Opener bids 4 and Responder transfers to his Major

1 2 1 2NT

1 3 1 3 1 3 1 3 1 3NT

After 1 Opening Responses

1 1 1
Forces 1 can be any one of these hands: 1) Natural Hearts with an unbalanced hand (min) 2) 2-suited Game Force 3) Various Balanced Hands 1 1, 1 1, 1NT 19 21 hcp 1 1, 1 1, 2NT 24 25 hcp 1 1, 1 1, 2// Natural minimums Spades and another 1 1, 1 1, 2 Clubs and Diamonds 1 1, 1 1, 3 Diamonds and Hearts 1 1, 1 1, 3 Hearts and Clubs 1 1, 1 1, 3 Forces 2, can be one of these hands 1) Natural suited Game Forcing Hands 2) Game Forcing Balanced Hand 1 1, 2 2, 2NT 26+ hcp 1 1, 2 2, 3/// Natural GF 1 suiter Natural near game forces

1 1 2

1 1 2/3/3/3 1 - 1 3/3NT/4/4 1 1Mjr 1N

Modified KC ask (3NT for Hearts) 0 / 0+Q / 1 / 1+Q / 2 Game Forcing and semi artificial, Responses: 2 Any minimum (8 or 9) 2NT Balanced (10 12) 3 Balanced (13-15) 3oMjr Balanced (16+)

Other Sequences Splitting ranges after a Negative response, we use 1H and 2H as Kokish type bids. If the next bid is not Notrump they show 2 or 1 suited hands, the High relay shows big hands (2C standard Openers). So far we have: 1) 1 1, 1NT 16 18 h. c. p 2) 1 1, 1 1, 1NT 19 21 h. c. p 22 23 h. c. p 3) 1 1, 2NT 4) 1 1, 1 1, 2NT 24 25 h. c. p 5) 1 1, 2 2, 2NT Balanced Game Force Power 2 Suiters / Game Forcing 2 suiters Spades and another suit use 2NT to ask 1) 1 1, 1 1, 2 Clubs and Diamonds 2) 1 1, 1 1, 3 Diamonds and Hearts 3) 1 1, 1 1, 3 4) 1 1, 1 1, 3 Hearts and Clubs Power 1 suiters / Game Forcing 1 suiters Clubs - demand cue or raise 1) 1 1, 2 2, 3 Diamonds - demand cue or raise 2) 1 1, 2 2, 3 Hearts - demand cue or raise 3) 1 1, 2 2, 3 Spades - demand cue or raise 4) 1 1, 2 2, 3 3rd/4th Seat - Opposite a passed partner 1 will show 18+ unbalanced or 20+ Balanced, the important changes will be below, but the basic system stays the same. A 1 response to a club, will show less than 5 hcp. The balanced hand sequences will be below 1) 1 1, 1NT 2) 1 1, 1 1, 1NT 3) 1 1, 2NT 4) 1 1, 1 1, 2NT 5) 1 1, 2 2, 2NT 1NT in 3rd seat shows 17 19 hcp 20 22 h. c. p 23 25 h. c. p 26 27 h. c. p 28 29 h. c. p Balanced Near Slam Force

Handling Interference
After 1 1X ? (or 1 X - ?) Pass = 0-7 with no biddable 6+ card suit X (or XX) = 8+ denying any of the other bids, usually a hand that would have bid 1NT 1/1/1 = Natural, Forcing for 1 round, system on Transfers starting at 1NT with 11+ hcp and 5+ cards in suit (opener should only accept with 3+ cards in support for the transfer suit) Transfer to overcalled suit is GF with 4 cards in any unbid Major/s 2 = GF 11+ to 15 balanced as in notes after 1 - 2NT, except that 2NT by opener is a relay showing a single suited hand responder will show his range (3=min, 3=max) and opener than set trumps 2NT through 3 = preemptive Transfers with 6+ cards and 4-6 hcp in the suit (no more than a Q outside) 3 = 16+ balanced 3NT = 1 loser suit in Major same as without interference 9

After 1 1NT - ? Pass = weak X = Penalty 2 through 2 = Transfers to play 2NT through 3 = constructive Transfers with a good hand and 6+ cards in suit After 1 2X ? Pass = weak X = Negative 2/2/2 = To play with about 5-9 hcp All bids starting with 2NT follow our Rubensohl agreements treating opener as 16-18 NT After 1 2 or 2 (Michaels) ? Pass followed by X = Competitive with both minors X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3m which is natural and GF 2 = 5+ Diamonds and 5-9 hcp 2 = GF (or up to 4m) with Hearts stopped looking for a Spade stopper for 3NT 2 = GF (or up to 4m) with Spades stopped looking for a Heart stopper for 3NT 2NT = Transfer to Clubs with 6+ clubs and 5-9 hcp (or correct to Diamonds if 2 was not available) 3 = Natural and GF 3 = Natural and GF 3 = GF with 5+ Clubs and 4+ Diamonds 3 = GF with 5+ Diamonds and 4+ Clubs After 1 2NT (minors) ? Pass followed by X = Competitive with both Majors X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3M which is natural and GF 3 = GF with 5+ hearts & 4+ spades 3 = GF with 5+ spades & 4+ hearts 3/3 = Constructive but NF After 1 2NT (+) Pass followed by X = Competitive with Spades and Clubs X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3 or 4 which is forcing 3 = Constructive but NF 3 = GF with exactly 4 Spades and 5+ clubs 3 = GF with 5+ Spades and 4+ clubs 3 = Constructive but NF After 1 3X (or higher) ? Pass = weak X = Negative Anything else = natural and GF

10

1 Opening
1 - 1
Natural (could be 3 with unbalanced minimum), Forcing for 1 round If followed by 2NT can be passed Opener re-bids: 2/2 shows a non minimum with 5-card minor and 3 or 4 card support 2 shows any with 4 or non max with 5 card support 2NT shows a max with 5 card support 1/1NT denies 4+ card support, Responder uses 2 way check back Natural (could be 3 with unbalanced minimum), Forcing for 1 round If followed by 2NT can be passed Opener re-bids: 2/2/2 shows a non minimum with a 5 card suit and 3 or 4 card support 2 shows any with 4 or non max with 5 card support 2NT shows a max with 5 card support 1NT denies 4+ card support, Responder uses 2 way check back suit with suit type hand. (minimum with controls etc.)

