Dwururka by Boguslaw Pazur, 2007 web location: http://www.bridge.com.pl/systemy.html translation by Daniel Neill, 2007 - updated by BP 4-27-08 after winning Polissh Open Trial for 2008 European Championship **************************** Opening Bids Summary **************************** 1C = 4+H, 11+, various shapes, F1 1D = 4+S, 11+, various shapes, usu. denies 4+H 1H = 4+C, 11+, various shapes, no 4M unless 17+ with 5+C 1S = 4+D, 11+, various shapes, usu. no 4M 1N = depends on Vul, mb 5m-4M-2-2 or 5M NV: 10(+)-13 1/2 seats, 11(+)-14 3/4 seats VUL: 14-16 all seats *** NOTE: notes assume strong NT - adjust bal ranges if weak, will be obvious 2C = 5+-4+ majors, weak 2D = multi: weak 2M (occ. 5 or 7) or 22+ NT without 4M 2H = weak, 5+ 5+ shaped (C-H or D-S) 2S = weak, 5+ 5+ colors (D-H or C-S) 2N = 19(+)-21, bal/semibal 1/2 seat: 3m = 6+crds; NV, undisciplined; Vul, 2 of top 3 (if KQ, then side A/K) 3M = 6+crds, undisciplined, 0-7 HCP, too weak for 2D or 4M (3S response = 6+S GF) 3N = solid 7+crd minor, 9-12, no side A/K 4m = pree 4M = 7+crds, vul-dependent 5m = 8+crds, vul-dependent 3/4 seat: 1y = may be light as 9 in 3rd seat NV 1N = 11(+)-14 2y = same distribution as before (in 4th seat, strength just slightly below opening) 3y = 6+crds, pree (in 4th seat, strength just slightly below opening) 3N...5D = as before, based on vulnerability, no slam interest ///////////////////////////////// 1C Opening / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications Handling Direct Interference is at the end of the section. Handling interference by 4th seat is discussed in the section on responder's bid. ************************************************************************************** 1D = semiforcing catchall a) 0-6 any b) 7-11, 6+m 1-suiter, denies 3+H c) 7-11, 5+5+ minors, denies 3+H d) 10(+)-12(-), denies 3+H or 4+S, bal or 31(54) e) 10-11, 3H, denies 4+S, NT-oriented 1H = F1, 4+S, 7+ HCP, usu. denies 4+H 1S = GF relay a) 12+, denies 3+H or 4+S (unless 4S-5+m) b) 15+, 3+H 1N = nat, NF a) 7-10, denies 3+H or 4+S or 6+m, bal or 31(54) b) 7-10(-), 3H, denies 4+S, NT-oriented 2C = v. good H raise, F1 a) 10-14, 3H, denies 4+S, no slam interest b) 12-14, 3433 c) 10-11, 4H bal 2D = simple H raise, 7-9, 3-4H, denies 4+S if just 3H (2N (NV) = 16-17 4H bal NF, 3H = pree 5+H) 2H = limit H raise, 8(+)-10, 4+crds unbal 2S = nat, 6+crds, 6-9(-), NF (denies 3+H) 2N = 12-14, 4+H, some side shortness, GF 3C = mixed H raise, 6(+)-9, 4+H, OR 8-9, 5(4)+H distributional hand, too good for an immediate 4H raise 3D = invite, 6+ decent D, 10-11, denies 3+H or 4+S (4D = invite 4+H-3+D suit-oriented) 3H = pree, 4+H, vul-dependent, 0-6 3S = mini-splinter, 10-11, some shortness, 4+H, enough to force to game 4H = pree/to play, 4+H, distributional, 0-7 4S = to play, pree --------------------------- 1C-1D Continuations --------------------------- 1H = NF a) 11(+)-16, 4H b) 17, 1444 c) 11-16, 5(6)H d) 17, 5(6)H 1-suiter e) 17, 5H-4m 1N = nat invite: 10(+)-12(-) NT shape (or 31[45] or weak 6m), OR 10-11 with 3H but NT-oriented natural continuations: 2m F1, 3C/D/H GF, 2H nat (2S = asks short [2N = S]) 2C = nat NF: 4-9 with 5+ 5+ minors or 6+C (denies 4S), OR 4-6 with 5C-4D short H natural continuations, except: 2D = pref for D (longer than C) 2N = invit relay for shape/strength 3C = 4-6 6+C (3S = only force) 3D = 4-6 5+C-5(4)+D (3S = only force) 3H = 7-9 6+C, GF 3S = 7-9, 5+C-5+D, GF 2D = 4-6, 6+D 2S = 9(+)-11, 5+D-5+C, F1 2N = asks shortness, with transfer responses [3C = H] (after which, 3S is only 100% forcing bid) 2N = 9(+)-11, 6+ pretty good C, doubleton H, invite 3C = 9(+)-11, 6+ pretty good crds, denies doubleton H 1S = NF, 15+ both majors a) 15-21, 4S-5+H b) 15-21, 44(14) c) 18-19, 44(32) d) 22-23(-) 44(32) e) NV: 15-17 44(32) 2N = art GF, ask for side distr, 8(+)-12(-) 3m = GF, 8(+)-11, 6+crds 1N = nat strong, NF a) 17-19 4H bal [denies 4S] b) 17-19 5H-332 c) NV: 16(+)-19 4-5H bal without 4S 2C = 0-5, 6(5)+C 2D = 0-6, 3+H (later new suit by responder = F1) 2H = 0-6, 5+S (later new suit by responder = F1) 2S = 0-11 5+-4+ minors OR 6-11 6+D not short in C 2N thru 4S = same meanings as if in response to an opening 1NT 2C = strong art, F1 a) 18-21, 5+H-4m b) 17-18, 5+H-5+m c) 18+, 1444 d) 22+, 5+H, denies 4+S e) 24+, 4H, denies 4S 2D = 0-6 2H = 5+H-4+C, NF (18-21 if 5+-4, 17-18 if 5+-5+) - NS NF, 2N art F1 asks minor 2S = 22+, 5+H, denies 4+S or 5+D, GF (2N = art asks distr, else nat) 2N = 24+ 4H without 4S bal, or 23+ 5H-332, GF (cont's as after p.III.3) 3C = 18-21, 1444, NF 3D = 22+, 5+H-5+D, GF 3H = 19-21, 6+H-4C, inv 3S = 22+, 1444, GF 2H = 4-6 3H or 3-4 4H 2S = 22+, 5+H, denies 4+S or 5+D, GF (2N = art ask for distr, rest nat) 2N = 24+, bal with 4H and not 4S, or 23+ 5H-332, GF (nat. continuations) 3C = 18-20, 1444, inv 3D = 22+, 5+H-5+D, slam interest, GF 3H 18-20(-), 5H-4C, inv 3S = 21+, 1444 GF 2S = 10(+)-12(-), denies 4+S, bal or 31(54), GF (nat cont., except 2N asks for 4+minor, 3S = 1444) 2N = 6-11, 5+D-5+C, GF (use transfer scheme) 3m = 6+m, denies 3+H or 4+S, GF 3H = 4(+)-6, 4H, GF 2D = F1, strong a) 16-21, 6+H 2H = 11-15, pretty good 6+crds, denies 4S or 5+m, NF 2S = art ask for shortness (2N = S) 2N = nat invite 3m = nat invite 2S = GF, both majors a) 22+, 5+-4+ majors either way b) 22+, 44(14) C) 23+, 44(32) 2N = asks distr (3m = 3+crds short other minor, 3M = 5+crds, 3N = 44[32]) 2N = nat invite, 22-23 bal with 4H and not 4S, OR 22 5H-332 (see section on 2N conts when M known or no M) 3m = 5+H-5+m 18(+)-21, NF NS without jump = nat, F to 4m 3H/4m raises = NF 4-level NS (even jump) = cue setting the minor (but 4C over 3D may be natural) 3M = nat invit, 6+H, 19-21 3S/4m = GF, self-sufficient H suit (7+crds, at most 1 loser), shortness in bid suit, 19+, slam interest --------------------------- 1C-1H Continuations --------------------------- 1S = F1, 3+S (3S 11+, 11-14 4S, 16+ 4+S GF) 1N = 7-11(-), 4S, denies 3+H or 5+m (thinks NT better than S), NF (2m = nat F1) 2C = catchall: 7-11 4S-5+m, 10-11 3H-4S, OR 10-11 5+S - F1 2D = 13(+)+, 3-4 S, accepts invite, F1 2H = 10-11, 3H-4+S, GF 2S = 10-11, 5+S, denies 3+H, GF 2N = 10-11, 4S-5+m, GF (3m = longer minor looking for m fit [4om = only force below game]) 3m = 7-9, 4S-5+m, NF 2H = 11-13(-) 35(32) OR 11-12(-) 3S-6H; NF 2N = 7-9, 4S-6+m, prepares s/o in m (F1) 3m = 10-11, 4S-6+m, invit 2S = 11-13 3S-4H bal, OR 11 4S-4/5H no shortness; NF (cont's as after 2H) 2N = 11-13(-) 3S-5H-4+m, OR 11-12 4S-4/5H unbal; F1 3m = looking for length in bid minor (3H = 3S no fit, 3S = 4S no fit, 4m raise = 4+crds) 3m = 11-13(-) 3S-4H-5+m, NF 3H = 12-13(-) 3S-6H; inv 3S = 12, 4S-4/5H no shortness; invite 2D = art, 12+ 2H = 11+, 3S-5+H 2S/2N = asks side dist, setting S/not setting S (nat conts, 3m = 4crds) 2S = 11-14 4S OR 16+ 4+S-4+H 2N = asks shortess (3S/3N = 18+/11-14 with no shortness and just 4H 2N = 3S-4H bal, 11(+)-14/18-19/22+ (3m = may be 4crds) 3m = 11-16, 3S-4H-5+m 2H = 7-9, 4S-3H NF 2S = 7-9, 5+S, NF 2N = 11-12, 4S, denies 3+H, bal, invit 3m = 12+, 5+S-5+m, GF 3H = H splinter for S, GF 3S = 12-14, 5S, NT-oriented, choice of games, GF 3N = 13-15, 42(43), NT-oriented, NF 1N = NF, nat a) VUL: 11-14 no shortness doubleton S, OR 11-15 1444 b) NV: 14-16 no shortness doubleton S, OR 14-16 1444 2C = F1 catchall a) 7-11 5+-4+ S-m either way without 6+S or 3+H b) 10+, 4+S-3H c) 10(+)+, 5+S d) 18+, 4S, slam interest 2D = 11-13 (only NF bids below game are 2M [over 2S, 2N = 1444] and 3C) 2N = relay 3C = 2434/2425 (3H asks: 3S = 5C, 3N = 4C) 3D = 2452 3H = 2533 3S = 2443 3N = 1444 2H = 13-14 2533 (only NF bids 2S/3C, 2N = asks distr) 2S = 13(+)-14 24(43) (only NF bids 2S/3C, 2N = asks distr) 2N = 14-15 1444 (3m = only NF rebids) 3m = 13-14 2S-4H-5m (4C = only NF rebid) 2C = NF, 4+C a) 11-16 5+H-4+C 0-2S b) 11-16 4H-5+C 0-2S [usu not 2425] c) VUL: 16-17 1444 d) NV: 1444 11-13 or 17 2D = 4SF, F1 (any 13+, OR 11-12 4-5S 0-2H, OR 10-11 4-5S 3H, OR 7-9 4+S-5+D 0-2C 0-1H) 2H = 11-13 5+H-4+C (2S/3D/3H = only NF below game, 2N = GF ask [nat conts]) 2S = 11-16 4H-5+C, NV: or also 1444 11-13 2N = GF ask 3C = 11-16 4H-6+C 3D = 11-16 0445 3H = 11-16 1435 3S = 11-16 2425 (3N = NV: 1444 11-13) 3C/3D/3H = only NF below game 2N = 14-16 5H-4C, at least half-stop D (3D = only NF bid below game) 3C = 14-16 5+H-5+C (3D = only NF bid below game) 3D = 14-16 5H-4C, no D stop 3H = 13-16, 6+H-4C 3S = 14-16, 0544 3N = 16-17, 1444 2H = to play (2S = 4S-5+m suggests short S, semiforcing, asks choice of partials) 2S = 9-11, 6+S, denies 3+H 2N/3C = inv 3D = 5-5 GF? 3H = 9-11, 6+S-3H 3S = great S, better invite? 2D = NF, 4+D (11-16 5+H-4+D OR 11-16 4H-5+D (unlikely 2452); denies 3+S 2H = to play (2S = 4S-5+m suggests short S, semiforcing, asks choice of partials) 2S = GF relay 2N = 11-16 4H-5+D (3C waiting further desc.) 3C/3D/3H/3S/3N = 5+H-4+D; acc. to section on distr-asks 2H = 6+H 1-suiter, 11-14, denies 3S, NF 2S = GF relay, asks H quality 2N = 11-14, 6 bad H 3C = 11-14, 6 decent H 3D = 11-13, 7+H 3H = 11-14, self-sufficient 6H 2S = 17+, 5+H 1-suiter or 5+H-4m; GF 2N = relay (3m 5+H-4m, 3H 6+H 1-suiter, 3S/4m self-suficient 7(6)+H autosplinter, 3N/4N 17-19/22-23 2533) 2N = seminat, GF a) 18-19/22+ 24[43] b) 22+ 1444 c) NV: includes 17 24(43) 3m = 4+crds (3N = denies 4fit, else = conc. with 4fit for minor) 3m = GF, 5+H-5+m 17+ 3H = invit, 15-16, good suit 3S = 15-16 val raise (3N asks short: 4m = short, 4H = 4522 extras, 4S = 4522 min) 3N = 18-21, 1444 --------------------------- 1C-1S Continuations --------------------------- 1N = 11(+)+ 4H, OR 11+ 5H-332 2C = relay 2D = 11-16, 4H-5+m (2S = relay with 6+C, 2N = relay with 6+D) 2H = relay 2S = 11-16 4H-5+C (2N rel: 3C 11-13 4H-5C [see 5-4 scheme], 3D+ 14-16 5+-4 scheme) 2N = 11-13 4H-5+D (3C rel: see 5+-4 scheme) 3C = 11-13 4H-6+C (3D rel: see 6-4 scheme) 3D = 14-16 4H-6+D (3H rel: see 6-4 scheme) 3H = 14-16, 3451/4450 3S = 14-16, 1453/0454 3N = 14-16, 2452 2H = 11(+)-14 4H bal, OR 11-14 4H(441) (2N = relay with 6+C, 3C = relay with 6+D) 2S = relay 2N = 11-14 4H-(441) (3C asks l/m/h short) 3C = 11(+)-14 4324/4234 (3D asks l/h doub) 3D = 11(+)-14 4342/4243 (3H asks l/h doub) 3H = 11(+)-14 4432 3S = 11(+)-14 4423 3N = 12-14 3433 2S = 18-19/22+, 4H bal (3C = relay with 6+C, 3D = relay with 6+D) 2N = relay 3C = 4324/4234 (3D asks l/h doub) 3D = 4342/4243 (3H asks l/h doub) 3H = 4432 3S = 4423 3N/4N = 18-19/22+ 3433 2N = 15+, 5H-332 (3C = relay for l/m/h doub, 3D = relay with 6+C, 3H = relay with 6+D) 3C = 11-14, 5H-332 (3D = relay for l/m/h doub, 3H = relay with 6+C, 3S = relay with 6+D) 3D/3H/3S = 15+ 4441 l/m/h short 2D = 12+, 6(5)+C, denies 4+H or 5+D (nat conts) 2H = 12+, 6(5)+D, denies 4+H or 5+C (nat conts) 2S = 12+, 5+D-5+C, short H (nat conts) 2N = 12+, 5+D-5+C, short S (nat conts) 3m/S = 14+, 4+H, short in bid suit 2C = 11-13 5+H not 5332 2D = relay 2H = 11-13 6+H 1-suiter or 6+H-4other (2N/3C relay with 6+C/D denies 3+H) 2S = relay 2N = 6H 1-suiter (3C rel = see 6+ scheme) 3m = 6+H-4m (rel = see 6-4 scheme) 3H/S = 6+H-4S l/h short 3N = 2623 3H = doubleton H, 12+, asks opener to bid 4H unless has max and shortness 3S = any side sing, v. good hand (same as 1C-3S conts) 3N/4m = S/m void 4H = most hands 2S = 11-13, 5H-4other (3C/D relay with 6+C/D denies 3+H) 2N = relay 3m = 5H-4m, not 1543/0544 exactly (relay = see 5-4 scheme) 3H/3S = 5H-4S, l/h short 3N = 3422 2N = 11-13, 5+H-5+C (set minor with transfer method) 3C = 11-13, 5+H-5+D (set minor with transfer method) 3D = 11-13, 7+H 1-suiter 3H = 11-13, 1543/0544 (3S = sets H) 2H = 12+, 6+C denies 3+H or 5+D (nat conts) 2S = 12+, 6+D denies 3+H or 5+C (nat conts) 2N = 12+, 5+D-5+C denies 3+H (set minor by transfer method) 3m/S = 14+, 4(3)+H, short in bid suit 2D = 14+, 6+H no 5m, OR 5H-4C not 5440, OR 0535 2H = relay 2S = 14+, 6+H 1-suiter (2N relay = see 6+ scheme) 2N = 14+, 5H-4C (3C relay = see 5-4 scheme) 3m = 6+H-4m (relay = see 6-4 scheme [note 3N step response = forcing]) 3H/S = 6+H-4S, l/h short 3N = 14+, 0535, F 2S = relay with 6+C (denies 3+H) 2N = relay with 6+D (denies 3+H) 2H = 14+, 5H-4D not 5440, OR 0553 2S = relay (3541/1543/2542/0553) 2N = relay with 6+C (denies 3+H) 3C = relay with 6+D (denies 3+H) 2S = 14+, 5H-4S, OR 46(30) 2N = relay (3C 4531/4540, 3D 4513/4504, 3H 4522, 3S 4630, 3N 4603 F) 3C = relay with 6+C (denies 3+H) 3D = relay with 6+D (denies 3+H) 2N = 14+, 5+H-5+C not 0535 (suit is set by transfer method) 3C = 14+, 5+H-5+D not 0553 (suit is set by transfer method) 3D = 16+, self-sufficient 6+H 1-suiter 3H = 14+, 0544 (3S = art sets H) --------------------------- 1C-1N Continuations --------------------------- 2C = nat NF (11-16 5+H-4+C, 11-16 4H-5+C, 11-17 1444) 2D/2H = to play 2S = max, 3H-4C, good crds usu. 3334 2N/3C = inv 2D = nat NF (11-16 5+H-4+D, 11-16 4H-5+D) 2H = to play 2S = max, 3H-4D, good crds, usu. 3343 2N/3D = inv 2H = to play 2S = asks shortness, H raise 2N = max 3m = H raise with values in m 2S = GF, art (17+ 5+H 1-suiter, 17+ 5+H-4other, 18+ 4H-[441], 22+ 5+S-4+H) 2N = asks for description (all nat, except 3S denies 6+H) 2N = nat invite 3m = GF, 5+H-5+m, 17+ --------------------------- 1C-2C Continuations --------------------------- 2D = 13+ 4H OR 12-13 5+H invitation, F1 2H = 11-13(-) 4H OR 11-12(-) 5H, NF 2S/3m = GF, 15+ 5+H 4+ in bid suit, slam interest 2N = GF relay, 5+H, slam interest (later conts nat except 3N denies shortness) 3m = 10-14, decent 5+m 3H = 10-14, 4H bal 3S = 10-14, 3H, short S, no decent side 5+crd minor 3N = 10-14, 3H, no shortness or decent side 5+crd suit 4m = 10-14, 3H, short m, no decent side 5+crd suit 3H = GF, 5+H, mild slam interest 3S = 13-14, 3(4)H, asks for shortness (slam possible opposite right shortness) (same as 1C-3H-3S) 3N = 13-14, 3H, short S 4m = 13-14, 3H, short m 3S/4m = splinter, slamtry --------------------------- 1C-2H Continuations --------------------------- 2N/3m = F1, 12(+)-13 4+crds (N=S) in the bid suit, gametry OR slam interest 2S = F1, asks shortness 2N/3S = 8(+)-10, 4+H, shortness (N=S) 3H = 9-10, 4+H, no shortness 3N = 10(+), no shortness --------------------------- 1C-2S Continuations --------------------------- 2N = relay, F1, 16+, strain probe and/or slam interest 3C = 6-7, weakish S suit, semiforcing (3S = NF, else F1) 3D = 6-7, decent S suit, semiforcing (3S = NF, else F1) 3H = 8-9(-), weakish S, GF 3S = 8-9(-), decent S suit, GF 3m = 5+H-4+m, 16+, F1 3H = 16-17, decent 6+H, short S, invite 3S = pree, 3+S --------------------------- 1C-2N Continuations --------------------------- 3m = 5+-4+ in H-m, either way, slam interest OR 3D transfer 3H = 4+H, no slam opposite minimum reponse 3S = 13-14, 4+H, asks for shortness (slam possible opposite right shortness) (see 1C-3H-3S conts) 3N/4m = 12-14, 4H, short S/m 3S = slam relay, asks shortness 3N = 12-14, 4+H, no shortness 4m/H = 12-14, 4H, short m/S 3N/4m = serious splinter --------------------------- 1C-3C Continuations --------------------------- 3D = 4+H, art gametry, F1 (says nothing about D) 3H = s/o 3S = GF, asks shortness, slam interest 3N/4m = GF, 