1

Pendergrass-Diamond Precision Outline

John Pendergrass
Lawrence Diamond

January 2001
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OPENING BIDS
1♣ Forcing, could be 16 balanced 1-2 NV
1♦ 11-15, 2+ ♦
1♥/♠ 11-15, in principle 5+ cards. Exception: KQJx xx xx AQxxx
Usually open the major, even with a longer minor

1NT 13+-16, 10-13 (1-2 NV) avoid 5-card major, can be 2245 with 5m
2♣ 11-15, 6+ ♣, could be 5♣ in 3rd seat
2♦ 11-15, short ♦, weak two in 3rd seat
2♥/♠ Weak two
2NT 21-22
3♣ /♦/♥/♠ Normal pre-empts, rule of 2/3/4
3NT 1st/2nd seat: Broken 7-8 card minor.
3rd/4th seat: Gambling; partner should not remove.
4♣ /♦ 1st/2nd/4th seat: NAMYATS – 8 to 8.5 tricks in major (9-9.5 in 4th)
3rd seat: Natural and preemptive
4♥/♠ Natural, NAMYATS in 1st/2nd seat (< 8 tricks)
4NT Good 5 of a minor opening (ex Ax x x KQJ10xxxxx = 9 tricks)
5♣ /♦ Pre-emptive five-level minor suit opening
5♥/♠ Solid hand missing AK of trumps

Can open very light in 3rd seat NV. Example: KQxx xx Kxx xxxx

In 1st and 2nd, opening bids of 1♦/♥/♠ should promise at least 3 controls
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Responses to 1♣

1♦ Artificial, 0-7 pts

1♥ Positive in ♠ or 11+ balanced
1♠ Positive in ♥
1NT Positive in ♣ , shows 6+ clubs
2♣ Positive in ♦, shows 6+ diamonds
2♦ 8-10 pts balanced
2♥ Positive with exactly 9 cards in the minors 4-5 or 5-4
2♠ Positive with 5m + 4M or 5-5 minors.
2NT Positive with 5-5 majors
3♣ 8-12+ pts, <4 controls if >12 HCP, 4=4=4=1 or 1=4=4=4, GF
3♦ 8-12+ pts, <4 controls if >12 HCP, 4=4=1=4 or 4=1=4=4, GF
3♥/3NT/4♣ /4♦ 13+ pts, any 4-4-4-1, GF, 4+ controls, suit below singleton
3♠ Any 7-card solid suit (AKQxxxx or better)
4♥/4♠/5♣ /5♦ Broken 8-card suit, NF
4NT Plain Blackwood

If they double 1♣: Pass = 0-4

1♦ = 5-7
XX = 8+ balanced, 2+♣, now all doubles are penalty

If they double 1♦ response: Pass = strong NT hand (16-18)

1NT = 19-20 (also after overcall)
XX = 4+♦, now all doubles are penalty
Higher bids same as if no double
1♣ (X) 1♦ … systems on
2NT = 23-24 after double or overcall
(so 2♥ then 2NT is 25-27)

This response structure is also on after 1♣-(1♦).

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1♣ -1♦

1♥/♠ Natural, 4+ cards, 1RF

1NT 17-18 balanced (16-18 1-2 NV)
2♣ /♦ 5+ cards, NF
2♥ Artificial relay to 2♠, containing
23 + balanced OR
5-5 majors invitational OR
Game force in a minor OR
♥+ ♣ GF
2♠ Any 4-4-4-1, 20+ pts, not GF
2NT 19-20 balanced
3♣ /♦ Natural and invitational, natural follow-ups
3♥ 5+/5+ in minors, GF
3♠ ♠+ ♣ GF
3NT To play “Gambling”
4♥/♠ Better than NAMYATS
4NT Plain Blackwood
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1♣ -1♦-1♥/♠

1♠ (over 1♥) 0-7 pts, mandatory with 4+ ♠ unless responder has 4+ ♥

Then 2NT is artificial GF (3C waiting by responder)
2 level bids are NF, 3 level bids are invitational
1NT 0-5 pts, <4♥/♠ … structure as above
2♣ Artificial shows 6-7 pts, <3 card fit
Then 2NT is artificial game force, new suits are 1-round force
2♦ Artificial shows 6-7 pts, exactly 3 card fit
Then 2NT is artificial game force, new suits are 1-round force
2♥ (over 1♠) 6-7 pts, decent 5+ card suit
2Raise 0-5 pts, 4+ card fit, NF … if shortness then 0-2 pts
Same game try structure as after 1M-2M, i.e. short suit
2♠ (over 1♥) Splinter 3-5 pts, 4+ card fit; 2NT asks location
2NT (over 1♠) Splinter 3-5 pts, 4+ fit; 3♣ asks location
3 New Suit Natural, 0-5 pts, 6+ cards
3Raise 6-7 pts, 4+ card fit, no shortness, NF … 3N by opener is NF
3♠ (over 1♥) Splinter 6-7 pts, 4+ card fit; 3NT asks location
3NT (over 1♠) Splinter 6-7 pts, 4+ fit; 4♣ asks location
4 New Suit Fit Showing 5+ cards, 4+ fit, 6-7 pts, sets major as trumps
Typically 5-4-2-2 or with stiff honor
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1♣ -1♦-2♣ /♦
Responder’s new suits = NF, show 4-7 pts, 5+ cards
Responder’s 2N = 5-7 pts
Responder’s jump = splinter
1♣ -1♦-2m-2N-3M = shortness
1♣ -1♦-2m-2M … nothing is forcing by opener

1♣ -1♦-2♥
Artificial, demands relay to 2♠, and then …

2NT 23-24 balanced, rebids same as after 1♣-1♦-2NT

3NT 25-27 balanced, Stayman + transfers + quant + 5♣ Super Gerber
4NT 28-30 balanced, Stayman + transfers
3♣ /♦ Natural and GF, next step by responder is waiting
3♥ 5+/5+ in majors, invitational
3♠ ♥+ ♣ GF

1♣ -1♦-2♠
Unspecified strong (20+) 3-suiter … 2N by responder asks for strength and singleton.
After the 2N ask …

3♣ 20-23. 4-4-1-4
3♦ 20-23. 4-1-4-4
3♥ 20-23. 1-4-4-4
3♠ 20-23. 4-4-4-1
3NT 24-26. 4-4-4-1 NF
4♣ 24-26. 4-4-1-4 F
4♦ 24-26. 4-1-4-4 F
4♥ 24-26. 1-4-4-4 NF

Always bid suit below singleton. Then, responder bids the singleton as a relay to the next
suit, to sign off somewhere. Bidding a suit directly is a mild slam try.

If they interfere over 2NT, opener doubles to show shortness or passes to force
responder's double with length.
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1♣ -1♦-2N

19-20 balanced. Same structure over 2NT opening (21-22 balanced) or

1♣-1♦-2♥-2♠-2N (23-24 balanced)

3♣ Puppet Stayman … any later 4NT by responder is quantitative, any later 4♣ is

RKC.

Puppet Stayman responses:

3♦ No 5-card major but at least one 4-card major

Over 3♦, if responder is interested in a 4-card major, responder

bids the major he doesn’t have or 4♦with both majors.

3♥=Four spades
3♠=Four hearts
4♦=Both majors

3♥/♠ 5-card suit

3NT No 5-card major, no 4-card major

3♦/♥ Transfers. Responder rebids 4NT as quantitative.

3♠ Minor suit slam try; forces opener to bid 3N. Then responder bids 4m with
single-suited slam try, 4M shows shortness with at least 5-4 in minors, 4N
shows 5-4 in minors balanced. 4N by either side is to play in these
auctions.
4♣ Gerber (0/4,1,2,3)
4♦/♥ Transfers. Responder rebids 4♠/4NT as Kickback.
4NT Quantitative

Deduct the number of cover cards expected from partner from your modified loser count
(use adjustment for controls and Qxx=2.5) to determine whether or not to invite/bid
game/slam.
With 19-20 HCP partner is expected to have 6 cover cards if a nine-card fit is exists.
With 21-22 HCP partner is expected to have 6-7 cover cards if a nine-card fit exists.
With 23-24 HCP partner is expected to have 7 cover cards if a nine-card fit exists.
With 25-27 HCP partner is expected to have 8 cover cards if a nine-card fit exists.
If a nine-card fit is not known to exist add 1 loser or use the lower estimate before
investigating game or slam.
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1♣ -1♥

1♠ Asks (TAB), promising 3+ spades.

1NT 11+ balanced
Higher bids Show ♠ length/strength (TAB answers).
1NT Balanced, unlimited, asking bid, AK-controls
Tend to bid 1NT with all balanced hands
Then, new suit from opener is natural, not control ask.

2 new suit Natural, support asking bid

2NT 4-4-4-1 short in responder’s suit, 19+, natural follow-ups
3NT 4-4-4-1 short in responder’s suit, <19, natural follow-ups
Jump Shift Natural, sets trumps … responder should Q-bid A or K.
If opener can rebid 2♠ after interference, this is a trump ask with similar responses as to
1♠.