1 - 1

1 1 T 8 - 13 hcp, No 4-card Major, No 6 card minor. Opener should correct to 5 card 1 2

Artificial Game Force, Similar to Stayman: Opener rebids 2 without a 5-card major, 2M shows 5 Over the 2 response: 2M by responder is Forcing and shows 4+ All other continuations are as if Stayman was used over a notrump Transfer to Hearts, see continuations in 1NT section Transfer to Spades Transfer to Clubs, In between bid shows minimum, accept transfer with Max and (A/K)x or Hxx non minimums (10+) and (A/K)x or Hxx non minimums (10+)

1 2 1 2 1 2

1 2 T Transfer to Diamonds, In between bid shows minimum, accept transfer with Max 1 3 1 3 1 3 1 3 1 3 T 1 4 1 4 1 - 4 1 4 T
GF, 3 suited with 4 or 5 Clubs 3 asks for shortness (responses: low / middle / high) GF, 3-1 or 1-3 in the majors. 3 asks for shortness (responses: low / high) GF, Both Minors 5+/5+, 3 asks for shortness (responses: low / high) GF, 3 suited with short clubs To Play Gerber To Play To Play Quantitative

11

After 1 1M, 2M we will use the next step as an artificial ask (2 over 2 and 2NT over 2), to narrow down the range / shape of the hand. The responses will be: Step 1: Step 2: Step 3: minimum minimum but control rich, with 4+ controls Max (11+/12)

New suits over 1 1M, 2M will be help suit tries, basically invitational hands with 2 losers in the bid suit. 2NT over 2 will be a help suit game try in spades. Sign off with: Make a Counter Game try with: Bid game with: any hand with 3 losers Non Maximum with 2 losers Maximum with 2 losers Non Maximum with 1 loser Maximum with 1 loser Any hand with 0 losers

2 Way Check Back after: 1 1 1/1NT 2 is a relay to 2 than: or 1 1 1NT 2 is a relay to 2 than: Pass = Sign off 2 = Inv. with 5+ Spades and exactly 4 Hearts 2 = Inv. with 5+ Spades 2NT = Inv. with 4 diamonds 3/3 = Inv. with 5+ Cards

Pass = Sign off 2 = Inv. with 5+ Hearts 2 = Inv. with 4 Spades (only over 1S) or Bal. Inv. with 4 clubs (over 1NT) 2NT = Inv. with 4 diamonds 3/3 = Inv. with 5+ Cards but only 4 Hearts 2 is an artificial GF 2 = to play 2 = 4 card non invitational raise over 1S or GF with 6+ hearts and 5+ spades over 1NT 2NT = Inv. without 4 diamonds 3 = to play 3 = 5/5 GF 3 = ? 3NT = to play with 15-17 Balanced 3/4/4 = Self Splinter

2 is an artificial GF 2 = Pass or Correct 2 = to play 2NT = Inv. without 4 diamonds 3 = to play 3/3 = 5/5 GF 3 = ? 3NT = to play with 15-17 Balanced 4/4/4 = Self Splinter

Handling Interference
After 1 X ? Pass = Weak with 3+ Diamonds XX = 13+ hcp without a better descriptive bid 1/1 = 4+ cards Forcing for 1 round systems on 12

1NT = 9 to 12 hcp balanced 2/2/2/2 = 5+ cards NF 2NT = Natural and GF system as after 1 2NT without interference? (why not XX?) All bids above 2NT same as without interference? (why not XX?) After 1 1X ? Pass = Weak X = Negative, new suit continuations are forcing 1 = 5+ Spades, Forcing for 1 round 1NT = 9 to 12 hcp balanced 2/2/2/2 = 5+ cards NF 2NT = Natural and GF system as after 1 2NT without interference? All bids above 2NT same as without interference? After 1 1NT ? Pass = Weak X = Penalty 2 through 2 = Natural to Play 2NT through 3 = constructive Transfers with a good hand and 6+ cards in suit After 1 2X ? Use same system as after 1NT 2X (Rubensohl etc.) After 1 2 (Michaels) ? Use same system as after 1 2/2 (Michaels) After 1 2NT (minors) ? Pass followed by X = Competitive with both majors X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3M which is Natural and GF 3 = GF with 5+ hearts & 4+ spades 3 = GF with 5+ spades & 4+ hearts 3/3 = Constructive but NF After 1 2NT (+) ? Pass = less than Constructive X = Penalty oriented unless followed by a natural bid which is forcing 3 = GF with exactly 4 Spades and 5+ Diamonds 3 = Constructive but NF 3 = GF with 5+ Spades and 4+ Diamonds 3 = Constructive but NF After 1 3X (or higher) - ? Pass = weak X = Negative Anything else = natural and GF

13

1Major Opening - 1st & 2nd Seat

1 1 1Mjr 1NT
Natural 4+, Forcing for 1 round Forcing No-trump (typically: Strong with no fit and a good side suit or Balanced Invitational/Forcing or invitational with exactly 3 card support) Special agreement: 2NT rebid by opener = Max with exactly 4 cards in Major and a side 6+ card minor. 4+ cards in suit, non forcing 5+ cards in suit, non forcing 6+ cards in suit, non forcing Single raise 3 or 4 trumps, 6 - 12 hcp Next bid by opener (2/2 & 2NT/2) ask for shortness with max and extra shape (Responses are low/mid/high with shortness & max or go back to 3M) New suit by opener is Help Suit Game Try with max and extra shape (2NT/2 is HSGT for Spades) Game Forcing Raise, continuations: 1st step = all minimums, next bid asks for shortness: low, mid, high 2nd step = 4 - 4 - 4 - 1 next bid asks for shortness: low, mid, high 3rd step = longer minor, next bid asks: low, high, next bid asks for shortness: low, high, example: 1H - 2S - 3D - 3H - 3NT - 4C - 4H = 1-4-5(6)-3(2) 4th step (3Mjr) = extra trump length with a side 4 card suit, next bid (3Mjr + 1) asks for 2nd suit: low, mid, high (3Mjr + 2 would ask for shortness) 3NT = extra length (6+) without second suit, next bid asks for shortness: low, mid, high New suits above 3Mjr = 5+/5+ Shortness ask: low, mid, high (example: with Axxxx, x, AQJ, xxxx and 1S from partner) Invitational opposite 8 to 10, usually balanced (15+ to 17- with 4 trumps or 14+ to 16- with 5 trumps) Invitational opposite 10 to 12, usually balanced (13+ to 15- with 4 trumps or 12+ to 14- with 5 trumps) Preemptive, 4+ Trumps (Usually 5), 0-11 hcp Big splinter in other Major, Slam interest, 1st or 2nd round control of all side suits Big Splinter in m, slam interest, 1st or 2nd round control of all side suits Intermediate with 4 trumps or any with 5+ trumps, no slam interest Straight Ace Blackwood