5(4)+H, short S/m, slam interest --------------------------- 1C-3H Continuations --------------------------- 3S = GF, asks shortness, slam interest 3N/4m = 0-5, 4+H, short S/m 4H = no shortness 3N/4m = S/m splinter, 4+H, slam interest --------------------------- 1C-3S Continuations --------------------------- 3N = slam interest relay, asks shortness (4m/H = short m/S) THIRD SEAT MODIFICATIONS Opening may be light as 9 HCP P-1C 1D = normal (denies 7-11 with 3H) 1H = normal 1S = normal 2D = NF, 7-10, 4S-5+D 1S = 7-11, 3H, denies 4+S 1N = VUL: 9-14, 4H, denies 5+m; NV: 15-17 bal 2C = 9-16, 4H-5+m, F1 2D = weak, p/c 2H = min, to play 2N = extras, asks minor (3m = min, 3H/3S max with C/D) 3C = extras, 6+C 2D = catchall: 14+ 5+H, 15+ 4H(441), 18-19 4H bal unsure of strain, 22+ 4H bal 2H = min 2S+ = nat, max, F to 3H 2H = 9-13, 5(4)+H 2S/2N/3D/3D/3H = 16+, 5+H, nat GF 3N = 18-19, 4H bal, side suits stopped 1N = normal, denies 3H 2C = 6-9, 5+D-5+C, NF 2S = relay for shortness (transfer scheme); cont's later NF except 3S by opener 2D = normal, promises 4H 2H = invit, promises 4+H, no shortness (2N = relay: 3m = useful 4crds) 2S = 8(+)-10, 4+H, some side shortness (2N asks: same as after 1C-3S-3N) 2N/3D = 8-10, 4+H, decent 5+C/D (3S asks short) 3C = normal 3H = normal 3S = max, any void splinter (3N asks which) -------------------------------- Handling Direct Interference: -------------------------------- (X [= takeout]) Pass = 0-6 XX = 10+, denies 4+H, not too offensive (opps cannot play undoubled, forcing pass) 1D = 3H exactly, 6+ HCP 1H = 4+S, 7+ HCP, may have 3H 1S = 4+H invite, OR game but very bad for slam 1N = 5+C, 7+ HCP, usually denies 3H 2C = 5+D, 7+ HCP, usually denies 3H 2D = 6-9, 4+H 2H = 4+H GF, suit-oriented 2S = 5+S-4H, invite 2N = 4+H GF, NT-oriented 3C = 5+C-4H, invite 3D = 5+D-4H, invite 3H = pree, 4+H 3S = splinter H raise 3N = same as 4H, but promises 1.5+ defensive tricks (forcing pass) 4m = 5+m-4+H, primarily informative in case of competition 4H = pree/semipree, 4+H, denies 1.5+ defensive tricks 4S = to play (1D) X = 6+ HCP, 3H exactly 1H = 4+S, 7+ HCP, usually denies 4+H, may have 3H 1S = 7+ HCP, transfer to NT, does not promise a stopper, usually denies 3+H and 4+S; OR 12+ HCP 5+C 1N = 7+ HCP, 5+C, ususally denies 3+H 2C = transfer cue raise, 4+H, invit 2D = transfer simple raise, 4+H, 6-9 2H = GF raise, 4+H, suit-oriented 2S = 5(+)-9, 6+S, denies 3+H 2N = GF raise, 4+H, NT-oriented 3C = 6+crds, invite 3H = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 3S/4D = splinter, 4+H 4C = 4+H-5+C, may be suggesting whether to compete 5-over-5, or may be slammish 4H = pree/to play, distributional (1H [= art, 2-suiter with 4+S]) X = 10+, no fit 1S = 3H, 6+ HCP 1N = 5+C, 7+ HCP 2C = 5+D, 7+ HCP 2D = 4+H, 6-9 2H = bal invite, 4+crds 2S = distributional invite, 4+H 2N+ = as over 1C-(1S) (1H [= natural]) X = 4+S, 7+ HCP 1S = 7+ HCP, transfer to NT, denies 4+S or 3+H usually, does not promise H stopper 1N = 5+C, 7-11, usually denies 3H 2C = 5+D, 7+, usually denies 3H unless GF 2D = 5+C, GF, bad for declaring NT 2H = good 4+H, 7-9 (in case opponents psyched or had misunderstanding) 2S = 5(+)-9, 6+S 2N = nat invite 3m = 6+crds, invite (1S) X = 7+ HCP, transfer to NT, does not promise a stopper, usually denies 3+H; OR 12+ HCP 5+C 1N = 7+ HCP, 5+C, usually denies 3H unless GF 2C = 7+ HCP, 5+D, usually denies 3H unless GF 2D = 7+ HCP, 3H exactly 2H = 6-9, 4+H 2S = invit raise, 4+H 2N = GF raise, 4+H 3m = 6+crds, invite 3H = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 3S = splinter-raise 4m = 4+H-5+m, may be suggesting whether to compete to 5H, or may be slammish 4H = pree/to play, distributional (1N [= strong]) X = 10+, any 2NS = to play, 4-9 2N = invit raise, 4+H 3m = fit-showing raise 3H = pree 3S = nat invite (1N [= artificial]) X = 10+, no special distribution or fit 2 cue of their suit(s) = GF raise 3 cue of their suit(s) = splinter 4 cue of their suit(s) = exclusion RKC 2NS = nat, 7-9, NF 2N = invit raise, 4+H 3NS = nat invite 3H = pree 4m (not their suit) = fit-showing jump (2C) X = negative, 7+, 4S (may be F with 5+S [2S would later be F1]) - op rebids nat, inc 2H with 5+ 2D = 3H exactly, 7+ 2H = 4+H, 6-9 2S = 5+S, 7-10, NF 2N = transfer cue raise 4+H, invite, or GF with bad values for slam 3C = 5+D, 10+ HCP, F1, denies 4+S, and 3+H if less than GF 3D = GF raise, 4+H, not too soft 3H = pree, 4+crds acc. to vul 3S = 6+S, invite 4C = splinter H raise 4D = 5+D-4+H, may be suggesting whether to compete 5 over 5, or may be slammish 4H = pree/to play, distributional 4S = to play (2D) X = negative, 7+, 4S (may be F with 5+S [2S would later be F1]) - op rebids nat, incl 2H with 5+ 2H = 6-9, 4(3)+H 2S = 5+S, 7-10, NF 2N = 5+C, 10+ HCP, F1, denies 4S, and 3+H if less than GF 3C = transfer cue raise 4+H, invite, or GF with bad values for slam 3D = GF raise, 4+H, not too soft 3H = pree, 4+crds, acc. to vul 3S = 6+S invite 4C = 5+C-4+H, may be suggesting whether to compete 5 over 5, or may be slammish 4D = splinter H raise 4H = pree/to play, distributional 4S = to play (2H [= Michaels-like]) X = 10+, no fit 2S = invite, 4+H 2N = 10+, 5+C, usually not 4+fit 3C = 10+, 5+D, usually not 4+fit 3D = GF raise, 4+H 3H = 7-9, 4+H 3S = splinter raise 3N = distributional raise, but with 1.5 or more defensive tricks (sets forcing pass) 4m = 5+m-4+H, may be suggesting bidding 5H over 4S, or slammish 4H = distributional raise, pree/semipree, denies 1.5 defensive tricks (2S) X = 3H exactly, 9+ HCP 2N = 5+C, 10+ HCP, usually denies 4+H, and denies 3+H if less than GF 3C = 5+D, 10+ HCP, usually denies 4+H, and denies 3+H if less than GF 3D = 4+H, 7-9 or GF 3H = 4+H, invite 3S = GF without stopper, 3+H, or 5+m 4m = 5+m-4+H, may be suggesting whether to bid 5H over 4S, or may be slammish 4H = pree/to play, distributional 4S = pree/to play (2N [= 2-suiter]) X = 10+, no fit lower cue (or only cue if 3m) = invit raise, 4+H 3m (if not cue) = nat, invit, NF 3H = 7-9, 4+H higher cue (if 2 suits) = GF raise, 4+H (if just 1 cue below 3-level, X with GF hands) 3N = distributional raise, pree/semipree, but promises 1.5+ defensive tricks (forcing pass) 4m jump cue = splinter, 4+H 4m NS = 5+m-4+H, may be suggesting whether to compete to 5, or slammish 4H = distributional raise, pree/semipree, denies 1.5 or more defensive tricks (3C) X = 10+, denies 4+H, may be as short as 2 cards 3D = nat, F to 3N/4D 3H = constr/invite, 4+H 3S = nat, GF 4C = slammish raise, 4+H 4D = nat, GF 4H = not pree, good limit/bad GF 4S = to play 4N = RKC H (3D) X = 10+, denies 4+H, may be as short as 2 cards 3H = constr/invite, 4+H 3S = nat, GF 4C = art, slammish raise, 4+H 4D = art, 6+C, GF 4H = not pree, good limit/bad GF 4S/5C = to play 4N = RKC H (3S) X = 10(11)+, denies 4+H, may be as short as 2 cards 4C = art, slammish raise, 4+H 4D = 6+D GF 4H = to play 4S = art, 6+C, F 4N = RKC H 5m = to play (4C/D/S) X = cards H game = to play 4S/5om = to play 4N = RKC H 5cue = cue, slammish raise 5H jump = no cue opp's suit, pd must bid slam with Ace of that suit, or often with King (5m) X = cards 5N = RKC with no runon for Queen of trumps (14/30/2) ///////////////////////////////// 1D Opening / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** 1H = semiforcing catchall a) 0-6 any hand b) 7-11, 6+m 1-suiter, denies 3+S c) 7-9, 5+H-5(4)+m, denies 3+S d) 7-11, 5+D-5+C, denies 3+S e) 10(+)-12(-), semibal, denies 5+H, may be 13(54)/1444 f) 10-11, 3S, NT-oriented g) 7-9, 6+H 1S = art GF (12+ denies 3+S, OR 15+ with 3+S) 1N = nat NF a) 7-10 NT type: denies 3+S or 6+ suit, may be 5431/4441 with short S b) 7-10(-), 3S; NT-oriented 2C = 5+H, F1 a) 10+, 5H, denies 3+S b) 12-14, 5H-3S c) 10+, 6+H, denies 4+S 2D = good S raise a) 10-14, 3S, denies 6+H, denies slam interest b) 12-14, 4S-333 c) 10-11, 4S bal 2H = simple S raise, 7-9, 3+S, F1 (2N [NV] = 16-17 4S bal NF, 3S = pree) 2S = invit S raise, 8(+)-10, 4+S unbal 2N = 12-14, 4+S; no side shortness unless just 4S 3C = nat invite, 10-11, 6+ decent C, denies 3+S (4C = inv, 3+C-4+S, suit-oriented) 3D = mixed S raise: 6(+)-9 5(4)+S semipreemptive, OR 8-9 5(4)+S unbal too good for an immediate 4S jump 3H = nat invite, 10-11, 6+H, suggests short S 3S = pree, 0-6 4+S, vul-dependent 3N = mini-splinter: 10-11, 4+S with some side shortness (4C = asks: D/H/C splinter) 4S = pree/to play, 0-7 4+S, unbal --------------------------- 1D-1H Continuations --------------------------- 1S = min, NF a) 11(+)-16, 4S b) 17 4144 c) 11-16 5(6)S d) 17 5S-4m 1N = nat invite, 10(+)-12(-) semibal or 5m431 short S or weak 6crd minor; also mb 10-11 3S NT-oriented 2m/H = nat, F1 2S = to play (2N = asks for shortness) 3C/D/H/S = GF 2C = 4-9, 6+m or 6+H, semiforcing; no side 5+crd suit 2D = p/c for long suit, may have game interest opposite C Pass/2H = 6+D/H 2S = 4-9, 6+C-2S 2N = 8-9, 6+C short S 3C = 4-7, 6+C short S 2N = game interest relay 3C = 6+C (3H = only force) 3D = 4-6, 6+D (3H/4C = only forces) 3H = 4-6, 6+H 3S = 7-9, 6+D, GF 3N = 7-9, 6+H, GF 2H = nat NF? 2S = to play 2D = both minors, NF: 4-9 5+-5+, or 4-6 5D-4C short S 2M = nat 2N = relay for strength/shortness 3C = 4-6, 5+D-5(4)+C, short H (3H = only force) 3D = 4-6, 5+D-5+C, short S (3H = only force) 3H = 7-9, 5+D-5+C, short H, GF 3S = 7-9, 5+D-5+C, short S, NF 2H = 4-9, 5+H-5(4)+m, NF 2S = to play 2N = asks strength/suit 3C = 4-6, with C (all cont's NF) 3D = 4-6, with D (all cont's NF) 3H = 7-9, with C, GF 3S = 7-9, with D, GF 3C = p/c for minor 2S = v. weak bal 4crd raise? 2N = 9(+)-11, 5+D-5+C, semiforcing 1N = strong, nat NF a) 17-19 4S bal without 4H b) 17-19 5S-332 c) NV: includes 16(+)-19 same shapes 2C = 0-5, 6(5)+C 2D = 0-9, 5+H (NS by opener = F1) 2H = 0-6, 3+S (NS by opener = F1) 2S = 0-11, 5+-4+ minors either way, OR 6-11 6+D without short C 2N...4S = same as over an opening 1N 2C = strong, art F a) 18-21, 5+S-4m b) 17-18, 5+S-5+m c) 18+ 4144 d) 22+, 5+S, denies 4+H e) 24+, 4S bal, denies 4H 2D = 0-6, art 2H = 22+, 5+S, denies 4+H or 5+D, GF (2N = denies 3+S asks further descr, else nat) 2S = 18-21 5+S-4m or 17-18 5+S-5+m, NF (2N = relay, 3red = nat NF) 2N = GF bal, 24+ 4S without 4H or 23+ 5S-332 (see 2N with known major or no M scheme) 3C = 18-21, 4144, NF 3D = 22+, 5+S-5+D GF 3H = 22+, 4144 GF 3S = 19-21, 6+S-4C, inv 2H = 10(+)-12(-), semibal or 13(54), GF 2S = nat 2N = asks for 4+crd minor 3m = nat 3H = 4144 2S = 4-6 3S or 3-4 4S 2N = 22+ 5+S, denies 4+H or 5+D, GF; OR 24+ 4S bal without 4H 3C = 18-20, 4144 inv 3D = 22+, 5+S-5+D, slam interest, GF 3H = 21+, 4144, GF 3S = 18-20(-), 5S-4C invit 2N = 6-11, 5+ 5+ minors, GF (after 3m agreement, transfer scheme is used) 3m = 6-11, 6+crds, denies 3+S, GF 3H = 6-9, 6+H, denies 3+S, GF 3S = 4(+)-6, 4S, GF 2D = art F1; 16-21 6+S or 19-21 5+S-4H 2H = nat NF; 16-18 5+S-4H or 15-17 5+S-5+H 2N = 8(+)-12(-), asks for side distribution, GF 3m = 7-11, 6+m, F1 2S = nat NF; 11-15, 6+ decent S, denies 4+H or 5+m (2N = asks shortness, 3C/D/H = nat IN) 2N = nat invite, 22-23 4S bal without 4H, OR 22 5S-332 (use 2N scheme with known major or no major) 3m = nat invite - 18(+)-21, 5+S-5+m (3S/4m = NF, NS simple = F to 4m, 4NS = cue for minor [but 4C mb nat]) 3H = nat invite, 18-21 5+S-5+H 3S = nat invite, 19-21, 6+S 4m/4H = GF autosplinter, 19+, self-sufficient 7+S, slam interest --------------------------- 1D-1S Continuations --------------------------- 1N = 11(+)+ 4S, or 11+ 5S-332 2C = relay 2D = 11-16, 4S-5+m 2H = relay 2S = 11-16, 4S-5+C 2N = relay 3C = 11-13, 4S-5C (conts follow 5-4 scheme) 3D/H/S/NT = follows 5+-4 scheme, with 14-16 2N = 11-13, 4S-5+D (relay = follows 5+-4 scheme) 3C = 11-13, 4S-6+C (relay = 6-4 scheme) 3D = 14-16, 4S-6+D (relay = 6-4 scheme) 3H = 14-16, 4351 3S = 14-16, 4153/4054 3N = 14-16 4252 2S/N = relay with 6+C/D 2H = 11(+)-14 4S bal denies 4H, OR 11-14 4144 2S = relay 2N = 11-14, 4144 3C = 11(+)-14, 4(32)4 (rel asks l/h doub) 3D = 11(+)-14, 4342/4243 (rel asks l/h doub) 3H = 11(+)-14, 4333 2N/3C = relay with 6+C/D 2S = 4S bal denies 4H, 18-19/22+ 2N = relay (as over 1D-1S-1N-2C-2H-2S) 3C/D = relay with 6+C/D 2N = 15+, 5S-332 (3C rel for l/m/h doub) 3C = 11-14, 5S-332 (3D rel for l/m/h doub) 3D = 15+, 4144 2D = 12+, 6(5)+C, denies 4+S or 5+D (nat conts) 2H = 12+, 6(5)+D, denies 4+S or 5+C (nat conts) 2S = 12+, 5+D-5+C, short H (nat conts) 2N = 12+, 5+D-5+C, short S (nat conts) 3m/3H = 14+, 4+S, shortness in bid suit 2C = 11-13, 5+S unbal 2D = relay 2H = 6S 1-suiter or 6+S-4other 2S = relay 2N = 6S 1-suiter (3C = relay with 6+ scheme) 3m = 6+S-4m (relay = 6-4 scheme) 3H/S = 6+S-4H, l/h short 3N = 6223 2N/3C = relay with 6+C/D, denies 3+H 3S = 2S, forces opener to bid 4S unless max with shortness 3N = any side singleton, v. good hand (same as after 1D-3N) 4m/H = void 4S = most hands 2S = 5S-4other 2N = relay 3m = 5S-4m, denies 5143/5044 (relay = 5-4 scheme) 3H/S = 5S-4H l/h short 3N = 5422 3C/D = relay with 6+C/D, denies 3+H 2N = 5+S-5+C (conts use transfer scheme) 3C = 5+S-5+D (conts use transfer scheme) 3D = 5+S-5+H 3H = 7+S 1-suiter 3S = 5143/5044 (4H = art slamtry S) 2H/S = relay with 6+C/D, denies 3+S or 5+om 2N = 12+, 5+D-5+C, denies 3+S (conts use transfer scheme) 3m/H = 14+, 4(3)+S, shortness in bid suit 2D = 14+, 6+S no 5+ side suit, or 5S-4C, or 5035 2H = relay 2S = 6+S 1-suiter (2N = relay with 6+ scheme) 2N = 5S-4C (3C = relay with 5-4 scheme) 3m = 6+S-4m (relay = 6-4 scheme, but 3N step response is forcing) 3H/S = 6+S-4H, l/h short 3N = 5035, F 2S/N = relay with 6+C/D, denies 3+S 2H = 14+, 5S-4D no void, OR 5053 2S = relay (5341/5143/5242/5053) 2N = 6+C/D, denies 3+S 2S = 14+, 5S-4H or 55(30) 2N = relay (steps: 5431/5440, 5413/5404, 5422, 5530, 5503 F) 3C/D = relay with 6+C/D, denies 3+S 2N = 14+, 5+S-5+C, not 5035 (use transfer scheme) 3C = 14+, 5+S-5+D, not 5053 (use transfer scheme) 3D = 14+, 5+S-5+H, not 55(30) 3H = 16+, self-sufficient 6+H 1-suiter 3S = 14+, 5044 (4H = art, slamtry S) --------------------------- 1D-1N Continuations --------------------------- 2C = diamonds, F1 a) 11+, 5+S-4D b) 11-16 5+S-5+D c) 11-16 4S-6+D or 4054 d) 15-16, 4S-5D e) 16+ 4144 f) 22+, 4342/4243, slam interest 2D/M = nat NF 2N = 3S, max, invite, NT-oriented (NS = seminat F1) 3C = 3343 max 3D = invite 2D = hearts, F1 - 11+ 5+S-4H or 11-16 5+S-5+H 2M = to play 2N = invite 3m = 9-10 4(5)H values in m, OR 9-10(-) 3S values in m usually 33(43) 2H = clubs or good 1-suiter a) 11+, 5+S-4C b) 11-16, 5+S-5+C c) 11-16, 4S-6+C or 4045 d) 15-16, 4S-5C e) 17+, 6+S 2S = 7-10, 2-3S, usu. denies 4+C, rather play in S (bids at 3N or below show S-C, 4C/D/H = 6+S autospl) 2N = 9-10, 4+C (3S = 6+S GF, 4S = to play, else = 4+C) 3C = 7-8, 4+C, denies 3S (3S = 6+S GF, 4S = to play, else = 4+C) 2S = nat, 11-16 2N = asks shortness 3lower = invit to 4S, values in bid suit 2N = invite 3m/H = GF, 5+S-5+bid suit --------------------------- 1D-2C Continuations --------------------------- 2D = GF relay, 14+ (later jumps to 4m = 14+ splinter for H) 2H = 6+H, denies 3+S or 5+m (2N = asks further desc) 2S = 5H, denies 3+S or 5+m (2N = asks further