In auctions of the type 1♣ -1♥-1♠-2♣ -2♥-2♠-3♠, the 3♠ bid offers a choice of

games, 3NT or 4♠.
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1♣ -1♥-1♠-1NT
2♣ Relay
2♦ 14+, any except 3=3=3=4 2♥ = Relay

2♥ 11-13, 4 hearts 2♠=relay for additional distribution

2♠ 11-13, 4 spades, denies hearts 2NT=relay for additional distribution
2NT 11-13, no 4-card M or 5-card m 3♣ =relay for additional distribution
3♣ 11-13, 5332 hand with 5 clubs 3♦=relay for short suit (natural)
3♦ 11-13, 5332 hand with 5 diamonds 3♥=relay for short suit (natural)
3♥ 11-13, 2=2=4=5 3♠= CRASH for Aces
3♠ 11-13, 2=2=5=4 3NT is to play, 4♣ =CRASH For Aces
3NT 14+, 3=3=3=4 4♣ = CRASH for Aces

1♣ -1♥-1♠-1NT-2♣ -2♥-2♠
2NT 4 spades 3♣ =relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♣ 4 clubs 3♦=relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♦ 4 diamonds 3♥ =relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♥ 3=4=3=3 3♠=CRASH
3♠ 2=4=2=5 3NT is to play; 4♣ =CRASH
3NT 2=4=5=2 4♣ =CRASH

1♣ -1♥-1♠-1NT-2♣ -2♠-2NT
3♣ 4 clubs 3♦=relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♦ 4 diamonds 3♥ =relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♥ 4=3=3=3 3♠ =CRASH
3♠ 4=2=2=5 3NT is to play; 4♣ =CRASH
3NT 4=2=5=2 4♣ =CRASH

1♣ -1♥-1♠-1NT-2♣ -2NT-3♣
3♦ 3=3=4=3 3♥ =CRASH
3♥ 2=3=4=4 3♠ =CRASH
3♠ 3=2=4=4 3NT is to play; 4♣ is CRASH
3NT 3=3=3=4 4♣ =CRASH
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1♣ -1♥-1♠-1NT-2♣ -2♦-2♥

2♠ 4 spades (can have 4 hearts) 2NT=relay

2NT 4 hearts, denies 4 spades 3♣ =relay
3♣ 5332 with 5 clubs 3♦=relay for short suit
3♦ 5332 with 5 diamonds 3♥=relay for short suit
3♥ 2=3=4=4 3♠=CRASH
3♠ 3=2=4=4 3NT is to play; 4♣ =CRASH
3NT 3=3=4=3 4♣ =CRASH

After 1♣ -1♥-1♠-1NT-2♣ -2♦-2♥-2♠-2NT

3♣ 4 clubs and 4 spades 3♦ =relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)

3♦ 4 diamonds and 4 spades 3♥ =relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♥ 4=4=2=3 3♠ =CRASH
3♠ 4=4=3=2 3NT is to play; 4♣ =CRASH
3NT 4=3=3=3 4♣ =CRASH

After 1♣ -1♥-1♠-1NT-2♣ -2♦-2♥-2NT-3♣

3♦ 4 diamonds and 4 hearts 3♥ = relay for residual

3♥ 2=4=3=4 3♠=CRASH
3♠ 3=4=2=4 3NT is to play; 4♣ =CRASH
3NT 3=4=3=3 4♣ =CRASH

Other rebids over 1NT response:

2♦ Natural, responder’s major suit rebids show concentration

2♥/♠ 5+, asks for SUPPORT responses
2NT Clubs, Responder’s 3♣ =fit, then opener’s 3♦/♥/♠ shows
shortness; 3♦/♥/♠ by responder denies fit, show values
3 Level Sets trumps
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1♣ -1♠
2♥ trump ask, 1NT control ask, other bids support asks and as above.

1♣ -1NT

2♣ Trump asking bid

2♦/♥/♠ Support asking bid
2NT 16-18 balanced
3JS Natural, sets trumps, but can play in 3N
3NT 19-20 balanced

1♣ -2♣
Similar to 1♣ -1NT

1♣ -2♦
New Suit Support ask
2NT Shape ask
3♣ No major, then 3♦ asks for stoppers
3♦ Both majors, then 3M is jack ask
3♥/♠ Responder bids the major he doesn’t have
3NT No major 4-3-3-3

1♣ -2♥
After 1♣ -2♥ 2♠= Relay

2NT 4 diamonds + 5 clubs, 8-11 HCP 3♣ =relay for residual (2-2 / 1-3 / 3-1 / 0-4 / 4-0)
3♣ 5 diamonds + 4 clubs, 8-11 HCP 3♦=relay for residual (2-2 / 1-3 / 3-1 / 0-4 /
4-0)
3♦ 4 diamonds + 5 clubs, 12+ HCP 3♥=relay for residual (2-2 / 1-3 / 3-1 / 0-4 / 4-0)
3♥ 5 diamonds + 4 clubs, 12+ HCP 3♠=relay for residual (2-2 / 1-3 / 3-1 / 0-4 / 4-0)
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1♣ -2♠
After 1♣ -2♠ 2NT = relay

3♣ 5 clubs + 4 hearts 3♦=relay for residual (see below)

3♦ 5 clubs + 4 spades 3♥=relay for residual (see below)
3♥ 5 diamonds + 4 hearts 3♠=relay for residual (see below)
3♠ 5 diamonds + 4 spades 3NT is to play; 4♣ =relay for residual (see below)
3NT 5-5 minors, 8-11 HCP 4♣ =relay for residual (see below)
4♣ 1=2=5=5, 12+ HCP 4♦=CRASH for Aces
4♦ 2=1=5=5, 12+ HCP 4♥= CRASH for Aces
4♥ 0=3=5=5, 12+ HCP 4♠= CRASH for Aces
4♠ 3=0=5=5, 12+ HCP 4NT=CRASH for Aces

After the relay over a 3X response, residual is shown in steps, as follows: 1st step
shows a minimum hand with 8-11 HCP, 2nd and further steps are 2-2, 1-3, 3-1, 0-4, 4-
0. Skipping the first step shows the residual distribution with extra values, e.g. (12+
HCP). If responder is a paseed hand, ne can skip minimum step and go directly to
distribution.

In this and other contexts, the suits are counted the way we would describe them from
the top down, i.e. 1-3 means a singleton in the higher ranking side suit and 3 of the
lower ranking suit. After the first step (minimum) response, the 1C hand uses the
next step other than 3NT as a further relay for the rest of the steps, i.e. starting with 2-
2, 1-3, etc.

After a 3NT response and a 4♣ relay, the step responses show 1-2, 2-1, 0-3, 3-0.
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1♣ -2NT and higher

After 1♣ -2NT 3♣ =Relay

3♦ 8-11 HCP 3♥=relay for residual (steps 1-2, 2-1, 0-3, 3-0)
3♥ 5=5=1=2 12+ HCP 3♠=CRASH
3♠ 5=5=2=1 12+ HCP 3NT=natural, 4♣ =CRASH
3NT 5=5=0=3 12+ HCP 4♣ =CRASH
4♣ 5=5=3=0 12+ HCP 4♦=CRASH

1♣ -3♣ 3♦ asks which singleton … 3♥: 4=4=4=1; 3♠: 1=4=4=4. 4♣ /4♦ RKC.

1♣ -3♦3♥ asks which singleton … 3♠: 4=4=1=4; 3NT: 4=1=4=4. 4♣ /4♦ RKC.

1♣ -3♥/3NT/4♣ /4♦ Bid shows suit below singleton … forcing to 4NT

4♣ /4♦ RKC over 3♥/3NT
Step 1 = asking for controls over 4♣ /4♦ (4,5,6,7,etc.)

1♣ -3♠ 7-card solid suit

3NT Nonforcing
4♣ asks for the solid suit. Responses natural. If followed by 4NT,
asks for outside aces.
4♦ “I know your suit” … make a natural Q-bid of A, K, stiff, or void
4NT Plain Blackwood outside of suit, followed by back on track specific King
ask, if possible.
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Interference over 1♣

 After any overcall through 1NT, double is usually any 5-8

 After 2♣ or higher overcall, double is 5-8 any hand OR
9+ and 4-4-4-1 OR
Balanced 9+, no stopper or awkward

After any overcall, new suit is 9+ natural (5+cards) GF. If overcall was 1♦ and
advancer does not bid then all systems are on.

 If double was 2NT or higher, sets up GF

 1C-1D-1H-(1S) systems are on with double “stole my bid”
 Double guarantees a rebid at 1-level, except over opener’s minimum NT
 Once they have been doubled (or passed) for penalty, all doubles are for penalty
 Direct Q-bid of one level overcall shows balanced game force with no stopper
 If the overcall does not guarantee 4 of the suit, then the “Q-bid” is natural and GF
 If opener bids NT, we play strong NT systems ignoring any opponents suits
 Jumps in competition are forcing
 If they make a 2-suited bid, play Unusual vs. Unusual style. For example:
1♣ - (DBL for majors) - 1♥ = GF ♣
1♠ = GF ♦
2♣/♦ = 5-7 pts NF

1♣-(1♠)-P-(2♠)-? All actions by opener are game invitational. Therefore, responder

is in a "mandatory" re-opening position.

1♣ -(1NT=minors)-? 3♣/♦ = game-forcing splinter

3♥/♠ = preemptive
4♥/♠ = preemptive
2-level calls by either player are unusual vs. unusual style, both
directly and after double.
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Interference over 1♣

Doubles – General Rules

 First double by either player is takeout unless he has already had a chance to
make a takeout double
 Second double by partnership is takeout
 Third double by partnership is penalty
 If we are in a game force, all doubles are penalty
 If we have already doubled or passed for penalty, all doubles are penalty
 1♣-(2any suit)-X … Lebensohl style by 1C opener, including promising or
denying stopper. Double should try to show length in the unbid major(s).
 1♣-(1♠)-X-(2♠) … now this is a Lebensohl situation from both sides.
 1♣-(P)-1♦-(2♠)-X … now this is a Lebensohl situation for responder.
 1♣-(2♠)-X-3♥ opener's call is invitational.
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Asking Bids
AK-control Ask
The AK-control ask applies in the sequence 1♣-1♥/♠-1NT and 1♣ -1♥-1♠-2any-2NT.
After either use of the AK-control ask, bidding responder’s known major below the
level of game is a TAB.

Responder bids as follows:

2♣: 0-2 controls (A=2, K=1)
2♦: asks for clarification
2♥: 0 or 1 king
2♠: 1 ace
2N: 5-3-3-2 distribution and 2 kings
3♣: at least 4 clubs and 2 kings
3♦: at least 4 diamonds and 2 kings
3M: at least 6 of responder’s major, no 4-card suit, 2 kings
3oM: at least 4 cards in the suit, 2 kings
2♦: 3 controls
2♥: 4 controls
2♠: 5 controls
2N: 6 or more controls
3♣: asks for clarification
3♦: 6 controls
3♥: 7 controls
3♠: 8 controls
3♣: Natural, 5+ clubs. Shows 2 of top 3 honors in both suits.
3♦: asks for controls
3♥: 2 controls
3♠: 3 controls
3N: 4 controls, etc.
3♦: Natural 5+ diamonds. Shows 2 of top 3 honors in both suits.
Opener asks for controls by bidding 3oM
3♥: If hearts was responders suit, shows 6+ cards semi-solid (AKJ, KQJ or
AQJ). Then, opener bids 3♠ to ask for controls. If responder originally
showed ♠, then the bid shows 5-5 in the majors with 2 of the top 3 honors
in each suit. 4♣ by opener would ask for controls.
3♠: If spades was responder’s original suit, this shows 6+ spades semi-solid.
Otherwise, this shows 6 hearts and 5 spades. 4♣ by opener would ask for
controls.