1Mjr 2 1Mjr 2 1 2 1Mjr 2Mjr

1Mjr 2Mjr+1
(1 2 or 1 2NT)

1Mjr 2Mjr+2
(1 2NT or 1 3)

1Mjr 2Mjr+3
(1 3 or 1 3)

1Mjr 2Mjr+4
(1 3 or 1 3)

1Mjr 3Mjr 1Mjr 3Mjr+1

(1 3 or 1 3NT)

1Mjr 4m 1Mjr 4Mjr 1Mjr 4NT

Handling Interference
After 1 Double ? Pass = Weak with no runout suit (Opener should XX with only 4 cards and no 6+ minor) Redouble = 14+ hcp without support for Hearts 1 = 5+ Spades NF 1NT = Transfer to Clubs, either weak with 6+ Clubs or Constructive with 5+ Clubs 14

2 = Transfer to Diamonds, either Weak with 6+ Diamonds or Constructive with 5+ Diamonds 2 = Good raise to 2 (approx 8 to 13) 2 = Junk raise to 2 All bids above 2 are same as without interference After 1S Double ? Pass = Weak with no runout suit (Opener should XX with only 4 cards and no 6+ minor) Redouble = 14+ hcp without support for Spades 1NT = Transfer to Clubs, either weak with 6+ Clubs or Constructive with 5+ Clubs 2 = Transfer to Diamonds, either Weak with 6+ Diamonds or Constructive with 5+ Diamonds 2 = Transfer to Hearts, either Weak with 6+ Hearts or Constructive with 5+ Hearts 2 = Good raise to 2 (approx 8 to 13) 2 = Junk raise to 2 All bids above 2 are same as without interference After 1 1 ? Pass = Weak X = Negative, new suit continuations are forcing 1NT = 10 to 12 hcp balanced 2/2 = 5+ cards NF 2 = Single raise All bids above 2 are same as without interference After 1M 1NT ? Pass = Weak X = Penalty 2 through 2 = Natural to Play 2NT through 3 = constructive Transfers with a good hand and 6+ cards in suit (4+ if transferring to M) After 1M 2X ? Use same system as after 1NT 2X (Rubensohl etc.) After 1M 2M (Michaels) - ? Transfers starting with 2NT cheapest bid of OM or transfer to OM = 4+ card support with 14+ hcp (1 - 2 2 or 1 2 3) 3M = 8-10 hcp Transfer to M = 11-13 hcp After 1M 2NT (minors) ? Pass = less than Constructive unless followed by Double which shows 4 cards in other Major X = Penalty oriented unless followed by OM which shows a bad 5 card suit 3 = GF with OM 3 = Limit Raise or Min. GF 3/3 = Competitive but NF 3NT = Slammish Raise or Non Min. GF After 1M 3X (or higher) ? Pass = weak X = Negative 3M = Competitive but mildly Invitational anything else = natural and GF 15

1 T Opening
1 T 2 Stayman 1NT 2, 2 2Mjr is a mild Invitation with 5+ cards (also after 2 2) 1NT 2, 2Mjr 3oMjr is a slam try with shortness 1NT 2, 2Mjr 4 Balanced quantitative raise with fit 1NT 2, 2Mjr 4 KC Gerber (1430) Transfer to Hearts, opener supper accepts with 4 trumps unless 4-3-3-3. 2 by responder forces 2NT then: 3 shows 5 / 5 Inv 3 shows 5 / 5 Inv 3 shows 5 / 5 Inv 3 shows 5 / 5 GF Transfer to Spades, opener supper accepts with 4 trumps unless 4-3-3-3 Transfer to clubs, Bid it if you like it Opener accepts with Kxx or better or Absolute max with (A/K)x Transfer to diamonds, Bid it if you like it Opener accepts with Kxx or better or Absolute max with (A/K)x GF, 3 suited with 4 or 5 Clubs 3 asks for shortness (responses: low / middle / high) GF, 3-1 or 1-3 in the majors. 3 asks for shortness (responses: low / high) GF, Both Minors 5+/5+, 3 asks for shortness (responses: low / high) GF, 3 suited with short clubs To Play, tends to deny 4-card major or 6-card minor Gerber: responses 0 or 4 / 1 / 2 / 3 Transfer to Hearts Transfer to Spades

1 T 2

1 T 2 1 T 2 1 T2 T 1 T 3 1 T 3 1 T 3 1 T 3 1 T3 T 1 T 4 1 T 4 1 T 4 1 T 4 1 T4 T 1 T5 T

Quantitative: 5m shows 5 card suit, 5M 4cards in corresponding minor, (5NT shows 2 aces) Pick a Slam (6 or 7)

Extended Aces Slam tries over Transfers and Stayman 3 of the Other Major shows an unbalanced slam try, next step asks for shortness 4 is Keycard for the transfer suit (14-30) 4 shows a quantitative 4N with 5+ in the major 4M is a mild Slam try Jumps in forcing auctions are picture bids Jump to game = good trumps 1NT P - 2 P, 2 P - 3 P, 4 Jump to unbid suit = Double fit 16