desc) 2N = 5+H-5+C (conts with transfer scheme) 3C = 5+H-5+D (conts with transfer scheme) 3D = 6+H-3S 3H = 12-14, 5H-3S 3S = 0544 3N = 10-11, 5H, suggests short S, NT-oriented 2H = to play, 11-13 2H or 11-12 3H, NF 2S = 10-11, 5H-2S 3H = invite, 9(+)-11, 6+H, 2-3S 3S = 12-14 5H-3S else = nat GF 2S = to play, short H, 11-13 5S or 11-12 6S, NF 3S = invite, 6+H-3S else = nat GF (2N = GF relay shape ask) 2N = 11-13 4144, NF 3y = to play 3m = sets m, slam interest 3m = 11-13, 4+S-5+m, short H, NF 3H = NF else = F 3H = invite, 12(+)-13, 5+S-3(4)H 3N = 5+H, no shortness, slam interest 3S/4m = 5+H, splinter, slam interest 3S = nat invite, 12(+)-13, 6+S, short H 3N = 14-16, 4144, GF 4m = minimum splinter for H, 11-13 4+H or 12-13 3H (14+ splinter relays 2D then jumps to 4m) --------------------------- 1D-2D Continuations --------------------------- 2H = 13+ 4S OR 12-13 5+S 2S = 4S 11-13(-) OR 5S 11-12(-) 2N = GF relay, 15+, 5+S, slam interest (later bids nat, 3N showing no shortness) 3m = 10-14, decent 5+m 3H = 10-11, decent 5H 3S = 10-14, 4S bal 3N = 10-14, 3S, no shortness or decent side 5+suit 4m/H = 10-14, 3S, shortness, no good side 5+suit 3m/H = 15+, 5+S-4+suit, slam interest 3S = GF, 5+S, but no slam unless responder max 3N = 13-14, 3(4)S, asks for shortness (as over 1D-3S-3N) 4m/H = 13-14, 3S, short m/H 4S = min or bad max --------------------------- 1D-2S Continuations --------------------------- 2N = F1, asks shortness 3m/H = 8(+)-10, 4+S, shortness 3S = 9-10, 4+S, no short 3N = 10(+), no short 3m/H = F1, 4+S, 4+crds in bid suit; invite to game or slam --------------------------- 1D-2N Continuations --------------------------- 3S = F, slam only opposite a max responder 3N = 13-14, 4+S, asks shortness, slam possible opposite right shortness (as over 1D-3S-3N) 4m/H = 12-14, 4S, shortness 3N = slammish, asks shortness 4C = 12-14, 4+S, no shortness 4D/H/S[=C] = 12-14, 4S, shortness --------------------------- 1D-3D Continuations --------------------------- 3H = art invite to 4S, says nothing about H 3S = s/o 3N = slamtry, asks shortness 4m/H = slamtry, shortness --------------------------- 1D-3S Continuations --------------------------- 3N = slamtry relay (4m/H = 0-5, 4+S shortness; 4S = no short) 4m/H = slamtry splinter THIRD SEAT MODIFICATIONS Opening may be light as 9 HCP P-1D 1H = normal 1S = 3S, 7-11, NF (other bids deny this) 1N = VUL: 12-14, 4S, denies 5+m; NV: 15-17 4S bal 2C = 11-16, 4S-5+m 2D = p/c, weak 2H = nat s/o? 2S = s/o 2N = extras, asks m (3m = nat min, 3H/S = max with C/D) 3C = extras, 6+C 2D = 14+ catchall: 14+ 5+S, 15+ 4144, 18-19 4S bal unsure of strain, 22+ 4S bal 2H = nat F1 2S = min, NF 2N+ = nat, max, F1 2H = 13-21, 5+S-4+H, F1 (2S = min NF, 2N+ = nat F1) 2S = 9-13, 5(4)+S 2N...3S = 16+, 5+S, nat GF 3N = 18-19, 4S bal, to play, all suits stopped 1N = normal, denies 3S 2C = 6-9, 5+D-5+C, NF 2N = asks shortness (transfer scheme) - later only 3H by opener is forcing 2D = 9-10, 5H, denies 3+S (2H/2S/2N/3H = NF, else = F) 2H = normal 2S = 10-11, 4+S no shortness (2N = asks: 3m/H = decent 4crd suit) 2N = 8(+)-11, 4+S, any splinter (3C = asks splinter: D/H/C) 3C/H = 8-10, 4+S, decent 5+C/D (3N = asks shortness, slam interest) 3S = pree 3N = any void splinter (4C asks) -------------------------------- Handling Direct Interference: -------------------------------- (X [= takeout]) Pass = 0-6 XX = 10+, denies 4+S, not too offensive (opps cannot play undoubled, forcing pass) 1H = 3S exactly, 6+ HCP 1S = 4+S invite, OR game but very bad for slam 1N = 5+C, 7+ HCP, usually denies 3S 2C = 5+D, 7+ HCP, usually denies 3S 2D = 5+H, 7+ HCP, usually denies 3S 2H = 6-9, 4+S 2S = 4+S GF, suit-oriented 2N = 4+S GF, NT-oriented 3C = 5+C-4H, invite 3D = 5+D-4H, invite 3H = 5+H-4S, invite 3S = pree, 4+S 3N = same as 4S, but promises 1.5+ defensive tricks (forcing pass) 4m = 5+m-4+S, primarily informative in case of competition 4H = splinter S raise 4S = pree/semipree, 4+H, denies 1.5+ defensive tricks (1H) X = 6+ HCP, 3S exactly 1S = 7+ HCP, transfer to NT, does not promise a stopper, usually denies 3+S; OR 12+ HCP 5+C 1N = 7+ HCP, 5+C, ususally denies 3+S 2C = 7+ HCP, 5+D, usually denies 3+S 2D = transfer cue raise, 4+S, invit 2H = transfer simple raise, 4+S, 6-9 2S = GF raise, 4+S, suit-oriented 2N = GF raise, 4+S, NT-oriented 3m = 6+crds, invite 3H = splinter raise 3S = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 4m = 4+S-5+m, may be suggesting whether to compete 5-over-5, or may be slammish 4H = Exclusion RKC 4S = pree/to play, distributional (1S [= art, 2-suiter with 4+H]) X = 10+, no fit 1N = 5+C, 7+ HCP 2C = 5+D, 7+ HCP 2D = 3S exactly, 7+HCP 2H = simple raise, 4+S, 6-9 2S = distributional invite, 4+S 2N = GF raise, 4+S, NT-oriented 3m = 6+crds, invite 3H = GF raise, 4+S, suit-oriented 3S = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 4m = 4+S-5+m, may be suggesting whether to compete 5-over-5, or may be slammish 4H = splinter raise 4S = pree/to play, distributional (1S [= natural]) X = 7+ HCP, transfer to NT, denies 3+H usually, does not promise S stopper 1N = 5+C, 7-11, usually denies 3S 2C = 5+D, 7+, usually denies 3S unless GF 2D = 5+H, 7+, usually denies 3S 2H = 5+C, GF, bad for declaring NT 2S = good 4+H, 7-9 (in case opponents psyched or had misunderstanding) 2N = nat invite 3m/H = 6+crds, invite (1N [= strong]) X = 10+, any 2NS = to play, 4-9 2N = dist invit raise, 4+S 3m = fit-showing raise 3S = pree (1N [= artificial]) X = 10+, no special distribution or fit 2 cue of their suit(s) = GF raise 3 cue of their suit(s) = splinter 4 cue of their suit(s) = exclusion RKC 2NS = nat, 7-9, NF 2N = invit raise, 4+H 3NS = nat invite 3S = pree 4m (not their suit) = fit-showing jump (4H = to play) (2C) X = negative, 7+, 4H (may be F with 5+H [2H would later be F1]) - op rebids nat, incl 2S with 5+ 2D = 7-10, 5+H, denies 4+S 2H = 3S exactly, 7+ 2S = 4+S, 6-9 2N = transfer cue raise 4+S, invite, or GF with bad values for slam 3C = 5+D, 10+ HCP, F1, denies 4+S, and 3+S if less than GF 3D = GF raise, 4+S, not too soft 3H = 6+H, invite 3S = pree, 4+crds acc. to vul 4C = splinter S raise 4D = 5+D-4+S, may be suggesting whether to compete 5 over 5, or may be slammish 4H = to play 4S = pree/to play, distributional (2D) X = negative, 7+, 4H (may be F with 5+H [3H would later be GF]) - op rebids nat, incl 2S with 5+ 2H = 7-10, 5+H, NF 2S = 6-9, (3)4+ crdS 2N = 5+C, 10+ HCP, F1, denies 3S and 4+H if less than GF 3C = transfer cue raise 4+S, invite, or GF with bad values for slam 3D = GF raise, 4+S, not too soft 3H = 6+H, invite 3S = pree, 4+crds, acc. to vul 4C = 5+C-4+S, may be suggesting whether to compete 5 over 5, or may be slammish 4D = splinter S raise 4H = to play 4S = pree/to play, distributional (2H) Pass = may contain some good hands with short S X = 3S exactly, 7+ HCP 2S = 4+S, 6-9 HCP 2N = 5+C, 10+ HCP, usually denies 3+S if less than GF 3C = 5+D, 10+ HCP, usually denies 3+S if less than GF 3D = 4+S, GF 3H = takeout, GF without 3+S or 5+m 3S = 4+S, invite 4m = 5+m-4+S, may be suggesting whether to bid 5 over 5, or may be slammish 4H = splinter raise 4S = pree/to play, distributional (2S [= Michaels-like]) X = 10+, no fit 2N = 10+, 5+C, usually not 4+fit 3C = 10+, 5+D, usually not 4+fit 3D = GF raise, 4+S 3H = invit raise, 4+S 3S = 7-9, 4+S 3N = distributional raise, but with 1.5 or more defensive tricks (sets forcing pass) 4m = 5+m-4+S, may be suggesting bidding 5 over 5, or slammish 4H = splinter raise 4S = distributional raise, pree/semipree, denies 1.5 defensive tricks (2N [= 2-suiter]) X = 10+, no fit (or GF raise if only 1 cue available) lower cue (or only cue if 3m) = invit raise, 4+S 3m (if not cue) = nat, invit, NF 3S = 7-9, 4+H higher cue (if 2 suits) = GF raise, 4+S 3N = distributional raise, pree/semipree, but promises 1.5+ defensive tricks (forcing pass) 4m jump cue = splinter, 4+S 4m NS = 5+m-4+S, may be suggesting whether to compete to 5, or slammish 4S = distributional raise, pree/semipree, denies 1.5 or more defensive tricks (3C) X = 10+, denies 4+H, willingness to defend depends on vul 3D = nat, F to 3N/4D 3H = nat GF 3S = constr/invite, 4+S 4C = slammish raise, 4+S 4D = nat, GF 4H = to play 4S = not pree, good limit/bad GF 4N = RKC S (3D) X = 10+, denies 4+S, willingness to defend depends on vul 3H = nat GF 3S = constr/invite, 4+H 4C = art, slammish raise, 4+S 4D = art, 6+C, GF 4H/5C = to play 4S = not pree, good limit/bad GF 4N = RKC S (3H) X = 10(11)+, denies 4+S 3S = to play, not weak 4C = art, slammish raise, 4+S 4D = 6+D GF 4H = art, 6+C, F 4S = to play 4N = RKC S 5m = to play (4C/D/H) X = cards S game = to play 4H/5om = to play 4N = RKC S 5cue = cue, slammish raise 5S jump = no cue opp's suit, pd must bid slam with Ace of that suit, or often with King (5m/H) X = cards 5N = RKC with no runon for Queen of trumps (14/30/2) ///////////////////////////////// 1H Opening / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** 1S = catchall, F1 a) 0-6 any b) 7-9, 5+M, suggests 4+C c) 15+, 5+M d) 7+, 5+D, denies 4+C e) 11+, semibal but wrong for declaring NT, denies 4+C f) NV: (e) may be as light as 10 1N = nat, NF a) VUL: 6(+)-11(-), semibal, usu. denies 4+C or 5+M, may have 5D b) NV: 6(+)-9, bal without 4+C 2C = 10-14, 5+M, F1 2D = inverted minor raise, 10+, 4+C, usu. no 5+M, F1 2H = 6-9, 5+5+ majors, NF 2S = simple C raise, 7-9, 4+C, F1 2N = nat invite a) VUL: 11-12 bal, denies 4+C b) NV: 10 bal, denies 4+C, good hand for declaring 3C = pree, 0-6, 4+C 3D/H/S = 12-15 splinter, 4+C 3N = nat, 13-15 bal, denies 4+C, NT-oriented 4C = pree, 0-6, 5+C --------------------------- 1H-1S Continuations --------------------------- 1N = nat NF a) VUL: 11(+)-13 or 17-19, 4/5 C bal, denies 4M, may be 2245 b) NV: 14-19 (15-19 in 3/4), as above 2C = 5+H, 0-9 or 15+, may have 5+S 2D = VUL: 18-19, 4-5C bal; NV: same but 16(+)-19 conts as after 1N-2D-2H but NS is F1 2H = VUL: 11(+)-14 4/5 C, bal -> further bidding nat GF NV: same but 14-16 (15-16 BPH) -> further bidding as over 2D above 2S...3H = 19, 3H, v. good hand, descriptive conts = as after 1N-xfer-nonaccept, but no retransfer 2D = 5+S, 0-9 or 15+, denies 5+H as above over 2C 2H = 16+, bal/semibal 2S = 3244 2N = 3334 3C = 5C-332 (3D = asks l/m/h doub) 3D = 2245 3H = 2344 2S = diamonds a) VUL: 9-11, 6(5)+D b) NV: 6(+)-8, 6(5)+D 2N = 11(+)-13(-), NT-oriented, to play (3M = short) 3C = 13-14 or 18-19, GF (3M = short) 3D = 11(+)-13(-), to play (3M = short) 2N = 11-12, bal/semibal, invit (3N = to play, suit = nat with 18-19 and slam interest) 3C = diamonds a) 0-4 6(5)+D, or 12+ 5+D, forces 3D (then 3M = 12+ shortness, 4C = 12+ shortness stronger) b) NV: may ALSO be 9+, 6+D 3D = diamonds a) VUL: 6(5)+D, 5-9(-) (3M = worry about oM 18-19, 3N = 18-19) b) NV: 6(5)+D, 5-6 2C = F1, 11-17 6+C 1-suiter or 5+C-4D no 4M 2D = 10+, F1 2H = 11-17, 5+C-3H 2N = relay 3C = 11-13, 6+C-3H, 1-suiter (3D = asks short: D/S/none) 3D = 11-13, 1345/0346 3H = 14-17, 1345/0346 3S = 14-17, 2326, bad doub S 3N = 14-17, 2326, Hx S 3C = NF (3D/M = invit) 2S = 11-17, 5+C-3S, denies 3H 2N = relay 3C = 11-13, 6+C-3S, 1-suiter (3D = asks short: D/H/none) 3D = 11-13, 3145/3046 3H = 14-17, 3145/3046 3S = 14-17, 3226, bad doub H 3N = 14-17, 3226, Hx H 3C = NF (3D/M = invit) 2N = 11-17, 6+C, denies 3M 3C = NF (3D/M = invit) 3D = relay 3H = 11-12 7+C denies 3M, OR 13-17 2227 3S = 11-13 2236 3N = 14-17, 2236 3C = 11-13, 2245, very suit-oriented, OR 11-13 6+C-4D no 3M 3D = 14-17, 6+C-4D, no 3M (3H = asks short: l/h) 3M/N = 14-17, short M/D, 6+C 1-suiter 2M = 7-9 5+M suggests less than 3C, NF; OR 5(+)-6 6+M 2N = natural inv 3C = 6-9, 3C, may have 5M, to play 3D = 10-11, 6+D, inv 3M = 15+, 6+M with at least 3 honors, GF 2D = 18-21, 5+C-4D, no 4M, invite 2M = 17-21, 5+C-4M, invite 2N = GF, 22+, 5+C 3C = Stayman or C fit 3D = no M, side shortness or slam interest 3M = 4M 3N = no 4M, no shortness or slam interest 3C = 18-21, 6+C 1-suiter, inv NF 3D/M = 20+, 6+C to at least 3 honors, autosplinter, F to 3N/4C (4C = double-neg NF, else GF) --------------------------- 1H-1N Continuations --------------------------- 2C = nat, NF, 6+C 11-14, or 11-15 5+C-4D 2D = F1, nat reverse, 16+ 5+C-4D 2M = GF reverse, 17+, 5+C-4M 2N = invite 3C = 15-16, 6+C 1-suiter, invit 3D/M = GF auto-splinter, 17+, 6+C 1-suiter ---------------------------------------- 1H-2C Continuations ---------------------------------------- 2D = GF relay 14+ OR 11-13 6+C suggests short M 2H = 11-13 2H OR 11-12 3H 2/3S 2S = 12(+)-13 2S 3H 2N = 11-13 3145 3C = 11-13 1345 3D = 14+ decent 6+C 3H = 12(+)-13 33 majors invite 3S = GF 33 majors no slam interest 4H = 33 majors no slam interest --------------------------- 1H-2D Continuations --------------------------- 2M/3D = shortness, 11+, F1 (3C = NF, else GF) 2N = GF relay, 14+, no shortness 3C = no shortness 3D/M = 10-11 or 16+, shortness 3N = 10-13, 4C, NT-oriented 3C = s/o, 11-13 no shortness 3M = 14+, weak doubleton, no shortness, F to 3N or 4C (4C = only NF, else GF) --------------------------- 1H-2H Continuations --------------------------- 2N = F1 relay 3m = shortness m, would accept some invite 3H = min, NF (3S = to play) 3S = 6+S-5+H, S longer than H unless 6610, denies D void, non-min, GF 3N = max, 5S-5H, denies 3C 4C = 5503 4D = 6+-5+ majors, D void 4H = 6+H-5+S, H longer than S, denies D void, non-min 3D = GF decent 6+C 3M = 3/4M slam trial --------------------------- 1H-2S Continuations --------------------------- 2N = relay for shortness, 15+ 3C = 7-8(-), no shortness, NF 3D/M = 7-9, shortness, F to 3N/4C 3N = 8(+)-9, no shortness, NF 3C = to play 3D/M = GF, 17+, 5+C-4suit --------------------------- 1H-2N Continuations --------------------------- 3C = s/o, 11-13 6+C 3D/M = 14+, GF, 5+C-4(3)+suit 4C = 18+, decent 6+C, no shortness, slam interest 4D/M = 16+, decent 6+C, autosplinter, 1-suiter, slam interest --------------------------- 1H-3N Continuations --------------------------- 4C = slammish, 16+, 6+C 1-suiter, slam interest 4D = 5+C-4D, 16+, slam interest 4M = 5+C-4M, 17+, slam interest THIRD SEAT MODIFICATIONS Opening may be light as 9 HCP all same, except immediate splinters are voids, and P-1H-1S-2C-2D-2H/2S/2N/3C, and now responer's bids nat NF ---------------------------- Handling Direct Interference ---------------------------- (X = [takeout/whatever]) Pass = 0-6 1S = invite raise, 4+C, OR GF raise bad for slam XX = 10+, denies 4+C, not too offensive (opponents cannot play undoubled) 1N = simple raise, 6-9, 4+C 2C = GF raise, 4+C, suit-oriented 2D = 5+H, 7+ HCP, usually denies 3+C 2H = 5+S, 7+ HCP, usually denies 3+C 2S = invite, 5+S-4+C 2N = GF raise, 4+C, NT-oriented 3C = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 3D/3H = 5+suit, 4+C, invite 3S = splinter raise 3N = pree/semipree C raise, with 1.5+ defensive tricks (forcing pass) 4C = pree/semipree raise, less than 1.5+ defensive tricks 4D = 5+m-5+ minors, preparing for competition 4H = splinter raise (1S) X = 7+ bal, does not promise stopper (or 12+ 5+D no stopper and bad for declaring