After opener determines the number of controls, opener’s rebid of NT at the minimum
level is forcing and asks for responder’s distribution. Responder bids naturally. He
shows a second suit if he has one, rebids a 6-card or major, or bids NT with 5-3-3-2
distribution. With 6-4 show 4-card suit first.
After the AK-ask, 3M by opener asks for shortness with void responses.
After 1♣-1♥-1NT, a 3♠ response to the 2NT shape ask shows 6+ ♠.
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Trump Ask
When partner has shown 5+ trumps, responses to the ask are:
1st step: no top honor
2nd step: 1 top honor, 5 cards
3rd step: 2 top honors, 5 cards
4th step: 1 top honor, 6+ cards
5th step: 2 top honors, 6+ cards
6th step: all 3 top honors
When partner has shown 6+ trumps, responses to the ask are:
1st step: no top honor
2nd step: 1 top honor, 6 cards
3rd step: 2 top honors, 6 cards
4th step: 1 top honor, 7+ cards
5th step: 2 top honors, 7+ cards
6th step: all 3 top honors
New suit bids are now CAB
These are on including the 3-level in case of interference.

After the 1st or 6th step, a direct rebid of the trump suit (non-game if 1st step) asks for
length.

Sequences where trump asks apply: 1♣-1♥-1♠

1♣-1♠-2♥
1♣-1NT-2♣
1♣-2♣-2♦
Jack Ask
When partner has shown exactly 4 trumps, responses to the ask are:
1st step: no top honor
2nd step: 1 top honor, no J
3rd step: 1 top honor with J
4th step: 2 top honors, no J
5th step: 2 top honors with J
6th step: all 3 top honors

Sequences where jack asks apply: 1♣-2♦-2NT-3♦-3M

2♣-2♦-2♥-2♠- …
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Support Ask With interference, support asks are on only at 2-level.

When partner may or may not have support, responses to the ask are:
1st step: <3-card support, no extras
2nd step: <3-card support, extras
3rd step: 3-card support, no extras
4th step: 3-card support, extras

Extras are defined as 4+ controls or 11+ HCP and 3 controls or 13+HCP

Sequences where support asks apply: 1♣-1NT-2 any suit

1♣-1♥/♠-2 new suit
1♣-2♣-2M

If support is shown then new suit bid is CAB.

If opener doesn't get support and reverts to responder's suit, it is a trump ask. If no
support, other calls are natural.

Interference: X suggests penalty, pass is first response step, then on up.

CAB
After any kind of trump ask, a new suit is a control ask. Responses are:
1st step: no control
2nd step: 2nd round control
3rd step: 1st round control
4th step: AK
A re-bid of the CAB “suit” asks whether the control is length (1st step) or high-card (2nd
step). If that distinction is already known, then a re-bid of the “suit” asks for the next
level of control (cheapest step = no).
Other sequences where control asks apply:
New suits after a 4♥/♠ opening or NAMYATS 4♣/♦ opening.

If they double a CAB ask, P=1st step, XX=natural, otherwise step on up.

If they bid over any ask, P = 1st step, X=penalty, otherwise step on up.
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1♦
1♥/♠ 3+ cards. Responder will “always” bid, even with a weak hand.
1NT (after 1♥) usually denies 4♠
2♣ promises both minors
2♦ = 5+ ♦
3♣ by responder is game force
1♦-1♠-2♦-2♥ = invitational
1♦-1♠-2♦-3♥ = forcing
Jump reverse to 3-level = good 6-5
1♦-1♠-1NT-2♥ = pass or correct (at least 5-5)
1♦-1♠-1NT-3♥ = Slam invite, at least 5-5 with good suits
1♦-1♥-1♠-3♣ = weak
1♦-1♠-2♣-2♥ = GF (4sF)
1♦-1♠-2♥ = natural, OR 3♠ with max
2NT asks, 2♠= P/C, 3♣ = ♦inv+, 3♦= NF, 3NT = bar bid
After 2NT ask, 3♣ = ♥, 3♦= ♠,
3♥ = ♠+♥ feature, 3♠ = ♠+♣ feature
1♦-1♥-2♠ = 3♥, max, 5+ ♦ … 2NT is natural + forcing, 3♣ = ♦inv+
2Raise 4-card support or 3 with a singleton
2NT (or 2♠ over ♥) is an asking bid using the Garozzo 5-step
responses
Other steps are natural short suit tries
1♦-1♠-2♠-2NT-any-3♠ = NF
1♦-1♥-2♥-2NT is SSGT in spades
If any comp after raise, then 2NT is natural.
Responder’s 4-level jump = length slam try (w/5 in major)
2NT = 6♦, no 3-card support (then 3♦=NF, 3M=GF, 4♦=RKC)
3♣ = 5-5 NF (then 3M=F, 4♦=♣RKC, 4♥=♦RKC)
3♦ = 6♦, with 3-card support, NF (then 3M=GF)
3Raise guarantees side stiff/void
Next step asks: S1 = void somewhere
S2 = stiff ♣
S3 = stiff other major
3NT = long diamonds, gambling
Higher Jumps super splinter raise, promising void

After 1♦-1X-1Y, responders jumps in an already bid suit (or 3♥, but not 3♣ )
are slam invitational either a 6-card suit (responder repeats his suit) with at
most one loser, or 5-5 in two suits with at least 2 of the top 3 honors in each
suit.
 20

1♦

1NT 0-6 to “less than enough to make game opposite balanced max”
2♥/♠ Natural, extras, NF
3♣ 5-5 NF
3♥/♠ Shortness
2♣ Natural GF
2♦ Most hands with 5+♦
2♥/♠ Not specifically 4-4 in ♦+M. Any 4-card major is shown.
We must assume diamonds are unstopped.
1♦-2♣ -2♥-2♠ may be a probe, so after 3♠, 3NT is to play
2NT Natural, no 4-card major, thus 4+♦
3♦ Natural, semi-solid suit or better, sets trumps
3♥/♠ Splinter, without 4 cards in other major
By PH, 2♣ =NF, natural follow-ups

2♦ Inverted, off in comp, on by PH, no major

Can stop in 2NT or 3♦ if it’s next bid by either player
1♦-2♦-3♥/♠ short, 1♦-2♦-2NT-3♥/♠ short
1♦-2♦-other-3♥/♠ notrump probe
1♦-2♦-3♣ Natural and forcing, but can play in 3♦

2♥ 5♠ + 4♥, weak… 2NT asks fragment, 3m = correction

On by PH, off after double (after double = fit)
2♠ Soloway-type strong jump-shift
2NT Invitational
3♣ forcing, 3♦signoff, 3♥/♠ short
3♣ Invitational (fit in comp) … 3♦signoff
3♦ Preemptive
3♥/♠, 4♣ Weak (fit in comp)
3NT 13-15
4M Shortness
4♥/♠ To play (also in comp)
4NT Blackwood
 21

1♦
2-way checkback
These also apply to 1♥-1♠-1NT and 1♦-1♥-1♠
1♦-1♥/1♠-1NT-2♣ Forces opener to bid 2♦; either invitational or weak with ♦

Over 2♦, the responses are:

Pass weak, 6+♦

2oM game invitational with both majors
2M mild game invitation with 6-card suit
2NT game invitation with a 5-card suit
3♣ game invitation with 5-card major and clubs
3♦ game invitation with 5-card major and diamonds
3♥ -- (After 1♦-1♠-1NT) Highly invitational with 5-5 in the majors
(After 1♦-1♥-1NT) Highly invitational with 6 hearts
3♠ -- (After 1♦-1♠-1NT) Highly invitational with 6 spades

1♦-1♥/1♠-1NT-2♦ GF

opener makes the cheapest possible rebid that would show any of the following
holdings: 3-card support, 4-cards in the other major, or a 5-card minor
2NT shows (2-3)-4-4 and responder can bid up-the-line for a 4-4 minor suit fit.

1♦-1♠-1NT-2♥ Weak 5-5

-----------------------------------------------------------------

1X-1Y; 2Y Structure (Garozzo 5-step responses)

After opener raises responder's response, the relay asks for info about opener's hand, in 5
steps:

1) 4-card raise, UNBAL then relay  1/2 steps = MIN, hi/lo sing 3/4 steps = MAX, hi/lo
sing
2) 3-card raise, MIN
3) 3-card raise, MAX
4) 4-card raise, No Sing, MIN (always the trump suit)
5) 4-card raise, No Sing, MAX

This applies to 1♥-1♠-2♠ also.

 22

1♥/♠

1NT Semi-forcing, includes 3-card limit raise

If 1♠ opener bids a minor, responder’s jump to 3♥shows ♥and minor-suit fit
(usually 5-5), NF
Opener’s jump shift = 5-5 NF
Opener’s 2NT = invitational, 6-card major
Opener’s 3NT = usually solid 7-card major
Responder’s reopening 2NT = takeout
Double from either side is takeout
BART (see separate section)
2♣ /♦ Natural, game forcing
Jump rebids in major = semi-solid, can be minimum, can play in 3NT (no serious
3NT here), otherwise, the major is set as trumps
If responder makes a GF 2/1 and jumps rebids opener's major to 3, it shows
3 trumps with shortness somewhere. Opener bids the next step (3S
over 3H or 3NT over 3S) to ask for the shortness.
2Raise Constructive, 8-10/11 pts, 3 trumps
Cheapest call forcing inquiry (natural SS tries); then 3♥ from opener is natural
4-card suit
Responses to inquiry = shortness on 3-level, source of tricks on 4 level
1-2-3 = good 6-card suit at any colors (but weak in comp)
After raise, 4-level bid is length slam try (same thing for 1♦-1M-2M)
2♠(over 1♥) Strong jump shift, Soloway style. Responder has either 1) a self
sufficient suit (1-loser or less); 2) a strong notrump (16-18 pts); or
3) good spades and 4-card heart support – if responder bids a 2nd
suit next round it is a stiff or void.
2NT Jacoby game forcing raise – on after double, off after overcall
3♣ Bergen constructive raise (on after double) 9-loser
Fit-showing in comp or by PH

3♦ Bergen limit raise(on after double) 8-loser

Fit-showing in comp or by PH

3Raise Preemptive

3♠(over 1♥) Unspecified splinter, 7 losers. Also 3NT over 1♠.

3NT(over 1♥) 6-loser spade splinter

4♣ /♦ or 1♠-4♥ 6 or fewer losers splinter (also by PH if no comp); fit in comp
 23

1♥/♠

4♥ (over 1♠) 6 or fewer loser splinter, natural in comp

4♠ (over 1♥) Always to play
1♥-1♠ Should be alerted as only promising 3+ if responder has less
than invitational values. If opener JS, responder’s 3♥ is NF
1♥-1♠-2♠-4♥ Natural, NF
1♥-1♠-2♠-3♥ Short suit game try in hearts
1♥-1♠-3♥ 6+♥, 3♠
1♥-1♠-2♠-2N Garozzo single raise inquiry
1♥-1♠-1N 11-15 balanced; 2-way checkback is on
1♥-1♠-2N Plain natural, 6+ ♥
1♠-2♥-3♥ Can’t play in ♠ unless next bid is 3♠

1♥-1N-2♦-3♦ Now 3♥and 4♥ are natural and nonforcing; to keycard one must
cuebid first.