Invitational and forcing 2-suiters 1NT P 2 P, 2 P 3 P, ? o 3 guarantees 3+ trumps; new suit by responder is shortness o 3/3 concentration, potentially weak stopper in the other suit. 1NT - P 2 P; 2 P 3 P; 3 P 3NT exactly 5422 1NT P 2 P; 2 P 2 (relay to 2NT) P; 2NT P - ? o 3/3 = 5 + 5 inv o 3 = Invitational with 5 Hearts + 5 Spades o 3 = Game Forcing with 5 Hearts + 5 Spades After transfer to a minor: 4NT Quantitative with 5-card suit 4m Quantitative with 6-card suit and no shortness Jump in next higher suit 4d/c or 4/d 1430 keycard Rubensohl (Transfer Lebensohl) after 1NT - (2M) - ? 2 level = to play 2NT = relay to 3 (clubs or Competitive with either diamonds or OM) 3 = transfer to diamonds invitational or better 3 = transfer to OM invitational or better 3M = Stayman with shortness 3OM = both minors GF X is negative 1NT - (2) - ? (2=natural) 2 level is to play 2NT = relay to 3 (to play or) 2NT 3 ? o 3 = GF with 5+ clubs and a 4 card Major o 3/3 = GF with 5+ clubs and 5 cards in / 3 = GF Stayman with short diamonds 3/3 = Transfer with Invitational or better 3 = GF with 6+ clubs and no Major X is negative After 1NT 2NT (minors) ? Pass followed by X = Competitive with both majors X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3M which is Natural and GF 3 = GF with 5+ hearts & 4+ spades 3 = GF with 5+ spades & 4+ hearts 3/3 = Constructive but NF Meckwell style Runouts after 1NT X - ? Pass forces XX - either strong or scramble XX forces 2 - either single suit minor or both Majors 2 = + Higher 2 = + Major 2/2 = Natural sign-off 17

2 Opening 1st & 2nd Seat

2 2
Artificial Game Force, responses: 2M show Shortness and a Max 2NT show a Max without 4+ Diamonds or Shortness 3 show a minimum with 6+ Clubs 3 show a minimum with 4+ Diamonds 3M show a Max with 4+ Diamonds and shortness in M Responder rebids are natural Constructive non forcing, Opener may pass with minimum or: 2 show a Max and a feature with a fit 2NT show a Max without a fit 3 show minimum without a fit 3 show a max with 4+ Diamonds and at least tolerance for Hearts 3 show a non minimum with Jx or better Jump to game with maximum, a good fit and side shortness. Constructive non forcing, Opener may pass with minimum or: 2NT show a Max without a fit 3 show minimum without a fit 3 show a max with 4+ Diamonds and at least tolerance for Spades 3 show a Max and a feature with a fit 3 show a non minimum with Jx or better Jump to game with maximum and good fit and side shortness. Invitational non forcing Opener with minimum may pass or bid 3 to play Opener with maximum may bid 3 with 4+ diamonds, bid 3Mjr with shortness or bid 3NT. Preemptive Splinter raise Splinter raise Splinter raise To Play Preemptive Key Card ask (1430) To Play

2 2

2 2

2 2NT

2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3NT 2 4 2 4 2 4Mjr

18

2 Opening 1st & 2nd Seat

2 2
Constructive non forcing, Opener may pass with minimum or: 2 show a Max and a feature with tolerance for Hearts 2NT show a Max without a fit 3 show a minimum with 4+ Clubs and without a fit 3 show a minimum without a fit 3 show a non minimum with Jx or better Jump to game with maximum and good fit and side shortness. Constructive non forcing, Opener may pass with minimum or: 2NT show a Max without a fit 3 show a minimum with 4+ Clubs and without a fit 3 show a minimum without a fit 3 show a Max and a feature with tolerance for Spades 3 show a non minimum with Jx or better Jump to game with maximum and good fit and side shortness. Art. Force, new suit by responder later is GF. Responses: 3 shows a minimum and 5+/4+ in the minors (but not 5/5) 3 shows a minimum and 6+ diamonds 3Mjr shows Shortness and a Max 3NT shows 5+/4+ in minors and a Max or solid diamonds. Limit Raise with approx 11+ to 14 hcp and 3+ diamonds 3M by Opener show Stopper with Max Preemptive Natural and forcing Natural and forcing To Play Keycard Blackwood (1430) Preemptive To Play

2 2

2 2NT

2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3NT 2 4 2 4 2 4Mjr

2 2Mjr: same idea as after 2. The goal is not to miss best spot, especially playing matchpoints. 2 2NT: almost G/F, responder may pass negative rebid (3/3). 2 3Mjr: natural and g/f.

19

2Major Opening 1st & 2nd

2 2 2Mjr 2NT
Natural and forcing opener is expected to raise with Hx Invitational respond as if Ogust, Make sure to force to game with Max. Responses: 3 Bad Hand and Good Suit Good Hand and Bad Suit 3 3Mjr Bad Hand and Bad Suit 3OMjr Good Hand and Good Suit 3NT Solid suit, no other controls Natural and forcing opener is expected to raise with Hx or show a feature safely between 3m and original Major. Preemptive Natural and forcing opener is expected to raise with Hx

2Mjr 3m 2Mjr 3Mjr 2 3 2 3 2Mjr 3NT 2Mjr 4 2Mjr 4 2Mjr 4Mjr 2 4 2 4

Continuations:

To Play KC Gerber, responses are 0 / 1 / 1 with Q / 2 / 2 with Q / 3 Big Balanced slam try Preemptive To Play To Play

After a new suit we will raise with Qx or better After Ogust ask or new suit 4 is KC and the cheapest step that is not the original trump suit or 3NT is a shortness ask. (Shortness asks supersedes KC Gerber). The responses are none / low / middle / high All auctions after a new suit or 2NT are at least invitational the preemptor may bid game over 3M if they have a max or an unusual hand.