NT) 1N = 7+, 5+D, denies 5+H, usually denies 4+C 2C = 6-9, 4C 2D = 7+, 5+H 2H = limit+ raise, 10+, 4+C 2S = mixed raise, 7-9, 5(4)+C, offensive 2N = 11-12 bal, NT-oriented, invite 3C = pree raise, 0-6, 4+C 3D/H = 10-11, 6+D/H, invite 3S/4D = splinter, 4+C 3N = 12(+)-15 bal, NT-oriented 4C = pree, 0-6, 5+C, distributional 4H = 7+H, pree/to play (1N [ = natural]) X = 10+ any 2C = to play 2D/H/S = to play, longer suit can be weaker 2N = distributional invite, 4+C 3C = pree 3NS = nat, distributional invite, 6+crds (1N [ = artificial]) X = 10+ no fit, not great distribution 2NS = nat, 7-9, 5+crds, NF 2 cue = GF raise 2N = distributional invite, 4+C 3 cue = splinter 3C/4C = pree 3NS = nat invite, 6+crds 4 cue = exclusion RKC C (2C [ = 2-suiter ] X = 10+, no fit 2NS = 7-10, 5+crds, NF 2cue = invit raise, 4+C (if 2 cues, lower = limit, higher = GF) 2N = GF raise, 4+C (if 2 cues available, this is a mixed raise) 3C = competitive, 7-9, 4+C (if 2 cues available, this is a 0-6 raise) 3cue = splinter raise 3NS = nat, 6+crds, GF 3N = pree/semipree C raise, promises 1.5+ defensive tricks (forcing pass) 4C = pree/semipree C raise, denies 1.5+ defensive tricks (2D) X = 9+, takeout, includes some other hands (5+M 11+: later 2M F1, 3M F to game/4m), denies fit 2M = 7-10, 5+crds, NF 2N = invit raise, or GF raise bad for slam 3C = competitive, 6-9 3D = GF raise, distributional or slam interest 3M = invite, 6+crds 3N = to play 4C = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 4D = splinter C raise 4M = splinter C raise (2H [natural]) X = 9+, takeout, includes some other hands (5+S GF: later 3S F to game/4m), denies fit 2S = 7-10, 5+crds, NF 2N = invit raise, or GF raise bad for slam 3C = competitive, 6-9 3D = 5+S, 11+, F1 3H = GF raise, distributional or slam interest 3S = invite, 6+crds 3N = to play 4C = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 4D/H/S = splinter, weak (2S) X = 9+, takeout, no fit 2N = invit raise, or GF raise bad for slam 3C = competitive, 6-9 3D = 5+H, 10+, F1 3H = invite, 6+crds 3S = GF raise, distributional or slam interest 3N = to play 4C = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 4D/4H/4S = splinter raise (2N [ = 2 suiter]) X = 10+ no fit (or GF raise if only 1 known enemy suit to cue) 3C = competitive, 6-9, 4+C 3cue (lower/only) = invit raise 3cue (higher) = GF raise 3 new suit = nat, invite 4C = pree, 4+C, vul-dependent (3D/M) X = 10+, 2+crds, vul determines penalty interest 3M/4D new suit = GF, 5+crds 4cue = slam interest C raise 4M = to play 4N = RKC C (4D/M) X = 75% penalty 4M new suit = to play 4N = RKC C 5C = to play 5cue = cue raise, grand slam interest (5y) X = pen 5N = RKC C without steps for the Queen ///////////////////////////////// 1S Opening / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** 1N = negative or natural a) 0-5 any b) VUL: 6-10(-) without 4+D or 6+M c) NV: 6-9(-) without 4+D or 6+M 2C = invit+ relay, F1 a) 10+ 3+D b) 10+ 5+M c) 12+ any d) NV: may be as light as 9(+) 2D = 5-9 6+M or 9-11 6+C, suggests less than 3D, semiforcing 2H = 6-9, 5(6)H some side suit or 3(2)+D, NF 2S = 6-9, 5(6)S, able to play in a side minor (4+C/3[2]+D), NF 2N = invit a) VUL: 10-11, bal, denies 4+D b) NV: 9(+)-11(-), bal 3C = D raise, pree (0-6) 4+D OR GF (12-15) 4+D with side shortness 3D = 7-9, 4+D, denies 6(5)+M 3M = invite, 10-11, 6+M 3N = to play, 13-15, bal, good for declaring NT 4C = 12-15, void splinter, 4+D, GF 4D = pree, 5+D, 0-6 --------------------------- 1S-1N Continuations --------------------------- 2C = D rebid, or some strong options, semiforcing a) 11-17, 6+D, no 4M b) 18, 5D-332 c) 18-19, 3343 d) 17-21, 5+D-4C e) NV: (b) may be as light as 17 2D = 0-9(-), to play opposite normal D rebid Pass = normal D rebid 2H = 18, 5332 with 3H (non-jump response = NF) 2S = 18, 5332 with 2H (non-jump response = NF) 2N = 18-19, 3343 (non-jump response = NF) 3C = 17-21, 5+D-4C 3D = 16(+)-17, 6+D 1-suiter 2M = 0-4, 6+M 2N = 9-10(-), NT-oriented 3C = 7-8, 6+C, denies 3+D 3D = 7-9 3D, or 9-10(-) 2D 2D = C rebid, 11-16 5+D-4+C, NF 2N = good C raise, 8-10(-), 4+C, F1 2M = invite reverse, 17-21, 5+D-4M 2N = GF, 22+, 5+D 3C = Stayman, or D fit without side 5+ suit and non-minimum 3D = no 4M, side shortness and/or slam interest 3M = 4M 3N = no 4M, no side shortness or slam interest 3D = 5+C, no 4+M, F 3C = invite, 17-21, 5+D-5+C (3M = nat F to 3N/4m, 3D = to play, 4m = inv, 4M = cue setting C until further notice) 3D = invite, 18-21, 6+D 1-suiter 3M = auto-splinter, 20+, 6+D to at least 3 honors, 1-suiter, F to 3N/4D (4D = to play, else GF) 4C = auto-splinter, GF, 6+D to at least 3 honors, 1-suiter --------------------------- 1S-2C Continuations --------------------------- 2D = 17+ (nat cont's) 2H = 3H, avg hand a) 11-16, 5+D-3H b) VUL: 12(+)-14 3343 c) NV: 14-16 (BPH 15-16) 3343 or 5D-332 2S = NF nat 2N = GF relay 3C = 11-13, 6+D-3H 1-suiter (3D = asks short: l/h/n) 3D = 11-14, 3352/2353/3343 (3H = asks doub: l/3343/h) 3H = 11-13, 1354/0364/0355 3S = 14-16, 1354/0364/0355 3N = 14-16, 2362 3D = NF 3H = invite else = GF 2S = 11-16, 5+D-3S, denies 3H (3D = NF, 3S = invit, else GF) 2N = GF relay 3C = 11-13, 6+D-3S 1-suiter (3D = asks short: l/h/n) 3D = 11-14, 3253 3H = 11-13, 3154/3064/3055 3S = 14-16, 3154/3064/3055 3N = 14-16 3262 2N = 14-16, 5+D-4+C no 3M, or 6+D no 3M or 4+C; GF 3C = relay 3D = 6+D, denies 5+C (3H = asks short: 3S = 6+D-4C short H, 3N = 2263/2272, 4C = 6+D-4+C short S) 3M = 5+D-5+C, short M 3N = 2254 3C = 11-13, 5+D-4+C, no 3M (3D = NF, 3M = nat GF) 3D = 11-13, 6+D, no 3M, may have 4 bad C 3M/N = 14-16, short M/C, 6+D 1-suiter, GF --------------------------- 1S-2D Continuations --------------------------- 2H = p/c, no game interest for H Pass/2S = H/S 3C = 9-11 6+C suggests less than 3D, invite 2S = p/c, invit+ for H but no interest in S Pass = S 2N = 5-7(-), 6+H, does not want to declare 3C = 9-11 6+C suggests less than 3D, invite 3D = 7-9, 6+H, does not want to declare 2N = strong relay, asks which suit 3C = 9-11, 6+C, suggests less than 3D, GF 3D = 5-7(-), 6+H, semiforcing (3H = to play) 3H = 5-7(-), 6+S, F1 (3S = to play) 3S = 7-9, 6+H, GF 3N = 7-9, 6+S, GF 3C = GF nat, 18+, 5+D-5+C 3D = GF nat, 18+, 6+D, denies 5+C 3M = GF reverse, 19+, 5+D-4M, short in other major (4C = 9-11 6+C, 4D = art slammish M raise) --------------------------- 1S-2H Continuations --------------------------- 2S = p/c, short H, 3S, short H, 11-16 2N = strong relay, asks suit/strength, 16(+)+ 3C = 6-7, 4+C, denies 3+D, NF (3D/H = to play, else = GF) 3D = 6-7, 3(2)+D, NF (4D = inv, else = GF) 3H = 6-9, 4S without 3+D, OR 6-7 5+S-5+H, NF (3S/4D = NF, else GF) 3S = 8-9, 4+C, denies 3+D, GF (4D = either art slamtry H, or self-sufficient D [to be revealed]) 3N = 8-9, 3(2)+D, GF 4m = 8-9, 5+S-5+H, short m, GF 3C = 11-16, 5+D-4+C, short H, denies 3S 3D = to play 3H = inv, 15-16 3H 3S/4C = splinter for H, slam interest, 3-4H --------------------------- 1S-2S Continuations --------------------------- 2N = strong relay, asks suit/strength, 16(+)+ 3C = 6-7, 4+C, denies 3+D, NF (3D/3S = to play, else GF) 3D = 6-7, 3(2)+D, NF (4D = inv, else = GF) 3H = 8-9, 4+C, denies 3+D, GF 3S = 8-9, 3(2)+D, GF 3C = p/c, short S, 11-16, 3+C 3D = to play 3H = GF reverse, 5+D-4H, denies 3+S 3S = invit, 15-16, 3S --------------------------- 1S-2N Continuations --------------------------- 3C = 13+, 5+D-4+C, F1 3D = 11-13, 6+D, NF 3M = GF seminatural, 14+, 5+D-4(3)M 4C/M = GF auto-splinter, 16+, decent 6+D, slam interest, 16+ 4D = 18+, 1-suiter, no shortness, decent 6+D, slam interest --------------------------- 1S-3C Continuations --------------------------- 3D = forced Pass = pree 3M = 12-15, short M, 4+D 3N = 12-15, sing. C, 4+D, ok for 3N 4C = 12-15, sing. C, 4+D, too suit-oriented for 3N --------------------------- 1S-3N Continuations --------------------------- 4C = 5+D-4+C, 16+, slam interest 4D = 6+D 1-suiter, 16+, slam interest 4M = nat reverse, 17+, 5+D-4M, slam interest THIRD SEAT MODIFICATIONS: Opening could be as light as 9 P-1S-2C-2H/2S/2N/3C and now responder's bids nat NF 1S-3C if max is a void splinter ---------------------------- Handling Direct Interference ---------------------------- (X = [takeout/whatever]) Pass = 0-6 XX = 10+, denies 4+D, not too offensive (opponents cannot play undoubled) 1N = invit D raise, or GF but bad for slam 2C = simple raise, 6-9, 4+D 2D = GF raise, 4+D, suit-oriented 2M = 7-10, 5+crds, NF 2N = GF raise, 4+D, NT-oriented 3C = invite, 5+C-4+D 3D = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 3M = 5+suit, 4+C, invite 3N = pree/semipree D raise, with 1.5+ defensive tricks (forcing pass) 4C = 5+ 5+ minors, preparing for competition 4D = pree/semipree raise, less than 1.5+ defensive tricks 4M = splinter raise (1N [ = natural]) X = 10+ any 2D = to play 2C/H/S = to play, longer suit can be weaker 2N = distributional invite, 4+D 3D = pree 3NS = nat, distributional invite, 6+crds (1N [ = artificial]) X = 10+ no fit, not great distribution 2NS = nat, 7-9, 5+crds, NF 2 cue = GF raise 2N = distributional invite, 4+D 3 cue = splinter 3D/4D = pree 3NS = nat invite, 6+crds 4 cue = exclusion RKC D (2C) X = 9+, takeout, includes some other hands (5+M 11+: later 2M F1, 3M F to game/4m), usually denies 3+D 2D = simple raise, 6-9, 3+D 2M = 7-10, 5+crds, NF 2N = invit raise, or GF raise bad for slam 3C = GF raise, distributional or slam interest 3D = competitive, 6-9 3M = invite, 6+crds 3N = to play 4C = splinter D raise 4D = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 4M = splinter D raise (2D [ = 2-suiter ] X = 10+, no fit 2NS = 7-10, 5+crds, NF 2cue = invit raise, 4+D (if 2 cues, lower = limit, higher = GF) 2N = 10+, 5+C (unless they show C, in which case this is the "higher cue") 3C = GF raise, 4+D (if 2 cues available, this is a mixed raise) 3D = competitive, 7-9, 4+C (if 2 cues available, this is a 0-6 raise) 3cue = splinter raise 3NS = nat, 6+crds, GF 3N = pree/semipree D raise, promises 1.5+ defensive tricks (forcing pass) 4C = (if not cue) 5+C-4+D, preparing for competition 4D = pree/semipree C raise, denies 1.5+ defensive tricks (2H) X = 9+, takeout, includes some other hands (5+M 11+: later 2M F1, 3M F to game/4m), usually denies 3+D 2S = 7-10, 5+crds, NF 2N = 5+S, 11+, F1 3C = invit raise, or GF but bad for slam, 4+D 3D = competitive, 6-9 3H = GF raise, distributional or slammish 3S = invite, 6+crds 3N = to play 4C = 5+C-4+D, prepares for competition, or mb slammish 4D = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 4H = splinter D raise 4S = to play (2S [natural]) X = 9+, takeout, includes some other hands (5+H 11+: 3H F to game/4m), usually denies 3+D 2N = 5+H, 11+, F1 3C = invit raise, or GF but bad for slam, 4+D 3D = competitive, 6-9 3H = invite, 6+crds 3S = GF raise, distributional or slammish 3N = to play 4C = 5+C-4+D, prepares for competition, or mb slammish 4D = pree, 4+crds, vul-dependent 4H = to play 4S = splinter D raise (2N [ = 2 suiter]) X = 10+ no fit (or GF raise if only 1 known enemy suit to cue) 3D = competitive, 6-9, 4+D 3cue (lower/only) = invit raise 3cue (higher) = GF raise 3 new suit = nat, invite 4D = pree, 4+D, vul-dependent (3C/M) X = 10+, 2+crds, vul determines penalty interest 3D = to play, not weak 3M/4C new suit = GF, 5+crds 4cue = slam interest D raise 4M = to play 4N = RKC D (4C/M) X = 75% penalty 4D = to play 4M new suit = to play 4N = RKC D 5D = to play 5cue = cue raise, grand slam interest (5y) X = pen 5N = RKC D without steps for the Queen ///////////////////////////////// Strong 1N Opening (VUL) / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** 2C = extended Stayman (may be 0+ HCP 4-4 M's or 4M-5+m, or 6+C; also mb 5S invite, or any 10+) 2D = transfer, 5+H, or 4H at least invite (without 4S) no slam interest 2H = transfer, 5+S, or 4S at least invite (without 4H) no slam interest 2S = a) 5+-4+ minors any strength, b) invite 6+C, c) GF 6+D without short C 2N = invite, no 4M 3C = transfer, D signoff or GF 6+C without short D 3D = nat invite, 6+crds 3H = GF, 6+C, short D 3S = GF, 6+D, short C 4m = South African transfer, denies slam interest or 4oM (relay = rather pd play it) 4M = to play, wants to declare --------------------------- 1N-2C Continuations --------------------------- 2D = no M 2H = weak, 4+ 4+ majors, or 4H-5C that wants to try to play 2H Pass/2S = pref for H/S 2N = 22(54) 3m = 22(3om-6m) 2S = invite: 5S or 4S-4/5H Pass = min, S pref 2N = min, H/NT pref (3H = 5H to play) 3m = min, decent 6m, invite 3H = max, 3H, wants to play 4H opposite 5, GF (3S = 5S) 3S = max, 3S, wants to play 4S opposite 5, GF 3N = max, to play even opposite 5M 2N = s/o C (6+crds or 5C-4M), OR GF 5+m-4M unbal (without 4om) 3C = forced Pass = C s/o 3D = 5+D GF, 4M, unbal, denies 4C 3H = relay (3S = short C, 3N = 9-13 short H, 4C = short S, 4D = 14+ short H) 3H/S = 5+C GF, short D/H, denies 4D 3N = 9-13, 5+C-4H, short S, denies 4D 4C = 14+, 5+C-4H, short S, denies 4D 3C = GF re-Stayman 3D = 5/6m (3H asks: 3S = 5+C, 3N = 5+D) 3H = 3244 3S = 2344 3N = 4m333 3D = GF, 5+-4+ M's 3H = 3H, may have 3S (3S = 5+S, 3N = 4522 F, 4m = splinter for H) 3S = 3S, denies 3H (3N = 5H-4S NF, 4m = splinter for S) 3M = GF, 3-suiter short M 2H = 4+H, denies 4S 2S = invite, 5S 2N = C signoff, or GF 4S-5+m unbal, or 10-15 with 4H bal and c.o.g. 3C = forced Pass = C signoff (6+crds, or 4S-5+C) 3D = 5+D-4S unbal GF (3H asks: 3S 5+D short C, 3N 12-14 5+D short H, 4C 15+ 5+D short H) 3H = 5+C-4S unbal GF, short D 3S = 12+, 5+C-4S unbal GF, short H 3N = 4H, c.o.g. 3C = GF re-Stayman 3D = 4D (3H asks l/h doub) 3H = 3433 or 5H-332 (3S = 3+H relay: 3N = 3433, 4m = 5H cue, 4H = 5H no m cue) 3S = 3424 3N = 2434 3D = 5+D-4S weak, s/o 3H = inv 2S = 4+S, denies 4H 2N = C signoff, or GF 4H-5+m unbal, or 10-15 with 4S bal and c.o.g. 3C = forced Pass = C signoff (6+crds, or 4H-5+C) 3D = 5+D-4H GF (3H asks: 3S = 5+D short C, 3N = 12-14 5+D short S, 4C = 15+ 5+D short S) 3H = GF 5+C-4H, short D 3S = 12+, 5+C-4H, short S 3N = 4S, c.o.g., quite bal 3C = GF re-Stayman 3D = 4D (3H = asks l/h doub) 3H = 4333 or 5S-332 (3S = 3+S relay: 3N = 4333, 4m/H = 5S cue, 4S = 5S no cue) 3S = 4324 3N = 4234 3D = s/o, 5+D-4H weak 3H = 4S, short H, slam interest 3S = invite 2N/3C = 4S-4H min/max 3C = C signoff 3D/H = transfer to M fit, any strength (then NS = splinter slamtry, 3N = bal F slamtry) --------------------------- 1N-2D Continuations --------------------------- 2H = most hands 2S = art, game invite with 5+H, OR slamtry 6+H bal 2N = 4H, invite, denies 4S (3m = good 5 or any 6crds [min, to play]) 3m = GF, 5+H-4+m, does not promise slam interest 3H = GF 4H no slam interest 3S/4m = auto-splinter 2S = max, 4+H 2N = max, good 3H 3H = 15-16(-), decent 4+H, offensive hand --------------------------- 1N-2H Continuations --------------------------- 2S = most hands 2N = invite, 4S, denies 4H (3m = good 5 or any 6crds [min, to play]) 3m = GF, 5+S-4+m, does not promise slam interest 3H = art, 6+S, 13+ HCP, no shortness, slamtry OR 6+S invit 3S = GF 4S no slam interest 4m/H = auto-splinter 2N = max, good 3S 3C = max, 4+S 3S = 15-16(-), decent 4+S, offensive hand --------------------------- 1N-2S Continuations --------------------------- 2N = no extras, 3+D, D longer or equal to C, semiforcing 3C = s/o with C invite 3D = s/o with both minors 3M = short M, 5+-4+ minors or 6+D 3N = mild slam invite, 22(54) or 6+D bal 4D = serious slamtry 6+D or 2254 3C = 3+C, longer than D, NF 3D = GF, 6+D (3M = values suggesting interest if pd short oM) 3M = short M, 5+-4+ minors or 6+C 4C = 2245 slamtry 3D = extras, 3+D, D longer or equal to C, NF 3M = short M, 5+-4+ minors or 6+D 4D = serious slamtry, 6+D or 2254 --------------------------- 1N-3C Continuations --------------------------- 3D = forced Pass = D s/o 3M = GF, 6+C, short M 3N = mild slam invite, 6+C bal, 12-13 4C = serious slam invite, 6+C bal, 14+ MODIFICATIONS FOR PASSED HAND: All the same, but major transfer followed by 3m is nat F1. -------------------------- Handling Interference: --------------------------- 1. Artificial Double A. Redouble and continuations a. XX = 8+ HCP b. opponents cannot play undoubled (forcing pass) B. 2-level suits are transfers a. wide-range of strength, but not a XX, freak, or penalty-seek b. over a 2D/2H transfer, continuations are systems on but a new suit is F1 (may have both majors) c. over a 2C transfer, NS by responder is F1 d. over a 2S transfer, opener bids 2N with min and 3C with max, and continuations are as normal (3D/M = shortness) C. 2N shows 5+4+ minors, weak or GF (later 3M = shortness GF) D. 3-level suits are nat preemptive E. Higher bids are normal systems on E.g. 1N-(X)-XX-(2C); P-(2H)-3D = 8-9(-), 5+D NF 1N-(X)-XX-(2D); P-(P)-2S = 8+, 4+S, F1 1N-(X)-XX-(2H); P-(P)-X-(P; 3C = 16-17, 5/6C, GF 1N-(X)-XX-(2H); P-(2S)-P-(P); X-(P)-3D = 9+, 5+D, GF 1N-(X)-2C = 0+, 5+D 1N-(X)-2D-2H-2S = 8+, 5+H-4S, F1 1N-(X)-4H = 8-10, 6+H 2. Penalty double A. Pass/2C are the same as over double of our weak NT, except Pass, which asks partner to pass 100%. 