Jumps to 3-level by PH are fit-showing in or out of comp

1M-(preempt)-4M … responder is in control of auction
1♥-(any ♠)-4♥-(4♠) Double = 5-level desire
1♥-1♠-1NT... 2-way checkback is on
 24

1♠-1NT-2♣ … (BART)

2♦ Artificial, “shows” 5 hearts

2♥ Shows 6 hearts

Responder can differentiate between a weak or strong preference to 2♠.

1♠-1NT-2♣-2♠ shows two spades with up to 8 HCPs or three spades with up to 7 HCPs.
1♠-1NT-2♣-2♦-2♥-2♠ cancels showing 5 hearts and shows 9-11 HCPs with exactly two
spades.

Responder can also differentiate between a weak or strong raise to 3♣. A direct raise
shows a minimum raise to 3♣. Bidding 2♦ and then over 2♥ bidding 2NT or 3♣ cancels
showing five hearts and shows the strongest possible raise to 3♣. Since opener might
have only two clubs, responder bids 2NT with a four-card or five-card (weak suit) raise.
With a five-card (strong suit) or six-card raise, responder bids 3♣.

If responder wants to play diamonds, he must bid 3♦ over 2♣.

Opener bids 2♣ over 1NT even with 5-3-3-2 and a doubleton club.
1♠-1NT-2♥-3m is to play
 25

Jacoby 2NT
3♣ All minimums (then after sign-off it shows void)
3♦ then asks:
3♥ = shortness somewhere; 3♠ natural void ask (show even if no room)
3♠ = any 5-4-2-2; 3NT asks natural for 4-card suit
3NT = 6-3-2-2 minimum
4X = second 5-card suit (Kxxxx minimum)
4M = medium 5-3-3-2 (minimum but 4+ controls)
3♥and higher = CAB

3♦ Non-minimum, shortness somewhere

3♥ natural void ask
3♠ and higher = CAB

3♥ Non-minimum, 5-4-2-2
3♠ natural asks for 4-card suit
3NT and higher = CAB

3♠ Non-minimum, 6-card suit, no shortness

3NT Non-minimum, 5-3-3-2 (14+ HCP with 4+ controls)

4X Non-minimum, second 5-card suit (Kxxxx minimum)
4M Awful 5-3-3-2 (minimum with less than 4 controls)

Follow-ups other than CABs as listed are natural cue bids

Unusual sounding suit bids after 4M signoff tend to be voids

INTERFERENCE Double = shortness in suit

Nonjumps (below 3M) natural, jumps = long suit
3NT = balanced maximum, A or K in their suit
Pass = nothing to say, now responder’s double is penalty
If they double asking bids, XX = business, pass = step 1, etc.
If they bid over asking bids, X = penalty, pass = step 1, etc.
If they double 2NT, pass = nothing, XX =defensive, other bids retain meaning
 26

Interference after 1♦/♥/♠

 If they overcall after 1♦ (P) 1NT then opener’s double is penalty.
 If they overcall 2m after 1♦ - 1♥/♠ - 1NT, responder’s double is penalty.
 If they overcall after 1M (P) 1NT then double is takeout from either side
 If we have an agreed trump suit, then we can’t play doubled in a new suit, but we
can play redoubled.
 Jumps in comp are fit except for 4♥/♠. After DBL, Bergen is still on, however.
 If 1♦ opener voluntarily shows a new suit in comp, he has real ♦.
 In comp, fit showing jump = FP if we bid past 3 of our suit (not if we overcall).
 In comp, a jump to 4 of a major does not set up a FP.
 After 1♦ opening, responder’s new suits are 1-round force on 2-level. However,
he can pass minimum NT rebid, minimum suit rebid, or a raise, even in further
comp. If responder rebids his suit it is NF even if opener has bid a new suit. But,
if responder raises opener’s major on his 2nd turn it is GF.
 Responder’s new suits on 3-level are GF = FP.
 Negative double of 3♣ and higher sets up FP if we get to game.
 1♦ (1M) 3M = splinter
 Return by opener to 3 of his suit over invitational 2NT is NF.
 New suits in comp by PH at 3-level or higher promise fit.
 After 2/1 response in comp, FP are on at 3-level (below responder’s suit) and at 5-
level. This also applies after game tries.
 If we open 1♦ and later double their ♦ Q-bid, it shows good diamonds (could be
minimum) … doubling their major suit Q-bid shows good hand.
 1♦ (P) 1NT (2M) … 2NT is good-bad from opener.
 If opener reopens with double after WJO, responder’s 2NT = scrambling.
 After our invitational 2NT bid … new minors are forcing, old minors are NF.
 If we respond 1/1 and 4th hand overcalls, passed back around to responder, then:
2-level = NF, 3-level = NF. Also 1♦(P)1♥(X) P(1♠)2any=NF
 If opener makes support double, responder’s new suits on 2/3 level are NF.
 Jump raise of 1M opening in comp: 4 trumps, up to mixed strength.
 1♥ (3♠) 4♣ = artificial raise better than 4♥ (slam interest)
 1♥ (X,1/2/3♠,2♥) 4♥ (4♠) … double says “I want to bid 5♥”
 (1♦)-1♥-(1♠)-2♠-(3♣ )-X shows a SSGT.
 27

Interference after 1♦/♥/♠

They overcall with natural 1NT
Double Penalty
Bids That suit + a higher suit (not counting opener’s suit)
2NT Bigger 2-suiter (or limit raise +)
Raise Natural, not 2 suits
3-level Preemptive

They overcall with Michaels or Unusual 2NT

Double Sets up 1-round force, but not over their jumps
Pass, then double = takeout
If both suits are known, unusual vs unusual
If one suit is known:
Q-bid = limit+ in our suit
New suits = natural, forcing
Jumps = splinter in their suit, otherwise fit
NT = natural
 28

Interference after 1♥/♠

1♥-(1♠)-X both minors, or a 1NT response. Opener responds 1NT if he
would have passed a 1NT response (then with minors responder
makes a pass-or-correct bid), or else makes his normal rebid.

1♥-(1♠)-1NT transfer to 2♣

1♥-(1♠)-2♣ transfer to 2♦

1♥-(1♠)-2♦ raise to 2♥, constructive or better, follow-ups are ss game tries

1♥-(1♠)-2♥ trash raise to 2♥

1♥-(1♠)-2♠ values for raise to 2NT, no stopper

1♥-(1♠)-3♣ /♦ fit-showing

1♥-(1♠)-4♣ /♦ splinter

1♥- (2♣ ) - X transfer to 2♦, to play or natural rebids showing inv+ values.
1♥-(2♣)-X-2♦-2♥ show 2 hearts, invitational

If responder rebids 2♠ after the transfer, it cancels diamonds and

shows inv+ values with exactly 4 spades, forcing one round.
After 1♥-(2♣)-X-2♦-2♠, opener's possible rebids are:

2NT 11-13 HCP, no ♠ support, no stopper guarantee

3♣ 14-15 HCP, no ♠ support, no stopper
3♦ 11-15 HCP, no ♠ support, 5+ ♦
3♥
3♠ 11-13 HCP with ♠ support
3NT 14-15 HCP, no ♠ support, ♣ stopper
4♣/♦ 14-15 HCP fragment, 5-4-3-1 with ♠ support
4♠ 14-15 HCP with ♠ support, 5-4-2-2

2♦ raise to 2♥, 3+ card support. Responder may pass or take another

(natural) call with inv+ values.

2♥ transfer to 2♠, 5+ cards. Again, responder passes or takes a

natural stronger action.

2♠ values for a 2NT call without a stopper, or values for 3NT but
would like to give opener a chance to declare the hand.

Higher bids by responder are normal. 3♣ would presumably guarantee 4-card support.
 29
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1♥- (2♦) - X transfer/raise to 2♥, 3+ card support.

If responder rebids 2♠ after the transfer, it cancels hearts and

shows inv+ values with exactly 4 spades, forcing one round.
After 1♥-(2♦)-X-2♥-2♠, opener's possible rebids are:

2NT 11-13 HCP, no ♠ support, no ♦ stopper guarantee

3♣ 11-15 HCP, no ♠ support, 5+ ♣
3♦ 14-15 HCP, no ♠ support, no stopper
3♥
3♠ 11-13 HCP with ♠ support
3NT 14-15 HCP, no ♠ support, ♣ stopper
4X 14-15 HCP fragment, 5-4-3-1 with ♠ support
4♠ 14-15 HCP with ♠ support, 5-4-2-2

2♥ transfer (!) to 2♠, 5+ cards. Again, responder passes or takes a

natural stronger action.

2♠ transfer to 3♣ , 5+ cards. Opener bids 3♣ with a minimum hand

or 2NT to pre-accept, analogous to similar auction over a 1NT
opening.

2NT Natural

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1♥- (2♠) - X Like 1♥-(1♠)-X, this shows either a 2NT response or a

normal negative double. Opener bids 2NT if he would
have passed the 2NT response or chooses his most natural
rebid. 3♣ /♦ would show extra values, 3♥ would not.

2NT transfer to 3♣ , 5+ cards. Again, responder passes or takes

a natural stronger action.

3♣ transfer to 3♦, 5+ cards. Again, responder passes or takes

a natural stronger action.

3♦ constructive/invitational raise to 3♥, 3+ card support.

Responder may pass or take a natural stronger action.

3♥ non-constructive raise to 3♥

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 30

1♠- (2♣ ) - X transfer to 2♦, to play or natural rebids showing inv+ values.

If responder rebids 2♥ after the transfer, it cancels diamonds and

shows inv+ values with exactly 4 hearts, forcing one round.
After 1♠-(2♣)-X-2♦-2♥, opener's possible rebids are:

2♠
2NT 11-13 HCP, no ♥ support, no stopper guarantee
3♣ 14-15 HCP, no ♥ support, no ♣ stopper
3♦ 11-15 HCP, no ♥ support, 5+ ♦
3♥ 11-13 HCP with ♥ support
3♠
3NT 14-15 HCP, no support, ♣ stopper
4X 14-15 HCP fragment, 5-4-3-1 with support
4♥ 14-15 HCP with support, 5-4-2-2

2♦ transfer to 2♥, 5+ cards. Responder may pass or take another

(natural) call with inv+ values.