20

1 Opening Responses 3rd & 4th Seat

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1NT 1 2
0 to 4 hcp or 5 to 6 hcp without 4+ card Major or 5+ card minor 5 to 9 hcp, 4+ Hearts 5 to 9 hcp, 4+ Spades GF, 7-9 hcp, no 4+ card major, no 5+ card minor GF, 5 to 9 hcp, 5+ Clubs, no 4+ card major, Continuations: 2/2/3/3 are Natural and limited to 22 hcp 2NT = balanced 20 to 22 or 25+ 3NT = balanced 23 to 24 3/3 show a strong suit (like a 2/1 jump rebid). 2 is an asking bid (tends to show either a stronger unbalanced hand or some 3 suited hand), Responder than will describe his hand: 2 = 5 to 7 hcp, 4 Diamonds, 5+ Clubs with Heart shortness 2 = 5 to 7 hcp, 4 Diamonds, 5+ Clubs with Spade shortness 2NT = 5 to 9 hcp, 2/3/3-5 3 = 5 to 9 hcp, 6+ clubs (denies 4+ Diamonds) 3 = 5 to 9 hcp, 2-2-4-5 GF, 5 to 9 hcp, 5+ Diamonds, no 4+ card major, continuations: 2/2/3/3 are Natural and limited to 22 hcp 3NT = balanced 22 to 24 3/3 show a strong suit (like a 2/1 jump rebid). 2NT is an asking bid, Responder than will describe his hand: 3 = 5 to 9 hcp, 2-2-5-4 3 = 5 to 9 hcp, 6+ Diamonds (denies 4+ Clubs) 3 = 5 to 9 hcp, 4 Clubs, 5+ Diamonds with Heart shortness 3 = 5 to 9 hcp, 4 Clubs, 5+ Diamonds with Spade shortness 3NT = 5 to 9 hcp, 2/3/3-5 GF, 5 to 7 hcp, 2 suiter 5/5 or better (but not both minors), continuations are: 2/3/3/3 by opener are Natural (6+ cards in suit) 2 T is an asking bid, responses are: 3 = Diamonds + Major (3 ask - responder bids the Major he doesn't have) 3 = Both Majors 3 = Spades + Clubs 3 = Hearts + Clubs GF, 5 to 7 hcp, 3 suited hand, Opener can ask for shortness with 2NT or show a single suit of his own.

1 2

1 2

1 2

21

After 1 Opening Responses

1 1 1
Forces 1 can be any one of these hands: 4) Natural Hearts with an unbalanced hand (min) 5) 2-suited Game Force 6) Various Balanced Hands 1 1, 1 1, 1NT 23 25 hcp 1 1, 1 1, 2NT 28 29 hcp 1 1, 1 1, 2// Natural minimums Spades and another 1 1, 1 1, 2 1 1, 1 1, 3 Clubs and Diamonds Diamonds and Hearts 1 1, 1 1, 3 Hearts and Clubs 1 1, 1 1, 3 Forces 2, can be one of these hands 3) Natural suited Game Forcing Hands 4) Game Forcing Balanced Hand 1 1, 2 2, 2NT 30+ hcp 1 1, 2 2, 3/// Natural GF 1 suiter Natural near game forces

1 1 2

1 1 2/3/3/3 1 - 1 3/3NT/4/4 1 1Mjr 1N

Modified KC ask (3NT for Hearts) 0 / 0+Q / 1 / 1+Q Game Forcing and semi artificial, Responses: Balanced minimum (5 or 6 hcp) 2 2NT Balanced (7 to 9 hcp) All other bids are natural

22

Other Sequences Splitting ranges after a Negative response, we use 1H and 2H as Kokish type bids. If the next bid is not Notrump they show 2 or 1 suited hands, the High relay shows big hands (2C standard Openers). So far we have: 1) 1 1, 1NT 2) 1 1, 1 1, 1NT 3) 1 1, 2NT 4) 1 1, 1 1, 2NT 5) 1 1, 2 2, 2NT 20 22 hcp 23 25 hcp 26 27 hcp 28 29 hcp 30+ hcp

Power 2 Suiters / Game Forcing 2 suiters 1) 1 1, 1 1, 2 2) 1 1, 1 1, 3 3) 1 1, 1 1, 3 4) 1 1, 1 1, 3 Spades and another suit use 2NT to ask Clubs and Diamonds Diamonds and Hearts Hearts and Clubs

Power 1 suiters / Game Forcing 1 suiters 5) 6) 7) 8) 1 1 , 2 2 , 3 1 1 , 2 2 , 3 1 1 , 2 2 , 3 1 1 , 2 2 , 3 Clubs - demand cue or raise Diamonds - demand cue or raise Hearts - demand cue or raise Spades - demand cue or raise

23

1 Opening 3rd & 4th Seat

1 - 1
Natural, 4+ hearts, 5 to 9 hcp, Non Forcing. If opener re-bids: 2m it shows a maximum with 5-card minor and 4-card support. 2NT shows a max with 5 card support 2M shows non minimum with 4 or 5 card support Pass minimum with 3 or 4 card support 1NT any range denies 3 Hearts unless max (2 is NMF) Natural, 4+ Spades, 5 to 9 hcp, Non Forcing. Openers responses are the same as over 1 1 6 to 9 hcp, No 4-card Major, No 6 card minor. Opener should correct to 5 card suit with suit type hand. 5 to 9 hcp, 6+ Clubs, no 4+ card Major, Non Forcing. 5 to 9 hcp, 4+ Diamonds, no 4+ card Major. 0 to 4 hcp, 7+ Hearts 0 to 4 hcp, 7+ Spades 0 to 4 hcp, 7+ Clubs 0 to 4 hcp, 6+ Diamonds

1 - 1 1 1 T 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 1 3 1 3

1Major Opening 3rd & 4th Seat

1 1 1Mjr 1NT 1Mjr 2 1Mjr 2 1 2 1Mjr 2Mjr 1Mjr 2Mjr+1 (1 2 or 1 2NT) 1 2NT 1Mjr 3m & 1 3 1Mjr 4Mjr
Natural 4+, 5 to 9 hcp, non forcing 6 to 9 hcp (could have 5+ clubs) Reverse Drury, 4+ trumps, 7 to 9 hcp, no shortness, no strong side suit, new suit by opener is a natural game try 5+ cards in suit, 7 to 9 hcp, no shortness, non forcing 5+ cards in suit, 7 to 9 hcp, no shortness, non forcing Single raise 3 or 4 trumps, 5 to 7 support points, opener is only expected to bid with extra distribution (5-5 max or better) 4+ trumps, 5 to 7 hcp, unbalanced without a strong side suit, next bid ask for shortness: low, middle, high Fit Showing Jump Shift with good Spades, 6 to 9 hcp Fit Showing Jump Shift with a good suit, 6 to 9 hcp 6+ trumps