2D and higher are the same as over the artificial double above. e.g. 1N-(X)-XX-(P); 2C = forced 1N-(X)-2H = 0+, 5+S 3. Natural 2-level overcall A. Direct double is negative, 5(+)+ HCP, however responder's double is penalty if 4th seat has balanced over 1N. Later new suits by responder are NF. B. New suit: a. 2-level NS is nat NF, opener can continue only with maximum and fit b. 2N = invit+ transfer over (2m), Lebensohl over (2M) c. 3-level NS (even a jump) except 3S is a transfer (transfer to their suit shows the next higher suit) with at least invite strength, xfer to a minor denying other major if overcall was (2M) d. 3S over 2m shows 4H-5+om, GF, while over 2H is a transfer to clubs (over 2S, 3H is this transfer) forcing to 3N or 4m e. 4m = 6+M slam interest - if the major is impossible, it shows shortness in oM (their suit) f. 4M = to play, no slam interest, wants to declare g. 3cue = asks stopper h. after a transfer, continuations follow general principles, just as after 1C-(2S), e.g. C. Lebensohl a. weak hand with any suit 6(5)+ unbiddable at the 2-level b. over (2M), a GF Stayman hand c. opener must bid 3C, unless he has a hand that can try for game opposite a C signoff d. over 3C by opener, responder's cue shows 4oM without a stopper, and 3N 4oM with stopper; 4m shows 5+m + 4oM (over 2H overcall this shows slam interest, else use 3S); other bids are nat e.g. 1N-(2C)-X = neg 1N-(2D)-X-2S-3C = 5(+)-8, 5+C-4H NF 1N-(P)-P-(2D); P-(P)-X = penalty 1N-(2D)-2S = 3-7, 5+S 1N-(2H)-3C = 8+, 5+D, denies 4S, F1 1N-(2C)-3D = 8+, 5+H, F1 1N-(2D)-2N = 8+, 5+C, F1 1N-(2D)-3S = 9+, 5+C-4H, GF 1N-(2S)-3H = 8(+)+ 5+C, F to 3N/4C 1N-(2S)-4C = 6+H, slam interest, denies short S (else 4D) 1N-(2H)-4C = 6+S, slam interest, short H 1N-(2C)-4H = 6+H, no slam interest 1N-(2H)-2N-3C- Pass/3D = 0-6, 6+m 3H = 9+, 4S, no H stopper or 5+m 3S = 4S-5+m, no slam interest, GF (slam uses 4m) 3N = 9-14, 4S, H stopper 4m = 5+m-4S, slam interest 1N-(2S)-3S = asks stopper, denies H 4. Natural 3+-level overcall A. Double is 9+ without shortness in their suit (at 4-level it is 90% penalty). Vulnerability determines how penalty it is. B. General rules: a. new suit is GF, except 3D, which is forcing to 3N/4D b. no Texas C. Cue-bid shows slam interest with various types of hands. D. 4N shows 5+ 5+ minors over a 3M overcall, but is quant over a 3m overcall. e.g. 1N-(3S)-X = optional at favorable 1N-(3H)-3S = 8+, 5+S, GF 1N-(3C)-4D = 6+D, slammish 1N-(3D)-4H = 8-11, 6+H 1N-(3H)-4H-4N = nat, denies 4S 1N-(3D)-4N = quant 1N-(3S)-4N = 5+ 5+ minors 5. Double of an artificial overcall is cards, willing to sit for partner's penalty doube, forcing to 2N. The cue of an opponent's suit and 2N are the same as over a natural overcall. 6. Double by opener when partner passed at first opportunity: A. At the 2-level a. double is takeout if the suit is natural or p/c B. At the 3-level, double is takeout with a very good hand (and higher is penalty) 7. Over an enemy double of 1N-3N, redoubles shows desire not to play 3N, while pass shows willingness or maybe just no good alternative contract. This applies to both hands. ///////////////////////////////// Weak 1N Opening (NV) / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses same as Strong NT, but range-adjusted - competitive Notes, however, are different ************************************************************************************** Handling Interference: Same as over strong NT, with the following 2 situations different: (X = penalty) Pass = wants to play X'd, or maybe just opposite a maximum (P) Pass = max XX = min (P) 2m = to play, scrambling style, OR short m (will SOS XX to rescramble) (X) XX = doubleton, 2H = 4-4 majors 2H = 4-4 majors 2H = usually 4H-3/4S (correctable) 2S = to play, 5+S (2suit) P = NF (P) X = 10+, optional, sets forcing pass if they run 2NS = nat NF, but opener can continue with max and fit 3lower = nat invite, NF 3higher = nat GF X = penalty, strength in their suit XX = forces 2C if 4th seat passes a) 5+C any strength b) weak 4C, no side 5+suit c) weak 4+D-4+M, equal length (or good 4, bad 5) (P) 2C = forced (P) P = C signoff, mb 4crds (if 4th seat X's, op can XX SOS or bid a 5red) 2D = 4+D-4+M 2M = 4M-5+C, F1 2N/3C = nat invite, club-based 3D = 4D-5+C, GF 3M = auto-splinter for C (X) XX = SOS, 4+D-4+S 2D = 4+D-4+H (2D/2M) P (P) X = optional, invit+ with 5+C, no stopper 2M = 4M-5+C, competitive/invite but NF 3C = to play 3red lower = nat F1 with 5+C 3M higher = nat GF with 5+C X = takeout, max, good distr 2C = 5+D any strength, OR weak 4+ 4+ majors (P) 2D = forced (P) Pass = D signoff 2H = 4+ 4+ majors, weak 2S/3C = 4S/C, 5+D, F1 2N/3D = nat, invite, D-based 3H = 4H-5+D GF 3S = autosplinter for D (X) XX = SOS, 5+S-4+H but S longer than H 2H = 4+H-4+S, H at least as long as S else = as no X (2M/3C) Pass (Pass) X = takeout, max, good distribution X = optional, invit+, 5+D 2S = 4S-5+D, NF, but opener can continue with max 3D = to play 3lower NS = 4suit-5+D, F1 3S jump = 4S-5+D, GF (X) Pass = doubleton D (continue as above) 2D = 3+D (continue as above) 2H+ = see strong NT-(takeout X) (3m [nat]) 3y = nat invite ///////////////////////////////// 2C Opening / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** 2D = asks longer M, or some invite 2M = to play, 3+crds (3m = freaky good hand, 5+M, short m, invite) 2N = art invite with 4+crds in a M 3C = nat invite, 6+C, denies 3+M 3D = to play, 6+D, at most invite, denies 3+M (3N/4D = D help, max) 3M = pree, 4+crds 4C = GF but never weak, equal length 4+ 4+ M's, asks to transfer to longer/better one in order to declare 4D = GF with strength and equal length M's, wants pd to declare: OR pree with 4+ 4+ majors (vul-dependent) 4M = to play, any strength but no slam, 4+crds --------------------------- 2C-2D Continuations --------------------------- 2H = 7-10, 5+H-4+S, H not shorter than S (3H = invite, else nat GF) 2S = GF relay 2N = 5+-5+ (3C = rel: l/h short) 3C = 6-8, 6+H-4S (3D = relay with 6-4 scheme) 3D = 4531/4540 3H = 4513/4504 3S = 4522 2S = 7-10, 5+S-4H, S longer than H (2N = GF relay, 3S = invite, else nat GF) 2N = GF relay 3C = 6-8, 6+S-4/5H (3D = relay with 6-4 scheme) 3D = 5431/5440 3H = 5413/5404 3S = 5422 2N = 6-10, 6H-6S (3M = NF, else GF) 3C = 8-10, 6+H-5+S, H longer (3D = art sets H GF, 3H = to play, else GF) 3D = 8-10, 6+S-5+H, S longer (3S = to play, else GF) 3M = 9-10, 6+M-4oM (any bid = GF) --------------------------- 2C-2N Continuations --------------------------- 3m = short m, would accept some invite 3H = minimum, (54)22, would not accept H invite 3S = 4522, would accept only a H invite 3N = accepts any invite (re places contract, or bids 4C/D to ask for transfer/bid longer/better M) --------------------------- Handling Interference --------------------------- 1. Over double A. Redouble and continuations. a. Pass shows clubs and no M fit (to play) b. XX has the same meaning as the 2D relay c. 2D is natural, NF, no M fit d. other bids are the same as if no double 2. An overcall A. Double a. Double of 2D has the same meaning as the 2D relay b. Double of 3/4D asks for the longer major c. All other doubles are penalty. B. Bidding a suit a. over a natural 2M overcall, 3m is natural invite, and 2N shows 5+ 5+ minors b. over a 3 overcall, 3D asks for longer major c. 4m has the same meaning as if no overcall d. a jump to 3M is pree, and without a jump it is to play C. Later bids by opener a. Double of a major is penalty, and of 2/3/4m is takeout, except over 2D it promises defensive values b. 2N shows 6+-5+ shape e.g. 2C-(3D)-X = asks longer M 2C-(4C)-4D = asks longer M 2C-(2D)-P-X = takeout with defensive strength 2C-(2D)-P-2N = 6+-5+ majors ///////////////////////////////// 2D Opening / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** 2H = p/c, may have S interest or 6+H invite (when pd has S), if cannot GF opposite 22 bal bid 2H even if short S 2S = p/c, H longer than S, may have game interest for H, but not for S; can GF opposite 22 bal 2N = 14+ relay, asks suit/strength 3m = GF nat, 16+, usu. 6+crds (4M = splinter for m, F) 3H = pree p/c, 3+ 3+ majors 3S = nat invite, 6+ decent S 4C = not weak, 3+ 3+ majors, asks opener to transfer to major 4D = s/o in 4H, 7+H (any strength) 4H = p/c, any strength, 3+ 3+ majors 4S = s/o in 4S, 7+S --------------------------- 2D-2H Continuations --------------------------- Pass = H 2S = 6S 3H = 6+ decent H, invite NF 3S = invite? 2N = 22-23 bal, no 4M (see scheme for strong 2N when known M or no M) 3C = 24+ bal, GF, no 4M 3S = transfer to 3N, no 5M - to play or 5+D slam interest 3N = forced (Pass = to play, 4N = quant, 4D = 5+D bal slammish, 4C/M = 5+D splinter slammish) 3N = minor suit stayman, 4+ 4+ minors, 5+ HCP, F1, slam interest (4N = negative) 3D/3H/4C+ = all just like 2D-2H-2N --------------------------- 2D-2S Continuations --------------------------- Pass = S 2N = 22+ bal, no 4M, GF (see scheme for 2N structure when M known or no M) 3C = 9-10, 6+H 3D = 7-8 6+H or 8(+)-10 5H 3H = 4-6 6+H or 6-8 5H --------------------------- 2D-2N Continuations --------------------------- 3C = 4-7 6+M or 6-8 5M 3D = relay, GF opposite 6+S (3H = 6-8 5S, 3S = 6-8 5H, 3N = 4-7 6+H, 4C = 4-7 6+S) later 4m by relayer = cue for M 3H = p/c, may have interest opposite S 3S = F 3D = 8-10 6+H (3S = F) 3H = 8-10 6+S 3S = 8(+)-10 5H (4m = cue for H) 3N = 8(+)-10 5S (4m = cue for S) 4N = 22+ bal, no M, forcing to slam 5C...5S = same as 3C...3S after 2D-2S-2N --------------------------- Handling Interference --------------------------- 1. Double A. Pass shows 6(5)+D and shortness in partner's guessed suit, suggesting to play 2D. B. Redouble a. 0+, shortness in partner's guessed suit, wants to play in the other major b. 0+, 5+M-5+C, usually void in partner's guessedsuit, wants to play in his own suit c. opener later rebids his own suit if he really likes it, otherwise bids partner's supposed major C. 3m = natural, NF D. other bids are normal systems on 2. Overcall A. 2M Overcall a. X = 10+, p/c, if the overcall is 2S then opener continues as if responder had bid 2S b. other major is p/c c. 3m = nat, F1, does not deny a fit d. 4m = fit-showing jump for oM e. 3 cue = artificial ask for stopper, and 2N is same as no competition B. 3m Overcall a. X of 3C = penalty b. X of 3D (or 3D over 3C) = invit raise for both majors c. 3M = p/c d. 4-level responses are same as no interference C. 3M overcall a. X = penalty b. other major = p/c c. 4m = fit-showing non-jump or cue-bid, or even own suit d. 4cue = cue bid, with fit for other major e. other bids are natural D. Opener's bids in competition (other than p/c correction) a. Double shows 6(5)+M (over 2M, in their suit) with extra strength and distribution, OR 22+ bal without a 4M - with the 22+ variant, opener may only double or bid NT ///////////////////////////////// 2H/2S Openings / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** 2S = p/c 2N = strong ask for suit/strength 3C = C and indicated M, 6-8(-) (3 of anchor M = to play, NS = cue for anchor M [or nat poss if rebid]) 3D = D and indicated M, 6-8(-) (3 of anchor M = to play, NS = cue for anchor M [or nat poss if rebid]) ( and 4m raise = sets m with slam interest) 3H = H and indicated m, 8(+)-10 (conts as above) 3S = S and indicated m, 8(+)-10 (conts as above) 3y/4y = p/c (OR if then rebids the suit, is to play), not interested in min/max re p/c to cheapest of his suits - 3N indicates extra length if it is convenient --------------------------- Handling Interference --------------------------- 1. Double A. Meanings of Pass and continuations a. Pass accepts the contract if partner has the suit bid; pass may be strong b. if opener does not have length in the suit opened, with equal length he runs to his next suit; if the non-cheapest suit is longer he redoubles, and when the cheapest suit is longer, he bids it if below 2N, and bids 2N if it is above 2N. c. in all further bidding, doubles are penalty B. XX = penalty, 15+ and 5+crds in the opened suit C. Other bids are the same as if no interference e.g. 2S-(X)-P-(P); 2N = 6+D-5H (closest suit longer) 2H-(X)-P-(P); XX = 6+D-5S (further suit is longer) 2H-(X)-P-(P); 2S = 5+S-5+D, S not shorter than D (else XX) 2H-(X)-P-(2S); X = penalty, max opening 2S-(X)-XX = 15+, 5+S, penalty 2S-(X)-3C = p/c 2. Overcall A. Double a. double is penalty, natural or "sure" partner has the suit B. New suit and continuations a. a new suit is NF, if it is not one of opener's suits it is invite b. if opener has 5+ in the opponent's suit, then over partner's bid it is better to keep bidding in case partner has wrongly guessed which two suits opener had c. if responder knows that opener has length in the opponents' suit but wants to play in his other suit he can bid the cheapest bid that opener could have, as p/c C. Cue-bid at 3-level is asking for a half-stopper D. Later bids a. Double = takeout with extra strength b. All other bids show 6+-5+ distribution E.g. 2H-(2S)-X = penalty - someone has length in the suit 2S-(3C)-3S = 6+S, invite 2S-(3C)-3H = p/c, NF 2H-(3C)-3S-3N = 5+ 5+ H-C 2H-(2S)-3S = asks for half-stopper 2H-(2S)-P-(P); 2N = 6+H-5+C (further suit longer) 2S-(3C)-P-(P); X = takeout, extra strength ///////////////////////////////// 2N Opening / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** 3C = mod. Puppet Stayman, GF, may have 5+S-4H, or slammish with 6+m 1-suiter 3D = transfer, may have 5+S-5+H slammish 3H = transfer, may have 5+S-5+H no slam 3S = minor suit stayman, often serious slam interest if bal, but may be 5-5 c.o.g. 4C = 6+H, slammish, denies 4+S or 5+m 4D = 6+S, slammish, denies 4+H or 5+m 4M = 9-10, 4M, short oM, 3-suiter, NF (4N = neg NF) --------------------------- 2N-3C Continuations --------------------------- 3D = at least one 4M 3H = 4S without 4H, OR 4+S-4H slammish 3S = sets S 3N = 4H 4m = 5+crds slammish (cue = 3+m, 4N = neg, 5N = no fit pick a slam) 4H = mild slamtry H 4S = 10+, 4+S-4H slammish 3S = 4H, denies 4S 3N = no fit (4m = 5+crds slammish [cue = 3+m, 4N = neg, 5N = no fit pick a slam]) 4m = cue for H with extras 4H = min fit 3N = 8+, 6+C 1-suiter, slammish (4N = neg) 4C = 8+, 6+D 1-suiter, slammish (4N = neg) 4D = 5-9, 4+S-4H 3H = no M 3S = 5+S-4H, GF 3N = no slam, promises a M 4m = 9+, 5+crds, slammish (cue = 3+fit, 4N = neg, 5N = no fit pick a slam) 4M = 4441/5m440 short M, no slam interest, or slam-forcing (4N = NF) 3S = 5S 4m = assume cue for S, but may be nat 6+crds, slammish 3N = 5H 4C = 6+C slammish 4D = transfer H, but may be nat 6+D slammish --------------------------- 2N-3D Continuations --------------------------- 3H = normal 4m = 9+, 5+H-4+m slammish (4H/4N = neg, NS = cue assumed for m) 3N = max, 4(3)H, no side source of tricks 4D = retrans or cue 4H = D cue mild slammish but NF 3S/4m = max, 4(3)H, source of tricks, 4-5crds in bid suit, if 4 crds than at least 3 honors 4D = retrans or cue 4H = D cue mild slammish but NF (if 4D available) --------------------------- 2N-3H Continuations --------------------------- 3S = normal 4m = 9+, 5+S-4+m slammish (4S/4N = neg, NS = cue assumed for m) 4H = 5+ 5+ majors, no slam 3N = max, 4(3)S, no side source of tricks 4H = retrans or cue 4S = H cue mild slammish but NF 4m/4H = max, 4(3)H, source of tricks, 4-5 crds in bid suit, if 4crds then at least 3 honors 4H = retrans or cue 4S = H cue mild slammish but NF (if 4H available) --------------------------- 2N-3S Continuations --------------------------- 3N = no 4+m 4m = suggests 5m-4om-2-2 4M = short 4N = no short later 4N = neg, 5m = to play 4C = 4+C 4D = suggests 5D-4C-2-2 4M = short (4N = neg) 4N = no short 4D = 4+D, D longer than C 4M = short 4N = no short ----------------------------- Handling Interference ----------------------------- 1. Double a) xx = penalty, GF or they play doubled b) 3C/D/H/S are transfers (S->C) and may be strong hands c) other bids are as if no double 2. Suit overcall a) same as over 3N and a 3-level overcall (X = cards, bids nat GF) e.g. 2N-(3S)-X: at fav, optional 2N-(3H)-3S = 4+, 5+S, GF 2N-(3C)-D = 6+D, slammish 2N-(3D)-4H = 4-7, 6+H 2N-(3H)-4H-4N = to play, denies 4S 2N-(3D)-4N = quant 2N-(3S)-4N = minors 5-5 2N-(3H)-P-X = 4S, takeout 2N-(4H)-P-X = penalty ///////////////////////////////// 3C/3D Openings in 1/2 seat / ///////////////////////////////// ************************************************************************************** Responses - see following sub-sections for continuations and third seat modifications ************************************************************************************** **Not Vulnerable** 3C-3D = good D raise 3M = short M 3N = no extra honor strength or short M 4C = short D, extras 4N = no shortness, extra honor strength later return to C = NF, raise shortness = good slammish raise, NS = NF 3D-4C = good D raise 4D = no extras 4M/5C = shortness, extras 4N = no shortness, extras later return to D = NF, raise shortness = good slammish raise, NS = NF 3m-3M = nat invit, decent 6+crds **Vulnerable -> opening promises 2 top honors, if KQ then will have side A or K 3C-3D = slammish relay, asks shortness 3M/4D = shortness 3N = no shortness, no side A/K (so AK/AQ in own suit) 4C = no shortness, side A/K continuations assume C is trumps 3D-4C = slammish relay, asks shortness 4D = no shortness, side A/K 4M/5C = shortness 4N = no shortness, no side A/K (so AK/AQ in own suit) continuations assume D is trumps 3m-3M = F to 3N/4m, 5+crds ------------------------ Handling Interference: ------------------------ 1. Double a) XX = penalty b) 4om = concentration with fit, F1 c) new suit = nat, NF (or lead-direct with fit) d) others = as if no double 2. Suit overcall a) X = penalty b) new suit = F1 natural (or lead-direct with fit [4m may be cue-bid]) c) cue of opponent's suit = cue bid slamtry raise e.g. 3D-(X)-3H = 6+H or lead-direct with D fit, NF 3C-(3H)-X = pen 3C-(3H)-3S = 5+S or lead-direct with C fit, F1 3D-(3S)-4C = lead direct with D fit, or cue-bid with slam interest 3C-(3D)-4D = cue-bid D, C fit, slam interest ///////////////////////////////// 3M Openings in 1/2 seat / ///////////////////////////////// ------------------------------ Handling Interference ------------------------------ 1. Double a) XX = penalty b) 3S over 3H = natural NF, or lead-direct with H fit c) 4m = shows location of values with raise, F1 d) 4N = RKC e) 5M raise = pree 2. Suit Overcall a) X = penalty b) 4m = location of values and fit, may be cue-bid or own suit, slammish, F1 c) other new suit = nat NF d) cue-bid = slamtry with cue e) 4N = RKC f) 5M raise jump = pree ///////////////////////////////// 3N Opening in 1/2 seat / ///////////////////////////////// 4C/5C = p/c 4D = slammish relay 4M = short M 4N = no shortness 5m = 7+m, short om NS = cue for opener's suit, except 5C/6C/7C is p/c thereafter 4M = to play ---------------------------------- Handling Interference ----------------------------------- 1. Double a) XX = penalty b) else = as if no double 2. suit overcall a) double = penalty b) 4N = to play c) 5C = p/c ///////////////////////////////// 4m Opening in 1/2 seat / ///////////////////////////////// ----------------------------- Handling Interference ----------------------------- 1) Double a) XX = penalty b) else = as if no double 2) Suit overcall a) X = penalty b) new suit = natural NF, or lead-direct with fit ///////////////////////////////// 4M Opening in 1/2 seat / ///////////////////////////////// 1) Double a) XX = penalty b) new suit = natural c) 4N = RKC d) 5M raise = pree 2) Suit Overcall a) Double = penalty b) new suit = cue-bid, slam try raise c) 4N = RKC ----------------------------- Handling Interference ----------------------------- ************************* ************************* I. General Principles ************************* ************************* 1. En Passant and NT Probe a. Bidding 4th suit or the opponents' suit (asking for stopper). Over an enemy double i) rebidding a previously-bid suit shows extra shape ii) pass = 2+crds without a full stopper, over which XX by partner shows a half-stopper iii) XX = shows stopper, suggests partner declare NT iv) 3N = stopper, better declared by that side b. En Passant shows a stopper in the bid suit, suggesting worry about other suit(s). En Passant only involves suits that cannot be trumps. Over a double of an en passant stopper-showing bid: i) pass = no stopper in the 4th suit, over which XX by partner shows a good stopper, but not to play. ii) XX = shows stopper in 4th suit and worry about the X'd en passant suit (no help) iii) 3N = stopper in 4th suit and no worry about the en passant suit 2. 5-4 Convention a. After showing 5+-4+ distribution, when partner sets the M at the 3-level (and after 1C-2C/N and 1D-2D/N), the next bid is according to the following rules: i) shortness is shown naturally, even in partner's suit ii) bidding NT shows 5422 shape iii) rebidding the 2nd suit shows a decent suit with at least one extra card in length, unless the bidding makes that impossible, in which case it shows 5422 with concentration in the two suits; showing extra distribution is not obligatory and instead shortness may be shown. iv) rebidding trumps shows an exceptionally bad hand e.g. 1C[H]-1H[S]-3C[nat]-3H[sets H]-3S = short S 1H[C]-1N[nat]-2S[rev]-3S[sets S]-3N = 4225 1D[S]-1S[art GF]-2S[H]-3H[sets H]-4D = short D 1C[H]-1H[S]-3D[nat 5-5]-3H[sets H]-4D = 5+H-6+D, suggests 5161 1D[S]-1S[art GF]-2S[H]-3H[sets H]-3S = 5422, conc. in the long suits (6crds impossible) 1D[S]-2C[5+H]-2D[art GF]-3C[D]-3H[sets H]-4H = totally minimum hand 3. Scheme over a strong 2N where a M is known, or known to have no M a. This applies over 1m-neg-2N, 1m-neg-2C-2D-2N, and 2D-2M-2N (not 2N opening since may or may not have M). b. Continuations by responder have the following meanings: i) 3C = 6(5)+D, 0+ HCP, over which bidding a suit after the transfer, even in opener's suit, shows shortness, with 3N as light slam invite and 4D serious slam invite ii) 3D = 3+H over 1C opening, or 5+H over 1D/2D opening - continuations analagous to over a strong 2N opening and transfer response iii) 3H = 3+S over 1D opening, or 5+S over 1C/2D opening - cont's same as over 2N opening and xfer iv) 3S = 4+ 4+ minors, GF, same as after a 2N opening v) 4C = 6+C, no side shortness, slam interest (4N = neg, else cue for C) vi) 4D/M = short D/M, 6+C, slam interest (4N = neg, else cue for C) c. If the bidding is GF, then accepting one of the transfers (3C/3D/3H) shows a fit e.g. 1C[H]-1D[neg]-2C[F]-2D[neg]-2N[GF bal]-3D[3+H]-3H[confirms 5H fit] 4. Forcing Shape Relay a. Over the sequences: 1C-1D-1S/2m/2S 1D-1H-2m/2H 1D-2C-2M 1M-1N-2M 1C-1H-2C-2D-2H .... 2NT is a GF relay for shape if responder is not a passed hand (even BPH if opener has set a GF). If 2N is not an ask, then it is natural. Included also is the 2S bid after 1C-1H-2D, as a GF ask. b. Opener responds naturally and economically: i) 3+crds in a previously unshown suit if possible (else this would show 5422 with extras) ii) 4+crds in a side suit if still possible iii) one of opener's suits, if extra length (when impossible, this is 5422 with extras) iv) 3 of a new suit, which is a 4crd suit, completing the description v) 3N and 4N showing distributions not covered by i/ii/iii/iv e.g. 1C[H]-1D[wait]-2D[good hand, nat]-2N[GF relay] 3C = 17-21, 1543/0643/0553 (a 3-crd suit) 3D = 16-18, 5+H-5+D, denies 3C 3H = 16-21, 6+H-4D, denies 3C 3S = 17-21, 3541 (a 3-crd suit, denying other types) 3N = 17-21, 2542 (only remaining possible type) 1D[S]-2C[5+H]-2S[no fit NF]-2N[GF shape ask]- 3m = 11-13, 5+S-4m, short H 3H = 11-12, 62(32), pretty good S (cannot have 3crds since 2S denied fit) 3S = 11-12, 6133 (denies 4m or 2H) c. In the sequences 1C-1H-2D-2S 1D-2C-2H-2N ... responses are according to the transfer scheme: i) bidding a suit shows extra length in the next-higher suit ii) 3N (and even 3S over 2S to deny at least a half-stop in clubs) shows the most balanced possible type iii) other bids show 3/4 crds in the suit, which may agree the most likely, but if it cannot be this then it is limited to a natural meaning e.g. 1C[H]-1H[S]-2D[nat]-2S[GF relay]- 2N = 11-16, 4H-5+D 3C = 11-16, 5+H-5+D (xfer to D) 3D = 11-16, 6+H-4D (xfer to H) 3H = 11-16, 1543 (xfer to impossible suit) 3S = 11-16, 2542, not even half-stop in C 3N = 11-16, 2542, at least half-stop in C 1D[S]-2C[5+H]-2H[min, to play]-2N[GF relay]- 3C = 5+-4+ S-C either way, 2H (C and not D, following natural criteria) 3D = 4+S-3H, no shortness 3H = 6+S-2H, suggests not having 4+C 3S = 5S-2H-4+D or 4S-2H-5+D 3N = 5233/4234/4243 d. In using the transfer scheme, if showing 5+crds in the lower suit (5+-5+), then opener to the next relay shows shortness up the line (l/h) in the order: sing/sing/void/void, except 3N is bypassed, reserved to show a stiff K/Q and not too much extras. e.g. 1C[H]-1H[S]-2D[nat]-2S[GF relay]-3C[5+5+]-3D[relay]- 3H = sing. C (lo short) 3S = sing. S (hi short) 3N = 11-14, 2551/1552, stiff K/Q (minimum, stiff honor) 4C = void C (lo void, wrapping around 3N) 4D = void S (hi void) 5. Relay Scheme a. The relay scheme applies after 1m-1S [GF relay] 1H-1S-2C-2D [art F1] 1S-2C [art F1] 1N-2D-2D/H/S-3C [GF re-stayman] 2C-2D [asks longer M] Shortness is usually shown up the line (l/m/h). Shapely hands are shown in steps. b. At the end of shape-showing (not having further relays or the shape is completely defined after a 1N opening) and GF shown by responder a suit without a jump below 4D (4D without a jump is an end-signal, forcing opener to bid 4H and then pass whatever responder bids next, except that 4N or 5H...5N are quant invites) is a strong bid setting the suit and asking for cue-bids. Setting the suit is done in long-to-short order. If suits are equal length or unknown length, the default order is H-S-C-D. Signing off in game is not used over 1m-1S if opener shows 14+ HCP (unlimited), and therefore 4D is used as a possible suit-agreeing step in the above scheme. e.g. 1N-2C[stay]-2S-3C[restay]-3D[4D]- 3H = asks doubleton (cares which) 3S = art sets first trump suit in queue: longest first - here equal length suits (S=D), so S first 3N = to play 4C = art, sets second suit in queue: sets D 4D = end-signal, forces 4H to pass/correct to final contract (except 4N, 5H+ = quant) 4H = art, sets third suit in queue, here H before C since relative length unknown 4S = art, sets last suit (C) after artif. setting suit, start cuebidding for that suit 1S[D]-2C[F]-2H[3H]-2N[GF relay]-3D[2353/3343/3352]-3H[R]-3S[2353]- 3N = to play 4C = sets first suit in queue = longest = D 4D = end-signal, prepares signoff 4H = sets second suit in queue = next-longest (H or C), since equal, H first 4S = sets third suit = C c. The 5-4 scheme is used over 1m-1S, if opener shows 5 in one of his suits and 4 in the other. The first step in the proceeding relays shows shortness in the lower side suit, 2nd step shortness in higher side suit, third step showin 5422. e.g. 1C[H]-1S[R]-2C[5+H]-2D[R]-2S[5H-4other]-2N[R]-3C[5H-4C]-3D[R]- 3H = lo side short (3514) 3S = hi side short (1534) 3N = 2524 d. The 6-4 scheme is used over 1m-1S and 1H-1S-2C-2D, if opener shows 6+ in one suit and 4 in the other. The first step to the following relay shows shortness in the lower side suit, second step shortness in higher. e.g. 1H[C]-1S[wait]-2C[5+C no 4M]-2D[R]-3D[6+C-4D]-3H[R]- 3S = lo side short (short H) 3N = hi side short (short S) e. The 5+-4 scheme is used after 1m-1S, if opener shows 5+crds in one suit and 4 in the other. The first step to the following relay shows 6+crds in the primary suit, and others are run-on to the 5-4 scheme steps. After showing 6+crds, the next relay follows the 6-4 scheme. e.g. 1D[S]-1S[R]-1N[4S or 5332]-2C[R]-2D[4S-5+m]-2H[R]-2N[4S-5+D]-3C[R]- 3D = 6+D-4S (relay follows 6+-4 scheme) 3H = 5D-4S, lo side short (4351/4450) 3S = 5D-4S, hi side short (4153/4054) 3N = 5D-4S-2-2 f. The 6+ scheme is used after 1m-1S, if opener shows 6 or 6+crd 1-suiter. Over the following relay, shortness is bid l/m/h, and the 4th step shows