2♥ raise to 2♠, 3+ card support. Again, responder passes or takes a

natural stronger action.

2♠ (!) values for a 2NT call without a stopper, or values for 3NT but
would like to give opener a chance to declare the hand.

2NT Natural

Higher bids by responder are normal. 3♣ would presumably guarantee 4-card support.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1♠- (2♦) - X transfer to 2♥, to play or natural rebids showing inv+ values.

If responder rebids 2♠ after the transfer, it cancels long hearts and

shows inv+ values with exactly 4 hearts, forcing one round.
After 1♠-(2♦)-X-2♥-2♠, opener's possible rebids are:

2NT 11-13 HCP, no ♥ support, no stopper guarantee

3♣ 11-15 HCP, no ♥ support, 5+ ♣
3♦ 14-15 HCP, no ♥ support, no stopper
3♥ 11-13 HCP with ♥ support
3♠
3NT 14-15 HCP, no ♥ support, ♣ stopper
4♣/♦ 14-15 HCP fragment, 5-4-3-1 with ♥ support
4♥ 14-15 HCP with ♥ support, 5-4-2-2
 31

2♥ raise to 2♠, 3+ card support. Again, responder passes or takes a

natural stronger action.

2♠ transfer to 3♣ , 5+ cards. Opener bids 3♣ with a minimum hand

or 2NT to pre-accept, analogous to similar auction over a 1NT
opening.

2NT Natural

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1♠- (2♥) - X transfer/raise to 2♠, 3+ card support. If responder bids 2NT

after the transfer, it cancels the support (!) and shows 2-3-4-4
or 2-4-(3-4) inv+ values with no ♥ stopper.

2♠ transfer to 3♣ , 5+ cards. Opener bids 3♣ with a minimum hand

or 2NT to pre-accept, analogous to similar auction over a 1NT
opening.

2NT Natural

3♣ transfer to 3♦, 5+ cards. Again, responder passes or takes a

natural stronger action.
 32

Doubles and Redoubles

 If they Q-bid our suit and it is clearly their hand, then double says to lead a
different suit. Our double to deny a lead is only by the person who has first
introduced the suit.
 If we jump after our takeout double is redoubled or bid over, it’s weak.
 Redouble of 3NT is always business. (exception: if we overcall 3NT over 3-level
opening and it’s doubled, normal runouts i.e. XX = 1 suit)
 Redoubles in the middle of our Precision asking sequences are an attempt to play
there.
 Rosenkranz redoubles are mandatory on the 1-level unless you decide to raise.
Optional on 2-level. Must alert failure to XX on 1-level. Shows A or K.
 Double of 3NT usually for dummy’s suit. It is assumed we will try to lead 3rd
hand’s suit, so double should steer leader away. However, it could just mean
“they’re dead, lead normally”.
 When we get doubled in 1♦, it is “last man’s” job to run.
 Pulling a 3-level double to 3NT is playable unless puller cannot logically have
enough to make.
 Redouble of their double after 1M-2M does not force us to the 3-level if we’ve
already stopped in 2 of our suit.
 If opener doubles after they’ve overcalled and raised it’s pure takeout, but 2NT is
also takeout. Responder’s doubles are usually “cards” and responder’s 2NT is
takeout. But 1X (any) 1NT and responder later doubles = cards/penalty.
 Negative and responsive doubles after 1♦opening through 4♦ only
 (1m)-2m[Majors]-(3m)-X = “responsive” Michaels bidder cannot pass,
intending to show a good raise to 4M at next turn.
 33

Support Doubles and Redoubles

Through and including 3 of our major.

If they bid 2 of our major:

Double = penalty if natural
Double = 3+ card support if Q-bid

After a support double, responder’s actions (except Q-bid) are never forcing … a new
suit is an attempt to play there.

Support doubles are not on when responder negative doubles.

Misc Auctions

(1♥) P (P) X 1♥ (X) P (1♠)

(2♥) X Penalty P (P) 1NT Minors

1♠ (P) 2♠ (X)
XX Forcing to double or 3♠ (but not if we’ve passes 2♠ response)

(1♦) P (1M) P (2♥) P (3♥) P

(1NT) P (P) X Penalty (P) X Penalty or light
takeout

(1♥) P (1any) X
(2♥) X Penalty

1NT (2suit) X (P) 1♦ (1♥) 1♠ (2♥)

2NT Natural P (P) X (P) Now 2NT = natural

1any (X) P (any bid)

P (P) X Penalty … double is also penalty if they overcalled

General rule: opener’s 2NT is natural, potentially weak hand’s 2NT is takeout.

If we respond in comp, and then reopen(non-jump), it is NF. Must double or cuebid to

force (even if they preempt and we reopen on high level).
 34

Passed Hand Actions

Passed Hand after 1♦
Jumps = fits (can pass a jump to a major … promises 5+)

Passed Hand after 1M

Never Bergen by PH, always Bergen by UPH even if they double
They Double All single jumps = fit, must play in major opened
2NT is limit raise
2-level is same as by UPH
Suit/Lead applies (1NT is clubs, not transfer to Drury)
They Overcall same as by UPH
They Pass Single jump as over double
2NT = minors
3Raise = semi-preemptive, usually 5 cards
Double jumps = splinters
2Raise still constructive, 3 or 4 trumps

Drury: 2♣ = 1-Way Reverse Drury

2NT by opener asks for natural shortness
If opener shows minimum, 2NT by responder asks for natural shortness
If opener doesn’t show minimum, 2NT by responder is natural NF
No artificial game tries
If Drury bidder continues over signoff suit bids are natural s.s. game tries
 35

1NT (10-13)
Try to avoid opening 1NT with a 5-card major

2♣ NF Stayman With some simple game forcing hands, we might use 2♣ if it is less
likely to be doubled than 2♦.
2♦ No major
2M Invitational
3m Invitational with a major
3M Invitational (probably w/4 in other major)
2♦ GF Stayman

2♥
4 hearts 2♠=relay for additional distribution
2♠ 4 spades, denies hearts 2NT=relay for additional distribution
2NT no 4-card M or 5-card m 3♣ =relay for additional distribution
3♣ 5332 hand with 5 clubs 3♦=relay for short suit (natural)
3♦ 5332 hand with 5 diamonds 3♥=relay for short suit (natural)
3♥ 2=2=4=5 3♠= CRASH for Aces
3♠ 2=2=5=4 3NT is to play, 4♣ =CRASH For Aces

After 1NT-2♦-2♥-2♠

2NT 4 spades 3♣ =relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)

3♣ 4 clubs 3♦=relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♦ 4 diamonds 3♥ =relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♥ 3=4=3=3 3♠=CRASH
3♠ 2=4=2=5 3NT is to play; 4♣ =CRASH
3NT 2=4=5=2 4♣ =CRASH

After 1NT-2♦-2♠-2NT

3♣ 4 clubs 3♦=relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)

3♦ 4 diamonds 3♥ =relay for residual (steps 2-3 / 3-2)
3♥ 4=3=3=3 3♠ =CRASH
3♠ 4=2=2=5 3NT is to play; 4♣ =CRASH
3NT 4=2=5=2 4♣ =CRASH

After 1NT-2♦-2NT-3♣

3♦ 3=3=4=3 3♥ =CRASH
3♥ 2=3=4=4 3♠ =CRASH
3♠ 3=2=4=4 3NT is to play; 4♣ is CRASH
 36
3NT 3=3=3=4 4♣ =CRASH

1NT (10-13)

2M To play, could be semi-psychic, opener should try not to raise.

Zia suggests never bid 2♥ unless ready to hear opps bid 2♠
2NT Invitational, any 6-card suit (opener bids lowest rejection)
3X To play
4♣ Gerber
4♦/♥ Texas (on through 3♣ overcall only)

Interference over 10-13 NT

After 1N (penalty X), pass forces XX to show cheapest of 2 suits (or to play).
Direct bids are natural
XX = business, sets up FP, but responder’s new suit is NF
2NT = 5-5 any 2 suits
1N (P) P (X) P (P) … now DONT style for responder’s bids and XX

All jumps to 3-level in comp are Rubensohl

After 1NT (bid) … Rubensohl is on same as strong

After non-Landy 2♣ overcall, double is Stayman but 2♦ is to play.
After non-penalty X, systems on
After 3-level overcall, our 3-level bid is GF
If they balance, opener’s double is penalty, cheapest bid from responder is takeout and
double is penalty.
 37
+
1NT (13 -16)
13+ means a 5-card minor suit if 13 HCP
2♣ Stayman
2♦ No major
2♥ P/C (weak with both majors (4-4), (4-5) or (5-5)
2♠ weak with exactly 4 hearts and at least 5 spades
2NT Invitational, may or may not have a 4-card major
3♣ GF, 4-card major longer clubs
3♦ GF, 4-card major longer diamonds
3M Smolen
4♣ Gerber
4♦/♥ Discuss
5♣ and higher Exclusion RKC in ♦
2♥ 4 or 5♥, may have 4♠
2♠ 4 spades, invitational
2NT Invitational, denies 4 spades
3♣ GF 4♠ and 6+♣
3♦ GF, 4 spades and 6+ diamonds
3♥ Invitational
3♠ Slam try in ♥ with unspecified shortness;
3NT asks (do not show voids):
4♣ = clubs, 4♦ = diamonds, 4♥ = spades
4♣ RKC Gerber
4♦ Balanced slam try in ♥

2♠ 4 or 5♠, denies 4♥
2NT Invitational, may or may not have 4 hearts
3♣ GF, 4 hearts with longer clubs
3♦ This and all higher bids are same as over 2♥ response
Over 3♥ showing shortness, there is room to show voids
2♦ Transfer to ♥
2♥ Opener can super-accept with 4 hearts and maximum
2♠ 5-5 invitational
3m Natural GF (but NF by PH or after 1♣ -1♦)
Jump to 4M = fast arrival (weaker)
3♠/4m Splinter
4♥ Balanced slam try, 6+♥
4NT Balanced slam try
2♠/3m Super-accept with a worthless doubleton in the suit
 38
+
1NT (13 -16)
2♥ Transfer to ♠… same structure as 2♦ above
Transfer followed by 3♥ is 5-5 GF
Transfer followed by 4♥ is splinter