24

2 Opening 3rd & 4th seat

2 2/2/2 2 2NT
Fit Showing, 6 to 9 hcp, 5+ cards in suit & 3+ Clubs Invitational, 7 to 9 hcp, 3+ card support, Shortness ask Opener show shortness or bid game with max or sign off with a minimum. Preemptive Preemptive

2 3 2 4

2 Opening 3rd & 4th seat

2 2/2/3 2 2NT
Fit Showing, 6 to 9 hcp, 5+ cards in suit & 3+ Diamonds Invitational, 7 to 9 hcp, 3+ card support, Shortness ask Opener show shortness or bid game with max or sign off with a minimum. Preemptive Preemptive

2 3 2 4

2Major Opening 3rd & 4th seat

2 2/3/3 2 3/3/3 2Mjr 2NT
Fit Showing: 6 to 9 hcp, 5+ cards in suit, Hx or 3+ card support.

Invitational, 7 to 9 hcp, Hx or 3+ card support, Shortness ask Opener show shortness or bid game with max or sign off with a minimum. Preemptive Preemptive

2Mjr 3Mjr 2Mjr 4Mjr

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Handling Interference
1 Auctions
After 1 1X ? (or 1 X - ?) Pass = 0-7 with no biddable 6+ card suit X (or XX) = 8+ denying any of the other bids, usually a hand that would have bid 1NT 1/1/1 = Natural, Forcing for 1 round, system on Transfers starting at 1NT with 11+ hcp and 5+ cards in suit (opener should only accept with 3+ cards in support for the transfer suit) Transfer to overcalled suit is GF with 4 cards in any unbid major/s 2 = GF 11+ to 15 balanced as in notes after 1 - 2NT, except that 2NT by opener is a relay showing a single suited hand responder will show his range (3=min, 3=max) and opener than set trumps 2NT through 3 = preemptive Transfers with 6+ cards and 4-6 hcp in the suit (no more than a Q outside) 3 = 16+ balanced 3NT = 1 loser suit in Major same as without interference After 1 1NT - ? Pass = weak X = Penalty 2 through 2 = Transfers to play 2NT through 3 = constructive Transfers with a good hand and 6+ cards in suit After 1 2X ? Pass = weak X = Negative 2/2/2 = To play with about 5-9 hcp All bids starting with 2NT follow our Rubensohl agreements treating opener as 16-18 NT After 1 2NT (minors) ? Pass followed by X = Competitive with both Majors X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3M which is natural and GF 3 = GF with 5+ hearts & 4+ spades 3 = GF with 5+ spades & 4+ hearts 3/3 = Constructive but NF After 1 2NT (+) Pass followed by X = Competitive with Spades and Clubs X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3 or 4 which is forcing 3 = Constructive but NF 3 = GF with exactly 4 Spades and 5+ clubs 3 = GF with 5+ Spades and 4+ clubs 3 = Constructive but NF After 1 3X (or higher) ? Pass = weak X = Negative Anything else = natural and GF

26

1 Auctions
After 1 X ? Pass = Weak with 3+ Diamonds XX = 13+ hcp without a better descriptive bid 1/1 = 4+ cards Forcing for 1 round systems on 1NT = 9 to 12 hcp balanced 2/2/2/2 = 5+ cards NF 2NT = Natural and GF system as after 1 2NT without interference? (why not XX?) All bids above 2NT same as without interference? (why not XX?) After 1 1X ? Pass = Weak X = Negative, new suit continuations are forcing 1 = 5+ Spades, Forcing for 1 round 1NT = 9 to 12 hcp balanced 2/2/2/2 = 5+ cards NF 2NT = Natural and GF system as after 1 2NT without interference? All bids above 2NT same as without interference? After 1 1NT ? Pass = Weak X = Penalty 2 through 2 = Natural to Play 2NT through 3 = constructive Transfers with a good hand and 6+ cards in suit After 1 2X ? Use same system as after 1NT 2X (Rubensohl etc.) After 1 2NT (minors) ? Pass followed by X = Competitive with both majors X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3M which is Natural and GF 3 = GF with 5+ hearts & 4+ spades 3 = GF with 5+ spades & 4+ hearts 3/3 = Constructive but NF After 1 2NT (+) ? Pass followed by X = Competitive with Spades and Diamonds X = Penalty oriented unless followed by a natural bid which is forcing 3 = GF with exactly 4 Spades and 5+ Diamonds 3 = Constructive but NF 3 = GF with 5+ Spades and 4+ Diamonds 3 = Constructive but NF After 1 3X (or higher) - ? Pass = weak X = Negative Anything else = natural and GF

1 Major Auctions
After 1 Double ? Pass = Weak with no runout suit (Opener should XX with only 4 cards and no 6+ minor) Redouble = 14+ hcp without support for Hearts 27

1 = 5+ Spades NF 1NT = Transfer to Clubs, either weak with 6+ Clubs or Constructive with 5+ Clubs 2 = Transfer to Diamonds, either Weak with 6+ Diamonds or Constructive with 5+ Diamonds 2 = Good raise to 2 (approx 8 to 13) 2 = Junk raise to 2 All bids above 2 are same as without interference After 1S Double ? Pass = Weak with no runout suit (Opener should XX with only 4 cards and no 6+ minor) Redouble = 14+ hcp without support for Spades 1NT = Transfer to Clubs, either weak with 6+ Clubs or Constructive with 5+ Clubs 2 = Transfer to Diamonds, either Weak with 6+ Diamonds or Constructive with 5+ Diamonds 2 = Transfer to Hearts, either Weak with 6+ Hearts or Constructive with 5+ Hearts 2 = Good raise to 2 (approx 8 to 13) 2 = Junk raise to 2 All bids above 2 are same as without interference After 1 1 ? Pass = Weak X = Negative, new suit continuations are forcing 1NT = 10 to 12 hcp balanced 2/2 = 5+ cards NF 2 = Single raise All bids above 2 are same as without interference After 1M 1NT ? Pass = Weak X = Penalty 2 through 2 = Natural to Play 2NT through 3 = constructive Transfers with a good hand and 6+ cards in suit (4+ if transferring to M) After 1M 2X ? Use same system as after 1NT 2X (Rubensohl etc.) After 1M 2M (Michaels) - ? Transfers starting with 2NT cheapest bid of OM or transfer to OM = 4+ card support with 14+ hcp (1 - 2 2 or 1 2 3) 3M = 8-10 hcp Transfer to M = 11-13 hcp After 1M 2NT (minors) ? Pass = less than Constructive unless followed by Double which shows 4 cards in other Major X = Penalty oriented unless followed by OM which shows a bad 5 card suit 3 = GF with OM 3 = Limit Raise or Min. GF 3/3 = Competitive but NF 3NT = Slammish Raise or Non Min. GF After 1M 3X (or higher) ? Pass = weak X = Negative 3M = Competitive but mildly Invitational anything else = natural and GF 28