no shortnesss. e.g. 1C[H]-1S[R]-2C[5+H not 5332]-2D[R]-2H[6+H or 6+-4]-2S[R]-2N[6H 1-suiter]-3C[R]- 3D = 3631 (low side short) 3H = 3613 (mid side short) 3S = 1633 (hi side short) 3N = 6H-(322) (no side short) ************************* ************************* II. Slam Bidding ************************* ************************* 1. SLAMTRIES a. A simple slam invite is setting trumps below game when it is not used as a choice of games. This shows extra strength, forcing partner to cue-bid, unless he has the worst possible hand. Setting trumps below game is a direct slamtry in the following situations: i) a gameforce has already been set ii) 1D-2C-2N/3m-4m e.g. 1C[H]-1H[S]-3D[GF 5-5]-4D 1D[S]-2C[H]-3C[4S-5+C 11-13]-4C the following are invites, and NOT direct slamtries: 1C[H]-1D[wait]-3C[5-5 strong but NF]-4C (GF had not been set) 1S[D]-2H[H flexible]-4D (GF had not been set) b. A descriptive slamtry is a slow and non-forcing suit agreement, in a gameforcing situation, after first showing 2 suits naturally. This shows extra strength, shortness in the 4th suit, and agrees trumps. If a splinter had been available, then this route shows just 3-crd support. e.g. 1D[S]-2C[H]-2S[min misfit]-3C[nat GF]-3N-4S = extras, short D, 3S-5+H-4+C, slam invite but NF. c. Directly bidding game without stopping to set trumps more cheaply shows the worst possible hand for the auction to day or minimal chance of a good play at slam. With anything else it is better to make a simple slam try or cue-bid. 2. CUE-BIDS a. Honor cue-bids are bid cheaply up the line, while shortness (if not a splinter) is better shown on the first pass when: i) the hand has already shown a 2-suiter ii) the short suit bypasses 2 cue-bids, without which the slamtry would be highly improbable iii) trumps is a minor, the auction has not reached 4m, and showing the shortness goes past 4m Don't use shortness-showing in the early auction. Rebidding shortness shows a void, or a singleton Ace. The first cue-bid in partner's suit may be shortness. e.g. 1C[H]-1S[R]-2S[14+, 4S]-3C[6+C 1-suiter]-3N-4D = short D, crossing the 4C level 1N-2D[xfer]-2H-3D[D GF]-3N-4C = short C (2-suiter bidding side suit) 1D[S]-1N-2H[C or GF 1suiter]-3C[nat]-3S[1-suiter GF]-3N-4H = short H (bypassing 2 cue-bids improbably) b. A critical cue-bid is one that is interpreted initially as en passant or stopper-asking, and only on the following bid the cue-bid character of the first is revealed. e.g. 1S[D]-2C[R]-2D[art GF]-3D[nat]-3S[initially en passant no H stopper]-3N[H stop]-4C = S and C cues c. In murky situations, 4m is a natural bid and not a cue-bid if the previous auction showed a 6+crd minor, and partner has not promised a 6+ suit of his own. e.g. 1H[C]-1S[wait]-3C[inv]-3H[5+crds]-4C = natural (3H may be just 5crds) 3. SPLINTERS a. The sequences: 1C-3N/4m 1D-4m/4H ... show 12-15(-) and a 5+cd fit with shortness in the bid suit (3N = short S). 1H-3D/3M has the same meaning, except that it shows a 4+crd fit. Splinters (showing shortness) are used in more auctions (and over other openings) and appears as a jump-shift, which cannot be a natural bid in the system. A splinter promises enough honor strength for game, usually 4+ support for the agreed suit or the last-bid suit, as well as slam interest. e.g. 1H-3S 1C-3N 1D[S]-2C[H]-2S[no fit]-4C 1H[C]-2D[H]-3S 1C[H]-1H[S]-4C b. A special type of splinter is the autosplinter, used over a NT bid (or opening) or negative. Shortness is shown with a jump, showing a decent 6+crd trump suit, if partner has promised 2+crds (else it must have at least 3 honors), and extras. e.g. 1D[S]-1H[wait]-4D = 19+, self-sufficient 7+S, short D 1N-2D-2H-3S = 9+, 6+H, short S 1C[H]-1H[S]-1N[nat]-4C = 12+, 6+S, short C 1H[C]-1N[nat]-3D = 17+, 6+C, short D c. Over a 1N opening and superaccept by raising the transfer, 3N here is forcing and shows no shortness, or shortness in the retransfer suit. However, when a retransfer is not needed, then this ambuiguity is not needed. e.g. 1N-2H-3H-3N = 10+, 5+S, no shortness or short H, slam interest 1N-2D-3H-4D = 10+, 5+H, short D, slam interest d. Splinters offer some specialized continuations. Raising the splinter shows nothing wasted in the suit usually without a side cue-bid. Bidding 5M when M is trumps usually shows the Ace of the splinter suit and no side cue-bid. Bidding 3N over 1H-3D/M suggests playing there. e.g. 1C[H]-2D[good raise]-4D[spl]-5D = nothing in D, no side cue-bid 1D[S]-4C[spl]-5S = Ace of clubs, no sie cue-bid 1H[C]-3H[spl]-3N = suggests playing 3N 4. SPECIAL SLAM-INVITES a. Bidding a suit at the 6-level, if not to play, or at the 5-level above the level of trumps after a Blackwood response, is not asking but is an invite to grand slam, which depends on unrevealed values in the bid suit. If the invite suit is one in which partner has shown shortness, it asks for a void. e.g. 1H[C]-2C[F raise]-4N[BW]-5C-5S = invites grand opposite help in S 1D[S]-2N[good raise]-3D[nat]-3S-4C-4N-5S-6D = invites grand opposite help in D 1C[H]-4C[spl]-6C = asks for void C b. Quantitative NT is a power invite and depends on strength. A 4N bid is invite and not Blackwood, in the following situations: i) the last bid was a natural 3N or a 1N/2N opening; if partner of the inviter has an in-between hand, then he bids a conc. of values at the 5-level as a counter-invite ii) the last bid was a suit at the 3-level and no suit has been set, or a minor has been agreed; removing 4N to the agreed trumps suit or bidding a potential trump suit of ones own is signoff. e.g. 1H[C]-2C[F raise]-2N-3N-4N[quant]-5C[extras, good C]-5N = signoff 1N-4N[quant]-5N = extras, suggests evenly-distributed honors 2N-4N[quant]-5H[counter-invite conc.]-6C = suggests contract 1D[S]-2C[H]-2N[4144 min]-4N = quant 1C[H]-1H[S]-2S[17+ various]-3S-4N[quant]-5S = to play 1H[C]-2C[F raise]-3C[signoff bal]-4N = quant (minor agreed) 1S[D]-2C[R]-3D[6+D]-4N = quant (no suit set) 2H[multi]-2N[ask]-3D[min D-S]-4N = quant (no suit set) 1C[H]-1S[R]-3D[great 1-suiter]-4N = quant (no suit set) c. If 4N would have been a natural invite and the last bid was NT, or if a grand slam force is nonsensical, then a 5N bid forces to slam and shows difficulty in choosing the right strain. Continuations are natural and show a preference for the bid contract. e.g. 1D[S]-2C[H]-2S[no fit]-5N[pick]-6S = 6+S, suggests contract 1S[D]-2C[R]-2D[GF]-3C[nat]-3D-3N-5N[pick]-6C[pref for C]-6N = signoff, was evidently a 6D/6N choice 1N-5N[pick]-6D = decent 4D or 5-6D, suggests contract d. Another slam invite is naturally bidding the agreed suit at the 5-level if trumps is a major. It has two possible meanings: a trump invite showing good side values but asking for good trumps, or an inverted trump invite, showing very good trumps and no possible cue-bid. Usually the trump invite hands start with cue-bidding, and the inverted trump invites set trumps below game first. Which version of the invite the bid depends on the development of the auction. e.g. 1D[S]-2C[H]-2D[14+ GF]-2H[6+H]-3C[nat]-3H-3N-5H = reverse trump invite 1D[S]-2H[simple raise]-5S = trump invite 5. ASKING FOR KEYCARDS a. The ask can be 4NT (whether trumps have been set explicitly or implicitly, it is then asking for the 4 Aces and the King of trumps) as well as a special exclusion Blackwood (see [b]). 4N is asking, if after cue-bids or when it cannot be natural (as an invite), and otherwise when asking makes sense (see [d]). e.g. 1H[C]-2D[H]-4N 1N-2C-2H-4C[spl]-4N * Not Blackwood: 1N-2C-2D-4N b. Bids at the 4 or 5 level are exclusion Blackwood if it is bid as a jump below the level of trumps at the 5 level, and bids at a lower level would show shortness. An exception to this rule is a 4M bid, which without exclusion Blackwood would be natural. On defense, exclusion Blackwood may be only bid at the 5-level. Exclusion Blackwood asks for keycards outside of the bid suit, and promises 1st-round control of the bid suit. e.g. 1H[C]-4D 1D[S]-2C[H]-2H[to play]-5C 1N-2C-2S-5C 1C[H]-5D * Not Exclusion Blackwood 1D[S]-2D[good raise]-3D[nat slammish]-5C (4C would not be showing shortness, so this must be shortness) 1H[C]-2S[simple raise]-5D (5D is higher than 5 of the trump suit) 1C[H]-4S = nat (1C)-1H-4S = nat (even though 3S = splinter) c. Step responses: 1: 1 or 4 keycards (over Exclusion BW, shows 0 keycards) 2: 0 or 3 keycards (over Exclusion BW, shows 1 keycard) 3: 2 or 5 keycards, no Queen of trumps (over Exclusion, shows 2 keycards) 4: 2 or 5 keycards, Queen of trumps, no side King (over Exclusion, shows 3 keycards) 5: 2 or 5 keycards, Queen of trumps, 1 side King (over Exclusion, shows 4 keycards) 6: 2 or 5 keycards, Queen of trumps, 2 side Kings 7: 2 or 5 keycards, Queen of trumps, 3 side Kings Further bids at the 6-level are showing 2 keycards and a void (it is not obligatory to show a void, especially if the hand has already shown shortness). d. Over Blackwood (even Exclusion), the ask for the trump Queen is the next non-trump step (going back to trumps is a signoff). Responses are in steps, with the first showing no Queen, and others the Queen (or enough trumps to make the Queen unnecessary) according to number of Kings by steps (0, 1, 2, 3) but not including the King of trumps (already considered earlier as a keycard). The ask for number of Kings instead of the Queen is the next-cheapest non-trump step, and resposnes are 0, 1, 2, 3 Kings. e.g. Queen-asks: 1D[S]-4N-5D[0/3]-5H 1H[C]-4D[excl]-4S[1 keycard outside D]-4N 1N-2C-2S-5D[excl]-5S[1 keycard outside D]-5N Asks for # Kings: 1C[H]-4N-5H[2KC no Q]-5S 1D[S]-2D[good S raise]-4N-5C[1/4]-5H (5D would have asked Queen) 1N-2C-2H-4S[excl]-5C[1 KC outside S]-5S (5D would have asked Queen) e. Bidding 5N over normal Blackwood and a 5m response when a minor is trumps is to play, denying enough KC's for slam. e.g. 1S[D]-4N-5D[0/3]-5N = to play (5H would ask Q, 5S would ask # Kings) 1H[C]-4N-5H[2KC no Q]-5N = invites grand slam (did not get a 5m response) (5S would ask # Kings) f. Bidding 5N before setting trumps without using Blackwood or when the last bid suit is a natural suit (and grand slam force makes no sense) is asking for top honors in the suit. Step responses are 0, 1, 2, 3 top honors in the trumps suit. e.g. 1C[H]-1S[R]-2D[14+ 5+H]-5N-6D = 1 top H honor 4S-5N-6S = AKQ spades g. 4N is natural (quant 4N was discussed elsewhere), when the auction meets the following conditions: i) strength is limited and had earlier indicated interest in playing NT - this condition is not possible if partner has shown an Acol (22+ 5+crds) ii) nobody has taken control of the auction (usually partner is weak) iii) nobody has set trumps (not possible if partner has shown an Acol) Given the flexible interpretation of these conditions it's best to use the natural 4N only when it is clear. e.g. 1S[D]-2C[R]-3C[nat min]-3N-4C-4N = to play 1C[H]-1D[wait]-2S[GF M's]-3C[nat]-3S-4D-4S-4N = not clearly nat 4N, but shows extras and no cue, for S 1H[C]-1N[nat]-3S[GF autosplinter]-3N-4C-4N = to play 1H[C]-2C[F raise]-3H[14+ weak doub bal]-3N-4C-4N = to play *********************************** *********************************** III. Opener's Rebids in Competition *********************************** *********************************** A. After an overcall by LHO (2nd seat), and both partner and RHO (4th seat) pass. 1. Keeping the bidding open a. at the 1-level, reopening is obligatory unless unfavorable vul or holding length/strength in their suit b. at the 2-level, reopening is mandatory at favorable vul without strength/length in opp suit c. if reopening is not mandatory, then doing so shows extras in strength or distribution d. double is takeout-oriented 2. After an overcall at the 1 or 2 level a. A reverse shows 18-21 and an offensive hand, but if preceded by a double, it shows 16-21 but not an offensive max. b. NT bids are 19+, based on tricks. c. Showing a suit at the 2-level below the opening suit shows 5+ or a v. good 4 cards. d. Over 2D/2H/2S, 2N is special (Leb) showing 5+crds in a lower suit, or even 6+ in the opened suit if the overcall was a cue or higher with max 17 HCP (min is vul-dependent) or any GF unsuited for any other bid; partner must bid 3C (unless was trap-passing), over which opener passes C or shows his suit with max 17,or with a GF bids the opponent's suit or a 4-level bid e. Over 2D/2H/2S, directly bidding at the 3-level below the overcall suit shows 5+crds, 17(+)-21, while rebidding the opened suit at the 3-level over a jump overcall is invitational. f. A new suit at the 4-level shows 6+crds, GF g. Cue-bidding the opponent's suit is GF, an auto-splinter if a jump. 3. After an overcall at the 3-level or higher. a. At the 3-level, a double is a strong takeout with tolerance for a pass; vul-dependent b. At the 4-level or higher, double is just cards. e.g. 1S-(2C)-P-(P); 2S = 18-21, 4S-5+D, offensive hand 1H-(2D)-P-(P); X-2H-2S = 17-21, 4S-5+C, not max if offensive 1C-(2C)-P-(P); X-2D-2S = 19-21, 4S-5H, suggests defensive hand 1D-(2D)-P-(P); 3H = 17-21, 5+S-5+H 1C-(2S)-P-(P); 2N = max 17, or GF; 5+H-5+m or 6+H 1D-(2H)-P-(P); 2N-3C-3D = max 17 4S-5+D 1C-(2S)-P-(P); 2N-3C-4D = 5+H-5D GF (with 6+D bid 4D immediately) 1D-(2S)-P-(P); 4C = 5+H-6+C GF 1S-(2H)-P-(P); 3C = 17(+)-21, 5+D-5+C 1C-(2C)-P-(P); 2N = 5(4)+H, 8 tricks in NT 1H-(1N)-P-(P); X = 19+ 1C-(3S)-P-(P); X = strong takeout but passable 4. Responder's bids with a trap-pass and rebid by 2nd seat: a. Over 2nd seat's XX, pass is to play showing a trap-pass. Other bids are as normal over pd's double. b. Over 2nd seat's new suit bid, double is cards and shows the original trap-pass. c. Over 2nd seat's same suit rebid, double is penalty. 5. Bidding over 2nd seat's pass, responder's negative, and 4th seat's bid. a. Best is to bid as over 1m-(bid)-P-P, but double promises 16+. B. Double by opener when both opponents bid and partner passes or makes a negative. 