Note: 1NT-2♦-2♥-4♠/5m is Exclusion RKC

1NT-4♦-4♥ … 4♠ is RKC
4NT and higher are SPL RLY void slam tries

2♠ Transfer to ♣ … opener bids 2NT to accept, 3♣ to deny

Responder’s new suits are shortness with slam interest

2NT Transfer to ♦ … opener bids 2NT to accept, 3♣ to deny

Responder’s new suits are shortness with slam interest

3♣ Both minors , at least 5-5, weak

3♦ Both minors, at least 5-5, GF

3♥ GF Splinter, may have 4♠
Opener bids 3♠ with 4 of them, responder pulls to 3NT w/o spades or Q-bids 4m
Opener’s jump to 4♠ promises 5 spades
Try not to splinter with slam interest or stiff AKQ

3♠ GF Splinter, must have 4♥

If opener bids 3NT, then responder’s 4m = natural
Opener’s 4m = natural … be wary about jumping

4♣ Gerber
4♦/♥ Texas transfers, initiates FP.
If responder bids on at 5-level it is a void slam try
 39

1NT (13+-16)
 Weissberger by PH: 1NT-2♣ -2♦-3♦ is 5-5 majors invitational. So, transfer to ♠
and then 3♥ by PH is forcing. Transfer to major and then 3m by PH is NF.
 If they double Stayman, fast denies a club stopper. Slow following XX (re-ask)
shows stopper. Opener’s direct XX is penalty. If we overcalled a 1C opening
earlier, we have a stopper, so a direct 2♦ shows 5♦.
 If they double Transfer: XX = attempt to play (by opener only)
Pass = <3 trumps, then:
Responder’s bid of his suit = invitational
XX by responder is retransfer (then new suit is F)
Direct actions (no retransfer) are NF
Acceptance = 3 trumps
Other bids = normal meaning

 If they double a re-transfer: redouble shows ace, pass shows king, accepting
transfer shows neither.
 If they overcall Stayman: opener bids 2NT with a stopper in their suit or
passes without.
 40

Interference against our Strong 1NT

 No negative doubles
 Opener tries hard to reopen with any strength and weak doubleton in their suit
 If they balance (natural), opener’s X is penalty; responder’s X is 3 with cards
 3-level bids forcing after 3-level jump overcall
 1NT (3m) 4m = majors
 Gerber in comp is a jump to 4♣ or 5♣
 Texas in comp through and including 3♣ overcall (sets up FP)
 If they artificial Double we totally ignore it. Systems on; XX sets up 1-round
force through 2♠. All subsequent doubles are penalty.
 If they penalty double responder’s 2-level bids are natural and pass forces
redouble, then responders bids are DON’T (i.e. XX=one-suit, suit=that and
higher)
 If they bid 2♣ (no matter what it means – except Landy) … double = Stayman,
higher bids FOC.
 If they bid 2♣ or 2♦ for majors:
Pass, then balancing double = takeout
Dbl = cards, opener is “forced”. Later doubles are penalty
2M = tying GF in minor
2NT = Lebensohl to get out in 3m, or followed by 3M to show stopper
3m = natural, invitational
3M = shortness
2♦ = natural, NF

Over any other suit interference at the two-level, Rubensohl applies.

Rubensohl – 2NT is a relay to 3C starting a weak takeout.

Direct 3-level bids are x-fers showing suit above inv+
Transfer to their known 4+ card suit = inv+ in unbid major(s)
3♠=transfer to NT, "Help" bid. No stopper in the enemy suit.
Direct 3NT shows a stopper in their suit.
2NT then a cuebid shows the other 4-card major and no stopper.
 41

Strong 2NT Auctions

Jacoby followed by 4 of a new suit above trump = Excl. RKC

Jacoby followed by 4NT above trump = Quantitative
Texas followed by one over = RKC, other bids = natural void slam try
Transfer to their major after our 2NT overcall = inv in other major

Jacoby followed by 4m promises slam interest:

Opener’s 4NT or return to either suit is NF
Opener’s step 1 (of remaining bids) is RKC in minor, then one over for kings
Opener’s step 2 (of remaining bids) is RKC in major, then one over for kings
 42

2♣
When in doubt, open 1♣with a hand on the strong side, as responder is more likely to
pass the 2♣ opening than any other (Rigal). “Lean towards 10 HCP, not 16” (B-C).
Shows 6 cards, but could often have 5 in 3rd seat.

2♦ Artificial inquiry (responder’s later 3M = forcing)

2♥/♠ Natural 1RF; if slammish, 5-3-3-2 or 5-4-2-2
2NT Relay to 3♣, to play, or slammish 2-suiter
3♣ Relay to 3♦, to play or slammish one-suiter
3♦/♥/♠ Invitational (by PH or in comp, fit showing)
4♣ Preemptive
4♦ RKC
4♥/♠ To play, never promises fit

IF THEY DOUBLE 2♣
XX They are in trouble (FP)
2♦ Still artificial ask
2M Natural, forcing
2NT Good raise (suit/lead)
3♣ Raise, could be very light
3X Fit-showing
4♣ Preemptive
4M To play
 43

2♣ -2♦
2♦ Artificial ask … if followed by 3♣ = NF
If followed by 4♣ =GF except after 2♣ -2♦-3♦

2♥ Any strength, 4-card major

2♠ Asks
2NT 4♥, minimum
3♣ =NF
3♦=♥ Jack ask (natural cuebid followups)
3♥=NF
3♠=Natural, forcing
3♣ 4♠, minimum
3♦=♠ Jack ask (natural cuebid followups)
3♥=Natural, forcing
3♠=NF
3♦ 4♥, maximum
3♥=♥ Jack ask (natural cuebid followups)
3♠=Natural, forcing
3♥ 4♠, maximum
3♠=♠ Jack ask (natural cuebid followups)
2♠ Maximum, no major, shortness somewhere
2NT Asks, natural responses (GF)
3♣ NF (opener’s continuations show shortness)
2NT Maximum, balanced, usually 2 stoppers
3♣ NF
3♦ Stopper ask: 3♥=♦+♥, 3♠=♦+♠, 3NT=♥+♠ or all 3 suits
3♣ Minimum, no major
3♦ Stopper ask natural responses
3♦ Natural, 6+♣ , 4+♦ (Opener’s 4♦= ♣ RKC)
3♥ Natural, 6+♣ , 5+♥
3♠ Sets ♥ as trumps, so 4♠=excl. RKC
4♣ F
4♦ ♣ RKC
3♠ Artificial, solid ♣
3NT 6+♣ , 5+♠
4♣ F
4♦ ♣ RKC
4♥ Sets ♠ as trump

2♣ -2♥/♠ Natural 1RF; if slammish, 5-3-3-2 or 5-4-2-2

2NT Natural, non-minimum, NF
3♣ Minimum; 2♣ -2♠-3♣ -3♥ is 5+/5+ inv
 44
3♦or 3Raise NF
3NT Stronger than 2NT (4♣ =NF, 4♦= ♣ RKC)
4♣ Natural, extras, NF
4Raise Stronger than 3Raise; can splinter with 3 trumps
2♣ -2NT Relay to 3♣ , after which
Pass To play
3♦ ♦+♥ 5-5 GF
3♥ ♦+♠ 5-5 GF
3♠ ♥+♠ 5-5 GF
Follow-up: no 4♣ /4♦ RKC

2♣ -3♣ Relay to 3♦, after which

Pass To play
3M Natural, GF 6+, can play in 3NT
Opener’s 4♦ = good raise
3NT/4♣ /4♦ Diamonds, GF

Interference
If they double after 2♣ -2♦, XX ix business, otherwise system on
If they bid a suit over any asks, P=1st step, X=business, then step on up
If they double over asks, XX= business, pass = S1, etc.
Our free bid in comp = 1-round force on 2-level, GF on 3-level
If we make negative double, opener’s 2NT could be minimum with a stopper
2♣ -(2♥)-4♦ is splinter

Passed Hand
2♦ As above
2M Natural, NF
2NT Natural
3♣ NF
3X Fit, decent hand
 45

2♦
In 1st,2nd,4th seat: 3-suiter with short ♦; in 3rd seat, Weak 2

2♥ 3+♥, NF, opener must pull with only 3♥

2♠/3♣ Signoff (opener can raise 2♠ to 3♠ via 3♣ , showing 4-5 in blacks)
3♦ Natural, invitational, 6+♦
3M Forcing, 4+, forces 3NT opposite 3 or raise opposite 4
Then 4C/4D RKC over 3NT or RKC Kickback over any other.
3NT To play
2NT Asking
3♣ All minimums, after which 3♦ re-asks
3♥ 3-4-1-5
3♠ 4-3-1-5
3NT 4-4-1-4
4♣ 4-4-0-5; then 4♣ /4♦ RKC with 4♦ relay; i.e. stop bid
3♦ Non-minimum 4-4-1-4
3♥ and higher As above, but non-minimum (3NT = stiff honor)

After the 3♣ response to 2NT, all bids other than 3♦are NF. No 4♣ /4♦ RKC.
After the 3♦ re-ask and answer on 3-level (3-4-1-5 or 4-3-1-5), we play 4♣ /4♦ RKC.
After a 3♦ response, 3M = GF. But RKC is on 4-level.
After a 3M response, we always play 4♣ /4♦ RKC.
Over double, pass = diamonds, playable.
XX = they are in trouble, willing to play 2♦XX, sets up FP.
Other bids = same as if no double
If 2♦ opener is on lead, none of the suits are “his” as bid suits
2♦-(P)-2NT-(3♦)... then pass shows all minimums and X by responder is a re-ask.
Double by opener replaces 3♦bid.
 46

Weak 2- Bids
Theory: Do not open a weak two with trash in 1st/2nd seat. Three-level preempt can be
real garbage if NV. Being 6-4 does not determine whether it’s a 2- or 3- level opener; the
strength does. Good hands don’t open 3 when NV.

Jump response = forcing if white (when red, new suits forcing).

4♣ immediate or delayed is preempt keycard

All new suits NF if White, forcing if Red, but, all new suits forcing over 3+ level.

2♥-3♠ Forcing if White, invitational if Red.

2NT asks feature (A/K with at least a middling hand), followed by next step (not NT or
suit opened) asks for shortness:
trump suit = no short; otherwise, natural shortness
2♥-2NT-3♥-3♠ asks
2NT followed by 4♣ = preempt keycard

If they double, 2NT and higher bids are Suit/Lead

XX shows good hand, sort of feature ask not forcing pass
If they bid after XX, opener passes with minimum, or double shows 2+ with cards

2M-2NT-3NT Solid suit

2NT, then 3NT by responder gives choice.