1 T Auctions
Rubensohl (Transfer Lebensohl) after 1NT - (2M) - ? 2 level = to play 2NT = relay to 3 (clubs or Competitive with either diamonds or OM) 3 = transfer to diamonds invitational or better 3 = transfer to OM invitational or better 3M = Stayman with shortness 3OM = both minors GF X is negative 1NT - (2) - ? (2=natural) 2 level is to play 2NT = relay to 3 (to play or) 2NT 3 ? o 3 = GF with 5+ clubs and a 4 card Major o 3/3 = GF with 5+ clubs and 5 cards in / 3 = GF Stayman with short diamonds 3/3 = Transfer with Invitational or better 3 = GF with 6+ clubs and no Major X is negative After 1NT 2NT (minors) ? Pass followed by X = Competitive with both majors X = Penalty oriented unless followed by 3M which is Natural and GF 3 = GF with 5+ hearts & 4+ spades 3 = GF with 5+ spades & 4+ hearts 3/3 = Constructive but NF Meckwell style Runouts after 1NT X - ? Pass forces XX - either strong or scramble XX forces 2 - either single suit minor or both Majors 2 = + Higher 2 = + Major 2/2 = Natural sign-off

Defense against Landy / Cappelletti / Michaels (2C or 2D showing both Majors)

Pass followed by X = Competitive with both minors X = Penalty oriented Unless followed by 3m which is natural and GF 2 = 5+ Diamonds and 5-9 hcp 2 = GF (or up to 4m) with Hearts stopped looking for a Spade stopper for 3NT 2 = GF (or up to 4m) with Spades stopped looking for a Heart stopper for 3NT 2NT = Transfer to Clubs with 6+ clubs and 5-9 hcp (or correct to Diamonds if 2 was not available) 3 = Natural and GF 3 = Natural and GF 3 = GF with 5+ Clubs and 4+ Diamonds 3 = GF with 5+ Diamonds and 4+ Clubs 29

General System Notes

Defense against Weak 1NT
(1NT) X (P) ? 2 Level = natural sign-off 2NT = good 2-suited hand. 3 Level = Invitational (1NT) - X (2 through 2) ? X = takeout, anything else follow our Rubensohl agreements as if we opened 1NT

Defense against strong 1NT

(1NT) 2! (P) 2NT!, P ? 3 = 4 Hearts and 5 Diamonds 3 = 4 Spades and 5 Diamonds 3/3 = 5+ card suit natural (1NT) 2! (P) 2! / (P) 2M (P) 2NT! / (P) ? 3 = 5+ clubs and 4 cards in M 3 = 4 clubs and 5+ card in M 3/3 = 5+/5+

Balancing NoTrump Continuations

2/2 = Transfer (systems on as after 1NT opening) 2 = minor suit Stayman 2N = Invitational 3 Level natural & Invitational 2 = Stayman, continuation is the following: 2 = minimum 11-13 hcp no 4 card major 2/2 = natural 11-13 hcp 2NT = 14-16 hcp (3 = Re Stayman)

Michaels Continuations
(1m) 2m (P) - ? 2NT = Inv+ for hearts 3m = Inv+ for Spades (1M) 2M (P) - ? 2NT = inv+ in the minor 3 = pass or correct 3 = inv+ in the major 3OM = to play

Requirements for 3NT non serious slam try

no one overcalled 8+ major fit no one bid a natural notrump last bid was 3M partner is not narrowly limited (more than 3 hcp range) 30

When to lead K from AK

5 level or higher Partner's preempted suit Your preempted suit

Forcing and Non-Forcing situations

Undiscussed auctions are forcing except lower ranking suit at 2 level at 3 level in lower ranking suit with the interference Always forcing Higher ranking suit Double then bidding a suit is forcing 1 round Jump in a new suit

When is 4NT to play?

a natural notrump was bid before over 4m with no established fit

If opponents last bid was 4M, then 4NT is 2 places to play. Double suggests balanced hand.

31

Partnership Carding agreements

Signals: Upside-Down attitude and count Signals: meaning: LOW to encourage or show an even number of cards. As third hand, we usually give, (in order of priority,)

Attitude
First Discard (via Odd-Even signal) First time following suit (not 3rd hand high situation)

Count
All other times

Suit Preference
First discard (via Odd-Even signal) Discards other than the first one When partners leads K When partner is known to be winning the trick, via a ruff or High Card winner. When count is known or not important Standard Remainder count: A remainder situation occurs after one or more cards has been played by that hand from that suit, but once one "remainder" count card has been played, further cards are suit preference. In general we play attitude signals on opening leads, discouraging the opening lead implies the ability to handle the switch to the Obvious Shift suit. Suit preference signals: standard (low: lower suit, high higher suit) Exceptions to our first signalling priority: Count when dummy wins with the Q or a lower card (or its equivalent eg. K from a holding including the Q) Count to a lead presumed to be from KQ when dummy has Jxx or longer (including AJx(x...). Count when dummy has Kxx (and perhaps Axx) and plays low after partner leads the queen (in general); we are also likely to drop the short ten allowing us to neutralize A10 or K10 doubleton in these cases. Count to a lead presumed to be from AKx(x) if the dummy has Qxx or four or more cards headed by at least the ten. Suit Preference when partner's opening lead sets up (or strikes) unassailable trick(s) in dummy (e.g. ace led and Kx or KQx) AND when third hand is known to have at least three cards in the suit. Suit Preference when partner leads a suit in which we have shown five cards or more. Suit Preference if dummy has a singleton against a suit contract. Given a choice of a positive signal (particularly against notrump) or a negative signal in another suit, we tend toward the positive signal.