1. Over an artificial bid by 4th seat: a. double is natural, showing extra length if RHO's bid was forcing b. double is takeout, if RHO's bid was NF (p/c, e.g.) below 3N (if higher, then penalty) c. double of NT is cards 2. Over a natural bid by 4th seat; a. double is takeout below 4 of the original suit b. in further bidding, if responder had passed originally, then removing opener's double to a 2-level suit is to play at the 2-level, invitational at the 3-level; however double of an opponent at the 2-level is takeout, and optional at the 3-level C. Opener's Rebids over a transfer response over LHO's overcall: 1. Over a transfer to 1S: 1C-(1D)-1H (showing spades) a. completing the transfer at the 1-level is F1, unlimited, showing 3S, or a GF bal with 4S b. jump-accepting the transfer at the 2-level is a simple raise, 4 cards c. cue-bidding the opponent's suit is GF, denies 3+S d. other bids have the same meaning as if no interference (1C-1H) 2. Over a transfer to 1N a. opener's rebid is just as over a natural 1N response b. over a 1N reid, responder's delayed simple raise shows an invite without a stopper, usually a doubleton in support, and opener's rebids are nat NF c. over a 1N rebid, a delayed cue-bid at the 2-level shows 13+/11+ forcing to game or 4m (except a later raise of opener's 2-suit rebid to the 3-level, which denies a stopper), denying a stopper and denying slam interest d. over a 1N rebid, bidding a 2m new suit is nat NF e. bidding 3C over a weak rebid (not 2C), shows 5+C (if a jump 6+), GF e.g. 1C-(1S)-X-2N = 16-17, invite 1D-(1H)-1S-1N-2S = 11-12, 2S, invite, no H stop 1C-(1S)-X-1N-2S-2N = 11-15, S stopper, forcing 1D-(1H)-1S-1N-2H-2S-3S = 12(+)-13, 2S, no H stop, invite 1C-(1S)-X-2D-3C = 5+C, GF 3. Over a 7+ HCP transfer to a new suit at the 2-level a. Completing the transfer is to play opposite an average transfer hand, further bidding is natural, Responder's bids: returning to opener's suit at the 2-level is NF with a weak 3crds, and at the 3-level is invite wwith a pretty good 3crds and a good transfer suit; a new minor is F1, a new major is GF, cue-bidding at the 2-level is F1, and at the 3/4 level GF b. 2-level reverse is F1 c. New suit non-reverse at the 2-level is NF, and at the 3-level withut a jump invite with 5+crds (if jump to 3-level, GF 5-5) d. NT, rebidding the opened suit, or raising responder is natural with higher = better e. Cue-biding is GF (or to 4m if the transfer was to a minor) e.g. 1C-(1S)-2C-2D-2H = 7-9, 5+D weak 3H, NF 1D-(1H)-1N-2C-3S = 10-11, 5+C, good 3S, invite 1D-(1H)-1N-2C-2N = 10-11, 5C, H stop, invite 1C-(1S)-2C-2D-2S = 10+, 5+D, F1 1C-(1D)-1N-2C-2S = 12+, 5+C-4S, F to game or 4m 1D-(2C)-2D-2H-3D = 11+, 5+H-4+D, F1 1C-(1D)-1N-2S = 5+H-4S, F1 1C-(1S)-2C-3C = 4+H-5+C, invite 1C-(1S)-2C-2N = invite 1C-(1S)-2C-2S = F to game or 4D 1D-(1H)-1N-3S = invite 1C-(1S)-2C-4D = distributional invite 1C-(1S)-2C-4C = 5+H-5+C GF 4. Over a 1-level transfer raise showing exactly 3crd support: a. Accepting the transfer at the 1-level is NF, 11-13 HCP, with low-offense 5crds or 4crds without a stopper - later new suit by responder is F1, even a cue b. 1N is natural, 11-14/14-16 with a stopper and 4(5) crds in the opened suit; responder's rebids of 2m are NF and the opponent's suit GF c. Jump-accepting the transfer at the 2/3 level is preemptive, 11-13 d. A simple new suit is natural, 4+crds, 14+ HCP (except 1S over transfer to H is 11+), F1 e. A single jump-shift to a new suit is 5+-5+, GF f. 2N = GF, 4(5)crds in the original major, and a stopper g. Cheap cue-bid of the opponent's suit = F1 e.g. 1C-(1D)-X-1H-2C = 10+, 5+C-3H, F1 1D-(1H)-X-1S-2H = 11+, 3S, denies 5+minor, F1 1C-(1D)-X-1N-2C = 7-11/7-9, 5+C-3H, NF 1D-(1H)-X-2S = 11-13, 5+S, pree, some distribution 1C-(1D)-X-3H = 11-13, 5+H, pree, very distributional 1C-(1D)-X-1S = 11+, 4+H-4S 1D-(1H)-X-2C = 14+, 4+S-4+C, F1 1D-(1H)-X-3D = 15+, 5+S-5+D, GF 5. Over a 2-level transfer raise showing 3crd support a. Accepting the transfer at the 2-level is NF; later bidding, responder's new suit is F1 (including a 2-level cue), while a 3-level cue of the opponent's suit is GF b. 2N is nat, invite, 4(5)crds in the opened suit (NS = F1, cue GF) c. Jump-accepting the transfer at the 3-level is 11-13, pree with some distribution d. Simple new suit = nat, 4+crds, F1 e. 2-level cue = F1, 3-level cue = GF e.g. 1C-(1S)-2D-2H-3C = 10+, 5+C-3H, F1 1C-(1S)-2D-2H-2S = 11+, 3S, no 5+m, F1 1D-(2D)-2H-2N-3C = 9+, 5+C-3S, F1 1D-(2C)-2H-3S = 11-13, 5+S, pree 1C-(2C)-2D-2S = 15+, 4+H-4S, F1 D. Bidding over 2nd seat interference, and responder's natural suit or 2/3 level transfer (not just 7+) 1. General rules a. a cue-bid is GF (or to 4m if the transfer is to a minor) b. NT is natural, acc. to strength c. rebidding the opened suit is NF d. raising responder's suit is invite 2. Over a 2S response a. 3-level new suit is invit 5+crds (jump is GF) e.g. 1C-(2D)-2S-3 = 4+H-5+C, invite 1C-(2C)-2S-4D = 5+H-5+D, GF 3. Over the transfers a. Completing the transfer shows a minimum opener without ability to rebid orig suit, NF b. Rebidding orig. suit without a jump shows a decent 6+crds, no fit, NF c. Other bids are GF, except a simple bid and responder rebidding his suit (NF) d. After transfer-completion, all responder's rebids are GF except a self-raise to 4m (invite) or later opener returning to responder's minor (4m NF) e. After opener rebidding his orig. suit (NF), all responder's bids are GF except returning to his own minor at the 4level e.g. 1D-(2H)-3C-3H-4D = NF (3H F1) 1C-(2S)-2N-3C-3D-3S-4C = F (not an immediate 4m rebid) 1D-(2D)-2N-3C-3D-4C = NF (3D = F1) 1D-(2H)-3C-3S-4D = NF 4. Over a 3-level jump-response a. new suit is forcing 1D-(1H)-3C-3D = F1 1C-(1S)-3C-3H = NF E. 1C-1H and 4th seat interferes a. Over a NT overcall, double is cards, and non-reverse bids NF b. Over a double, XX 14+ and penalty-interest, pass denies 3S, and other bids as if no interference c. Over a 2-level suit overcall, X = non-minimum with 3S (12+ or extra dist) or GF with 4+S d. Over a 2-level suit overcall, a non-reverse new suit = NF (but at 3-level invite 5+crds) e. 2N over 2C is natural invite, but over others it is Lebensohl (11-13 or 17+ with a side 5+crds or 6+crds in the opened suit); responder bids 3C with minimums (opener now passes with C or bids his suit with weak hands, or something else naturally with 17+ hands) f. Over a 2-level suit overcall, rebidding the opened suit without a jump at the 3-level is 14-16 (otherwise use Leb) g. Over 3-level suit interference, new suit = F1 h. Over 3-level suit interference, X is cards i. Double by responder in balancing position is extras with tolerance over a 2/3 level overcall, and higher just cards. *********************************** *********************************** IV. Competitive Auction in Later Rounds *********************************** *********************************** A. OBAR double 1. If we have not shown a major fit (minor fit ok) a. 2-level: X = optional b. 3-level: X = suggestive 2. If we have a major fit a. 2-level: X = optional b. 3-level: suggestive (unless the suit directly below our suit, in which case it is art invite) c. vulnerability determines the requiements for an optional double e.g. 1C-(1S)-X-(2S)-X = optional 1C-(1S)-2D-(2S)-P-(P)-X = suggestive 1c-(2S)-X-(3S)-X = suggestive 1D-(1H)-X-(2H)-2S-(3H)-X = invite, suggestive depending on vulnerability 1C-(1D)-1H-(2D)-2S-(3D)-X = suggestive B. Simple 2NT when no fit, and both opener/responder have bid. 1. By opener a. if the opponents have raised, 2N is Lebensohl by opener if it can make sense (else natural). 2. By responder a. 2N is Lebensohl, showing a minimum response but desire to play at the 3-level (or a GF) b. Opener over Lebensohl rebids 3C, over which partner bids a simple suit with weakess, or with a GF cue-bids, bids 3N, or jumps e.g. 1D-(1H)-1S-(2H)-2N = 11-13, 4+S-5+m, or 17+ 5+-5+ S-m or 6+S 1C-(1S)-2C-(2S)-2N = 11-13 6+H or 4+H-5+C, or 17+ 6+H or 5+H-5+, denies 3+D 1D-(1H)-2C-(2H); P-(P)-2N = Leb 1C-(P)-1H-(2D); P-(P)-2N-3C-P = 7-9, 4+S-5+C 1C-(P)-1H-(2D); P-(P)-3C = 10-11, 4+S-5+C (if weaker use 2N) C. Lebensohl by responder after an original pass/negative and strong double by opener a. 2N by responder shows a hand with any suit or a raise too weak for the 3-level b. Opener bids 3C automatically, unless a GF or length and trength in the opening suit e.g. 1D-(2H)-P-(P); X-2N = Leb 1C-(1S)-P-(2S); X- (2N = Leb, 3m = 5[4]+crds denies 3+H -invite, 3H = 3+H invite) 1D-(1H)-P-(2H); X-(P)-2N-3C- (Pass = 5[4]+crds denies 3+S -weak, 3D = 5+D denies 3+S - weak) *********************************** *********************************** V. Forcing Pass *********************************** *********************************** 1. Forcing pass when we are in the game or slam zone. A. Definition of forcing pass a. forcing pass shows the possibility of playing game if partner does not have defensive cards, and suggests shortness in the opponents' suit b. forcing pass may also show a hand with slam interest, removing partner's double later c. partner of the forcing pass can double with a defensive hand, or bid higher with an offensive hand d. forcing pass is also used in the slam-investigating autions on certain defined sequences B. At unfavorable vulnerability, very aggressive stance since bids are solid a. pass is forcing if the opening is not 3C or higher e.g. unfav: 2D-4H-(4S)-P = forcing (we are at game, opening was below 3C) unfav: 1C-4H-(4S)-P = forcing unfav: 1C-(X)-3H-(3S); 4H-(4S)-P = forcing (3H is never super-weak) unfav: 3H-(X)-4H-(P); P-(4S)-P = NF (3H opening) C. At equal or favorable vulnerability a. if our game ws bid after a preemptive bid by our side, pass is not forcing b. if game was bid after a direct bid by responder when no other raise is available, and so it may be strong, then pass is forcing c. over a 2D/2H/2S opening, when the immediate response was a game bid or forced, pass is not forcing e.g. equal: 1C-(1S)-4H-(4S)-P = not forcing (4H was pree) equal: 1D-(2D)-4S-(5D)-P = not forcing (4S was pree) equal: 1C-(3S)-4H-(4S)-P = forcing (4H was under pressure so could be strong) equal: 1C-(2S)-4H-(4S)-P = not forcing (4H was pree) equal: 2D-4H-(5C)-P = not forcing (immediate game bid) D. After our side has promised at least invitational strength, pass is forcing, except for the following situations when our side has not reached game: a) when we have expressly declined the invitation b) after 1M-2N, and the bidding is not at the 5-level c) if the opponents bid 4M when we have set m/H e.g. 1H-2C-(4H)-P = NF (we have set m but they bid 4M) 1C-(1S)-2S-(4S)-P = NF (we have set H but they bid 4M) 1C-2H-3H-(4C)-P = NF (we declined the invite) 1D-2D-(5C)-P = forcing (we have not declined the invite, 5-level) 1S-2N-(4S)-P = NF (1M-2N and not at 5-level) 2. At the partial level A. Definition of forcing pass a. pass puts the choice to partner: double the opponents, or bid higher b. if over an enemy overcall the bidding cannot die, then the strongest sequence is passing and then removing a double e.g. 1C-1S-(3S)-Pass = forcing 1D-(X)-XX-(2C); Pass-X-2S = strong forcing sequence 1D-2S-(3D)-P = forcing B. Forcing rules when it is possible to make a forcing pass a. making a forcing pass and the removing the double is the strongest sequence, GF b. bidding naturally without jumping is NF c. a jump-shift or cue-bid is GF with a distributional hand e.g. 1D-(1N)-X-(2H); 3C = 5+-4+ black suits, NF 1N-(X)-XX-(P); P-(2S)-P; X-3C = 5+C, GF (pass then remove) 1D-(X)-XX-(2D); P-X; 3S = great suit 6+crds 3 honors, slam interest (pass then remove) 1S-(1N)-X-(2C); 3D = 6+D, GF 3. Other situations a. over a 1-level opening, 2nd seat passes, at least a semipositive response, and 4th seat jumps to the 5-level or higher, pass is forcing 1D-(P)-1N-(5C); Pass = forcing 1C-(P)-2D-(5D); Pass = forcing *********************************************** *********************************************** VI. Handling Doubles of Slam Conventions or Relays *********************************************** *********************************************** 1. Over double of a relay or transfer A. Double of Stayman a) Redouble shows pretty good 4+ clubs b) Pass allows partner to decide, with XX as penalty, while 2D is natural forcing to 2N, and 2M is as over 1N-2C-2D c) With a doubleton club or bad 3 cards, it is better to respond as over no double d) over opener's bid (not Pass/XX), further bidding is same as with the double, except that 3C later is not re-Stayman but just asks for a stopper B. Double of 1C-1H-1S/1N-2C relay a) XX = pretty good 4+C b) Pass allows partner to decide, where XX is penalty, and other bids natural c) without a good 3 clubs, it is best to respond as if no double C. Double of a 2D/2H transfer a) XX = pretty good 4+ crds in the suit doubled b) Pass = denies 3+fit c) Completion of the transfer = 3+crds D. Double of a relay or other artificial responses to an opening 1N a) the following rules apply when any relay over a 1-level opening and in relays following Stayman, even 1N-2S-(X) or 1N-2D-2H-2S(X) b) Pass shows no stopper in the doubled suit, after which XX asks to continue the normal responses c) redouble is suggestive and shows length or values in the opponent's suit d) other bids are without change, but show a stopper in the opponents' suit unless of course the bid shows shortness in their suit e) EXCEPTION: bidding at the 3-level over 1m-1S-2C-2D-(X), which it is better to show 5+5+ without reference to a D stopper, and 3C bid shows short D and denies 5+-5+ distribution e.g. 1C-1S-2C-2D-(X)-P = no D stopper or shortness in D, good 4+D or 5+-5+ distribution 1D-1S-2C-2D-(X)-3C = short D, denies 5+-5+ distribution 1C-1D-2H-2S-(X)-2N = short S, S stopper is impossible 1C-1S-2H-2S-(X)-P-XX = asks to continue normal responses (pd does not have stopper) 1N-2C-2H-3C-(X)-3H = 3433 or 5H, promises C stopper 1C-1S-(X)-1N = 4H or 5H332, with stopper, denies 4S 1D-1S-2D-2H-(X)-XX = pretty good 4H, 6+S 1N-2S-(X)-3C = clubs longer than D, S stopper 1N-2D-2H-2S-(X)-P-XX-2N = 14(+)-16, no S stopper, doubleton H E. Double of a response to a relay, which is not showing shortness in the suit doubled (if it shows shortness continue as over a double of a cue-bid) a) XX = penalty (relayer knows more) b) Pass asks for a stopper in the doubled suit, over which XX denies one and others are responses to the next relay, with a stopper e.g. 1S-2C-3S-(X)-XX = Ace of spades (3S showed shortness) 1S-2C-2S-2N-3S-(X)-Pass-XX = 3145, no S stopper 1H-1S-2C-2D-2H-(X)-P-3C = 3H-6+C, H stopper (2S/2N not defined since 2N would have been relay) 1N-2C-2H-3C-3D-(X)-3H = relay 2. Double of slam convention A. Double of a cue-bid a) XX shows a first-round control, or King when the cue-bid promised an honor b) Pass asks to resolve the type of cue-bid: XX = 1st-round (if shortness was shown, it is void) B. Double of a bid asking keycards or in the RKC-asking sequence a) Pass shows the first step, XX = 2nd step, next suit = 3rd step, etc. b) After the Pass/XX, the next XX/step is the next ask C. Overall of an RKC or similar ask a) if the overcall is within 2 steps, Pass = step 1, X = step 2, first step = step 3, etc... b) if the overcall is higher, pass shows and odd # keycards, and double an even # (even Queen ask) D. Double of a response to an RKC ask a) Pass is asking and X by responder shows possession b) Over the asking pass, XX shows control of the doubled suit, and returning to trumps (even 5N) is negative, while other bids show extras with first round control (except when the bid goes past trumps in which case it shows slam interest) c) XX is a further ask, and shows 1st-round control in the doubled suit and and interest in bidding higher d) other bids have the same meaning as if no double e.g. 1D-2N-4N-5C - Pass = allows definition of C control, XX = asks Queen S, 5D = cue with no worry about C 1N-2H-3S-4C-4N-5D-(X)- Pass = asking about D control XX = no worry about D 5H = no good D control, cuebid, extras 5S = neg 6C = C void, diamond Ace, invites grand slam