Direct 3NT is bar bid.
 47

Higher Preempts
After a 3-level preempt and response, a new-suit rebid by opener shows shortness with
support for responder's suit. Ex: 3D-3S-4C.
3C-3D asks for a 3-card major.
4NT over a preempt is plain Blackwood.
3NT = 4 of a minor opening in 1st/2nd seat … any minor suit bid is P/C
4M = to play
4NT = preempt keycard
Over double Pass is to play opposite ace or king
Redouble is business
Bids are all pass/correct

3NT = gambling in 3rd/4th seat with no restrictions … never run from this

4♣ = good 4♥ opening
4♦ = good 4♠ opening
In between step shows slam interest
One over trump suit is RKC
Must play in opener’s suit
NAMYATS sets up forcing pass
Other bids = asking for control (none, 2nd, 1st) (exception to 5♣ rule)
Ask with substitution (4♣-4NT = ♠ ask)

After double: in-between bid is still slam interest

otherwise, pass or bid 4M depending on which hand should declare
redouble = 5-level interest (ex Axx Axx xxxxx xx)

We play above asking bids over 4M opening – can’t play in new suit
Do not play above asking bids after our 4M overcall – new suit is natural cuebid/slam try
(But one over is still RKC)

4NT-5NT is pick-a-slam
 48

Suit/Lead
A) On after 1M opener gets doubled:
1♠ over 1♥ = natural
1NT = ♣
2♣ = ♦
through 2 of suit (raise = garbage, one under = good raise, maybe 3 cards and
limit +)

On after our weak two bids are doubled (or 2♥ with 2♠ overcall)
2M (X) XX = any good hand
Raise via one under = invitational

B) 3♥ (3♠) 3NT = natural, playable

C) 3M (X) 3NT = Suit/Lead (♣ ) … must XX with good hand

 49

Forcing Passes
Vulnerability is irrelevant

If we are in GF auction then all passes are forcing

If we have already bid a game, then:

If the game bid was a non-jump bid in competition, we are never in a force

Examples: (4C)-4H-(5C)-P [not forcing]

1D-(1H)-X-(4H)-4S-(5H)-P [not forcing]
If the game was a jump bid, or bid after an opponent’s pass, we are in a force
unless the bid was a preemptive bid or the partner of the bidder has shown a
weak hand

Examples: (3C)-4H-(5C)-P [forcing]

1H-(1S)-2H-(2S)-4H-(4S)-P [not forcing, 2H was weak]
(1S)-4H-(4S)-P [not forcing, 4H was preemptive]
2H-(2S)-4H-(4S)-P [not forcing, opening was weak two]

If we have not bid a game yet, then:

If opponents jump to 5M and we are in the auction, we are in a force

Example: (3H)-3S-(5H)-P [forcing]

If the opponents bid 5m, we are in a force only if we have shown game
invitational values

Example: (3C)-3S-(5C)-P [not forcing]

If the opponents bid to 4M, we are in a force only if we have shown game
invitational values and have established a fit

If the opponents bid to below 4M, but above 3 of our primary suit, we are never in
a force

Otherwise, passes are forcing if we have shown game invitational strength but not
forcing if we have not shown game invitational strength

Examples: 1H-(2D)-X-(3D)-P [not forcing]

1H-X-XX-(3D)-P [forcing]
 50

Opps Open in a Suit

We Takeout Double

 Q-bid by advancer is forcing to 2NT or suit agreement (on by PH). After

advancer Q-bids, his new suits are forcing, and his raise is invitational only
 Jumps to 4NT after they preempt and we double are natural. Must Q-bid first to
ask for aces.
 Our 3NT when it can’t possibly be our hand suggests a save – a raise is not save-
suggestive.
 If we takeout double and then raise from 1 to 2 it doesn’t promise extras. Raise
from 2 to 3 in comp not extras if Q-bid was available and RHO bid.
 New minor by doubler after NT response is NF … new major is extras but NF
 If we takeout double and respond with a jump, the doubler’s new suit is GF
 If we takeout double and convert a non-jump in clubs to diamonds, then it is NF
(ELCD). But if you takeout double and convert a free bid or jump bid in clubs to
diamonds then it is forcing with extras.
 (1♦)-X-(2♣)-2♦ is a Q-bid
 After our takeout double we play responsive doubles in all suits. If responder to
the takeout double bids their responder’s suit, it is natural. If he bids opener’s
suit, it is a Q-bid.
 If takeout doubler acts after a jump response or a free bid, then all bids are forcing
(1NT/2NT promise extras), but …
 Doubler’s non-jump NT after responder’s Q-bid does not promise extras
 (1M) X (2M) 2NT = natural, X = responsive
 (1any) X (2any) Jump = extras
 (P) P (1♣ ) X
(1NT) ? X=Penalty, 2C=pick a major invite, 3D = preemptive
 51

Opps Open in a Suit

We Overcall

 (1M) bid (2M) … 2NT = natural and X = responsive

 If we have 2 Q-bids, cheaper one shows less
 We overcall and they respond 1NT or 2NT … double by advancer is responsive
 Jump Q = mixed raise
 Overcaller’s repeat of his suit on the 2-level does not necessarily promise more
than a WJO
 If we Q-bid and they double, return to suit is weakest
 New suit is forcing by UPH.
 Jump response to overcall: if their next hand passes, then jumps to next level are
forcing. (Jumps to 2 levels higher are fit-showing). If their next hand bids, then
jumps show fit.
 Direct Michaels Q-bid = 2 highest unbid suits. Michaels is also on if they open
one of a suit and respond 1NT. Balancing 3♣ is natural and intermediate.
 Sandwich 1NT always for 2 unbid. We are never showing their minor even over
short club or diamond.
 Passed hand can never show a new suit at the 3-level … it is always forcing with
a fit.
 If they open weak 2, passed around to our balance, then advancer’s 3-level bids
all promise a fit and are forcing (treat advancer as PH)

Ruben’s advances apply. All bids between/including the cue-bid of their suit
and one less than our suit are transfers. Transfer to our suit shows at least a
good raise (about 3 cover cards). Transfer followed by a bid of our suit
shows 5+ cards in the suit transferred to and two-card support. Ruben’s
advances also apply when we have overcalled in the balancing position and
opener passes.
 52

Opps Open in a Suit

Other

 Jump to 2NT in balancing seat = 18-20 … front of card (2NT responses)

including runouts if doubled.
 FOC after 1NT in the balancing seat, including runouts if doubled.
 Our splinter or fit-showing jump after overcall does not set up forcing pass
 If they open 1m and overcalling seat passes, then later bids that minor, it’s natural
 If they make weak jump response, double = takeout; 2NT = natural
 They open and raise: try to “balance in direct seat” … doesn’t promise HCP, just
shape. 2NT overcalls can show any two suits.
 2NT after our WJO asks naturally for shortness (but after balancing JO, it’s
natural)
 If we overcall 4M, jump or not, we can’t play in a new suit. New suit is a natural
cuebid … except 1 over is RKC.
 If we overcall 1NT, responder’s x-fer into their major is invitational in the other
major (not on if we’ve opened 1C).
 (1D) P (1NT) P (P) D = Penalty, 2D = natural
 (1D) X (1NT) 2D = majors, could be very light, no rebid promised.
 Cuebids of their minor in competition are natural if it is conceivable they might be
natural … however, two of their minor after an overcall is always a cuebid.
 If we overcall their opening, overcaller’s cuebid is never natural, even if advancer
bid 1NT. Only exception: if their 1D opening was Precision or could have been
shorter than 3.
 They open, we preempt, they bid (or raise) … advancer’s double is penalty.
 Over our Michaels, if they double:
Pass = pick a suit (equal length)
XX = Relay to cheapest suit (showing preference with no high honor)
Direct bid of suit = Queen or better
This applies only when we are scrambling to 2 known suits

Jump responses are preemptive

 53

They Open “Strong” 1NT

Vs. all “strong” NT (top of range is 15+) and strong 2NT:

(By PH or UPH)
Double = 1 suit (if spades, good hand) (if they bid, double asks for our suit if 2♥
or lower was their bid)
All other bids show that suit plus a higher suit
2NT = big major/minor 2-suiter
3NT = big hand, both majors

In response to 2♠ overcall, 2NT = good raise, new suits are also raises with values

They open 1NT and we’ve made a 2-suited overcall … responder’s new non-touching
suit is to play (unless he is PH). Responder’s double at any level asks for other suit.
Responder’s bids are non-convertible.

If opener doubles and then shows his suit, advancer’s new suit bids are game try fits, and
2NT is a good raise.

Over DONT overcalls, 2NT is asking:

After 2♣ overcall and 2NT ask,
3♣ = minimum, then 3♦ is P/C
3X = that suit, maximum
After 2♦ overcall and 2NT ask,
3♣ = minimum with ♥
3♦ = minimum with ♠
3M = that suit, maximum
After 2♥ overcall and 2NT ask,
3♣ = minimum, longer/better ♥
3♦ = minimum, longer/better ♠
3M = maximum, longer/better in that suit

(1N)-P-(P)-2♦-(P)-3♣ Splinter in support of either major

 54

They Open “Weak” 1NT

Vs. all “weak” NT (top of range is <15)
Cappeletti
(1N)-2M-(P)-2N asks for overcaller's range. If overcaller has less than solid
opening values, he rebids his minor. Otherwise, he makes his most descriptive higher
call. (1N)-2M-(P)-3C is P/C.

Double of their response = cards

Jump overcall after (1NT) P (bid) is intermediate
2NT by advancer is natural

On in all seats, but by a passed hand we play DON’T

(1NT) X (P) now FOC – but opener can reject transfers or bid 2NT with 17-19 (then
FOC) … doubler’s new suit jump after a transfer is forcing.
Advancer’s direct bids could be yarboroughs … 2♣ = any scramble, semi-natural
Transfer and new 3-level suit = NF … pass=values
If their pass forces redouble, then our pass=values and sets up penalty doubles
If they business redouble, DONT bids by advancer and pass forces 2♣ with
1-suiter
All jumps in competition after we have doubled are forcing

After (1NT) X (any): X by either side is penalty … other actions are FOC but pass is
forcing below 2♠.

(1NT) P (any) 2NT shows strong NT, FOC.