32

Leads: Against Suits: Honour Leads are standard Likely to be leading a SHORT SUIT when: Y N (1) Partner is strong or opening leader is known to be weak; Y N (2) Partner has bid or implied that suit; Y N (3) Declarer is "short" in the suit; Y N (4) Dummy's suit is led when it would otherwise be ridiculous; Y N (5) Opening leader has either shown another two-suiter, or has made a takeout double of the suit led (not trumps); Y N (6) Opening leader has preempted in another suit; Y N (7) We are more likely NOT to lead short suits (very often lead my singletons) Y N (8) MORE likely NOT to lead random doubletons. Against Notrump: Ace asks for King asks for Queen asks for Count Attitude Count

Whenever we break a suit, we lead: 2nd highest or 4th Best In PARTNERS suit: we lead 2nd highest (attitude) with small cards if we HAVEN'T raised it; 4th best (count) if we HAVE raised it FREELY The Jack up to dummy's queen, denies King. Splitting honours: high on lead, low in 2nd or 3rd Discarding honours: highest of touching honors. Lead tendencies: 2nd and 4th best against trump contracts 2nd and 4th best against notrump contracts Trump leads: often Passive lead situations: slow auctions Doubles of 1NT-3NT: shorter major with no honors Double after a Stayman auction (3NT contract): If no-trump bidder responds a major to Stayman lead other major, if no-trump bidder responds 2d lead shorter major. When we double 3NT when one or both of us bids suits, we play these doubles as: Lead our/doublers suit Against major suit games, we lean towards long suit leads to short suit leads when we hold 1 or 4 trumps Failure to attack a more or less obvious suit with another threatening colour in dummy implies that the defence can take care of the threat.

33

General Style Notes

If you dont reopen with double, it tends to show 5/5 in your 2 suits Stretch to reopen with double whenever you have shortness in the bid suit, be careful with trump voids and no defensive tricks. Remember you are not always required to reopen with a double, make sure you can survive the auction. (pass with balanced minimums that include xxx or Hx in opponents suit) Try not to put too much pressure on partner to reopen, if you have a call take it, dont play for penalties, try to find a playable spot. Do not pass on hands where you do not intend to make a penalty pass. Openers Jump re-bids always show extra length and a quality suit
(1 loser opposite a stiff)

Responders direct splinters should show 4-card support and control in the side suits if your hand does not qualify look for an alternate call Opener should try to make a descriptive re-bid, try to make sure you make a natural limiting bid at your second call If the auction is forcing double is penalties If the auction is not forcing double is extras (intended
as takeout)

If the opponents interfere in a forcing auction, below game, retreating to the level forced to, is the weakest action In a forcing auction pass and then pulling a double is the strongest action (slam invitation) When 1 suit has been bid by the opponents a cue bid asks for a stopper When 2 suits have been bid by the opponents, and we have already found a fit, a cue bid shows something in the suit. When 2 suits that have been bid by the opponents are available as Q-bids in support to partners overcall then: lower Q show LR with 3 card support, higher Q show LR with 4 card support, lower Jump Q is Mixed raise Do not push them to contracts they might not otherwise bid / make. Never sign-off with undisclosed shortness in invitational auctions.

34

Weak 3rd Seat Opening Style

Tend to open hands that have something to gain if light make sure the call is lead directing. As responder all jumps by passed hands or in comp guarantee a fit at least 5-4 invitational values. With non fitting hands pass and wait for a reopening double or make a negative double. Responder should avoid jumping in no-trump as a passed hand.

DOUBLES
Generally our doubles are take-out, accept for the doubles listed below. 1. If they overcall a natural Notrump, Double is penalties. 1 of anysuit (1NT overcall) X is penalties 2. If we preempt and they Overcall, Double is penalties. Preempt (Newsuit) X is penalties Also: (Opening Bid) preempt (any Bid) - X is penalties 1x 3. If pass is forcing, Double is penalties. P 2y (2/1 GF) 2z; X is penalties 4. If We balance and they Bid again, Double is penalties. 1H P 2H - P; P 3C P P; 3H - X is penalties 5. If we bid a game on power and they Save Double is penalties. 1M P 2N (Forcing Raise) P; 4M 5m X is penalties pass is forcing. ( Same as 3 i.e. Forcing Pass) If the double is not listed here or defined in some other area AKA Snapdragon, Negative, Support, Lead Directing etc The Double is defined as Takeout, it shows the values to bid at the given level without the distributional requirement to bid at the given level. General Guide / rules for Doubles: If we have a fit in a competitive auction and pass is not forcing Double is a game-try. (ie extras) If we dont have a fit in a competitive auction and pass is not forcing, Double is Cards (ie balanced hand with values to bid at the give level). If this is your first call in the auction, and you have never passed, double is takeout (other suits). If this is your first call in the auction, but you have already passed after an opponent has overcalled. Double is a penalty double of the original overcall.

35

When is Pass Forcing?

We are in a Game forcing Auction 1D P 2C! 2D or- 1S Pass 2NT! 3H An invitational Bid has been accepted 1H P 3C P; 4H 4S A Bid is forcing to a particular Level not yet Reached P P 1H P; 2C! 2D The partnership has had a power auction after a preempt (must include a q-bid by our side) 2H 2S 3H 4H; P 4S 5H 3rd hand preempts and his partner raises to game if we have acted in between. P P 3C X; 5C We have bid a new suit at the 4 level in a competitive auction 1H 2S 3H 3S; 4C 4S General Guides on Forcing Pass situations: 1) When a Pass is forcing, either we play the hand or they play it doubled. 2) Forcing Passes at high levels express doubt. 3) Double suggest playing for penalties. 4) Bidding One More suggests primary distributional extra values. 5) Passing then Pulling a double suggest slam possibilities. 6) Hopeless hands must double in forcing pass auctions to warn partner against bidding.

36