Discuss Meckwell version of Cappelletti

 55

They Open Natural Preempt

These are also on where applicable over (2X) P (2NT)

Vs. 2♦
2NT = 15+ to 18 (FOC; 2NT responses)
3♦ = majors (not GF) … 4♣/4♦ tying slam try raises
3M = intermediate NF (FP if they bid to 5-level) (3M=weak over 11-15)
3NT = to play … 4♦/4♥ transfers, 4♠ natural slam invite
4♣ = ♣+major, GF … 4♦ asks major, 4M = own suit
4♦ = majors, good hand
4NT = natural, stronger than 3NT

Vs. 2♥
2NT = 15+ to 18 (FOC) … x-fer to their major = inv in other major
3♥ = asks for stopper (long minor)
3♠ = intermediate
3NT = to play … 4♥ transfer, 4♠ natural slam invite
4♣ = ♣+♠, GF … 4♦ = good ♠, 4♥ = good ♣
4♦ = ♦+♠, GF … 4♥ = good ♠, 5♣ = good ♦
4♥ = minors GF
4NT = natural, stronger than 3NT

Vs. 2♠
2NT = 15+ to 18 (FOC) … x-fer to their major = inv in other major
3♠ = asks for stopper (long minor)
3NT = to play … 4♦ transfer, 4♥ natural slam invite
4♣ = ♣+♥, GF
4♦ = ♦+♥, GF
4♠ = minors GF
4NT = natural, stronger than 3NT

Cuebids, 4m jumps all set up forcing pass except (2♦)-3♦.

Vs. 2♣ Precision, 4♦=Leaping Michaels, i.e. diamonds + Major
Balancing 2NT by our passed hand is always takeout

Forcing pass if their PH jumps to game over 3rd seat preempt

(3♣) X (5♣) by their UPH is never a forcing pass

After 3NT overcall: 4♣ asks:

4♦ = minimum 1-suiter
4♥ = maximum 1-suiter
4♠ = minimum balanced
4NT = maximum balanced
 56

They Preempt – More

They open 3♣
4♣ = both majors … 4♦ = pick a major
4♦ = ♦+M, GF … 4♥ = P/C … also on in balancing seat
4NT = natural

They open 3♦
4♣ = natural
4♦ = any 2 suits
4NT = natural

They open 3M
4m = natural
4Qbid = any 2 suits
4NT = natural

They open 4♠
4NT = takeout
X = takeout, but flatter

 Leaping Michaels must be a jump to 4m (on vs. 2♣ intermediate)

 Vs. weak 2’s we play Lebensohl in all seats and by PH, but not if we are both PH
(then 2NT is scrambling). Fast 3NT shows doubt (1 stopper). Slow Q-bid shows
3NT bid with 4 cards in other major(s).
 Jump to 3M after takeout double is invitational with 5 cards.
 (2M) X (XX) … our pass says nothing, 2NT is running with 2 suits.
 57

They Make Artificial Bid

Vs. Big Club: CRASH (X=Color; 1♦=Rank; 1NT= SHape)
Advancer bids notrump (or redoubles) with his own single-suiter … all other calls
are P/C.

(1♣) P (1♦) CRASH still on using X, 1NT, 2♣

(1♣) P (1M) CRASH still on using X, 1NT, 2♣ when 1M is artificial

(1♣) P (1M natural) X = takeout

1NT = minors

(1♣) P (1NT) DONT bids

(1♣) P (2X) X = takeout if natural, that suit if artificial

2NT = any 2 suiter

If they double or redouble our CRASH bid

Pass = attempt to play there
Bids = P/C
Redouble or NT = 1-suiter

Passing then bidding over 1♣ shows good hand (except in OBAR situations).

After our natural 1-level bid, 1NT = Q-bid

After our natural 2-level bid, 2NT asks for shortness

If they open an either/or club (could be strong), treat as natural

If they bid 1♣-1♦-1NT, we use DONT in both positions, but X is penalty.

Versus strong artificial 2♣, we use CRASH direct and over 2♦ response

Versus Flannery
Double = cards
2♥ = 3-suit takeout
2♠ = natural
2NT = natural, playing tricks, over this 3m=NF
3m = natural
 58

They Make Artificial Bid

Vs. Precision 2♦
Double = cards (13-15 or 19+)
2NT = 16-18

Vs. Multi 2♦
Double = 13-15 (Jump by advancer after their responder acts is GF)
2M = natural
All other bids = natural (FOC after 2NT overcall)
If we overcall in a major, bid of other major is Q-bid
Jump to 3M = good hand, natural, NF
Balancing doubles are light takeout
(2♦) X (2M) X = cards
(2♦) X (2M) 2NT = minors
(2♦) P (2M) X = penalty OR takeout … also applies if they bid 3M or 4M

Vs. Other Artificial Preempts

Over multiple meaning bids, double is generally cards (13-15 or 19+)
2NT is natural (16-18) FOC
All subsequent doubles by either are cards with 2+ in suit doubled

Vs. 2♠ Random Preempt

3♣ = majors
3♦/♥ = transfer
3♠ = long minor
if they respond 2NT, same system
if they respond 3♣ … 3♦= majors

Vs. Splinters
Double by us asks for lead of highest suit
BUT if only 1 other suit in picture it asks for lead of splinter suit
Double of 3♠ splinter suggests sacrifice, if we had no chance to mention spades
(1♠) 2♥ (4♥) X = save suggest
Double of artificial shortness-showing bid asks for lead of that suit

Vs. Their 4M Opening

Double = takeout
4NT = any 2-suiter

Vs. NAMYATS
Double = light takeout
Pass then double = stronger takeout
Q-bid = 2-suit takeout
 59

They Make Artificial Bid

Vs. Drury and other artificial raises
Double = the artificial suit
Q-bid, or pass then double = takeout

Vs. Precision Diamond

Treat as natural, with two exceptions:
(1♦) P (1M) … our double is takeout of major
(1♦) 1any (1NT) … diamond bids from either side are natural
 60

Slam Conventions
Kickback RKC Note: Using 1430 Responses

General: try to cuebid to set the suit before bidding kickback, or it may be taken as
natural or something else.

There are never two trump suits.

Keycard IF AND ONLY IF:
Suit is bid and raised
Jump to one-over (onto 4-level)
Support has been implied (preference, guaranteed 8-card fit)
We have introduced suit for 1st time at 4-level
We takeout double and then bid 4NT over partner’s response

When hearts are agreed, 4♠ is always kickback and 4NT is a spade cue-bid. This applies
to (1m)-2m-(3m)-4m-4H-4S.

In auctions involving hearts and diamonds, 4D is RKC for diamonds and 4H is natural.

If we are on 3-level, with agreed trump suit, jump to 4NT is never ace asking … must Q-
bid and then bid 4NT. Immediate jump to 4NT is quant.

If one player voluntarily bypasses BW, he can no longer bid BW … his BW sounding
bids become replacement cuebids or D-I.

Responder can never bid past 6NT on his own.

Six of unplayable suit after KCB asks for 3rd round control for grand.

K asks, Q asks: return to trump suit denies.

Fake queen ask, followed by one over, is very serious try for seven (failure to fake ask for
queen is just a “courtesy” try)

With clubs trump, after 4♦ Kickback, 4NT is a queen ask unless there is another
available.

Over (0,1)/(3,4) responses and signoff, responder must bid on with 3 or 4 (except 2NT
opening).

If responder has a void, he may only show it if Blackwooder will know where it is.
He shows a void by making his normal response 1 level higher … next step is then an
invitation to 7.

Do not treat singletons as kings when responding to KB.

When they double 4NT: XX = business

Pass = extras, then XX re-asks
Bids = normal meanings, but no extras
 61

Slam Conventions
After NT, in competition, 4♣ is Gerber if they bid 2NT or lower, otherwise 5♣ is Gerber.

Preempt Keycard
4♣ after preempts except 4♦after 3♣, 4NT after 3NT.
STEP 1 0 keycards
STEP 2 1 keycard, no trump queen
STEP 3 1 keycard, trump queen
STEP 4 2 keycards, no trump queen
STEP 5 2 keycards, trump queen
After which one over the trump suit is “back on track” for king ask.
Not on in any competition.

Grand Slam Force must be a jump to 5NT.

6 of trump suit = no honor
The more you have, the less you bid.
If in doubt, 5NT is pick-a-slam, not GSF

Exclusion BW
Must be a jump above game, or any ace-asking bid by the person who voluntarily made a
splinter bid as his previous call and heard a sign-off. If the splinter bidder hears
encouragement, his ace-asking bid is not exclusion.
4NT replaces Kickback calls as Exclusion: 1D-2C-2D-4N is Exclusion keycard in hearts.
Responses are 0,1,2 keycards … no queen. Why?

5NT Pick a Slam

Used frequently, try to be careful and logical in responding.
Assume 5NT is “always” pick a slam, “never” GSF.

4NT Quantitative
Bids over this are forcing to at least 5NT … if 4NT’ers next bid is 5NT that’s pick-a-
slam. Bids over 4NT are natural … 5X then 6X shows 5 cards, 6X directly shows 6
cards.

Soloway Jump Shifts (only 1♦/♥-2♠)

Responder’s second new suit shows shortness with fit for opener’s suit.
If opener raises responder’s major, then new suit is Q-bid not splinter.
Opener should not rebid NT at his first turn with a singleton.

DOPI (D=1,4 P=0,3 Bid=2, etc.) through and including 5♦

DEPO at 5♥ and higher

 62

Slam Conventions
Our Jumps to 5-level
 Jump to new suit above game is exclusion RKC
 Jump to 5 of trump suit asks for control in unbid suit
5NT = guarded king
6 of trump suit = stiff
other responses show 1st round control and show #KC outside asked suit
(0-3, 1-4, 2)
 Nonjump raise from 4 to 5 shows worry about their suit

4♣/4♦ RKC

Usually used over 4x1 with known HCP

Not used over unlimited hands
4♣ forces 4♦to make a natural slam try
4♦ forces 4♥ to sign off
4♥ is RKC in lowest suit partner has shown
4♠ is RKC in middle suit
4NT is RKC in highest suit
5 level shows # of keycards and desire to play in singleton suit
Follow-up If possible to get “back on track” (i.e. bid one over the trump suit) then that
asks for specific kings. If not possible to bid one over, then repeat of the RKC ask suit
asks for plain # of kings.
Example 1♣-3♣-3♦-3♥ shows 4-4-4-1, so 3♠ is natural F, 3NT is natural, 4-level is
these RKC asking methods.

CRASH for Aces, Kings and Queens after relay sequences

1st step 1 or 4
2nd step 0 or 3
3rd step 2, same color
4th step 2, same rank (i.e. majors or minors)
5th step 2, same shape (i.e. ♣ + ♥, or ♦ + ♠)
 63

Slam Conventions
Not playing Serious 3NT

Cuebidding
Never bypass a control when cue-bidding at the 4-level or higher. If a suit is bypassed,
partner will sign off when lacking a control in that suit. If we do bypass and then bid
again, the focus is on the first suit cue-bid.
Cuebids of their suits when it is definitely our hand:
Usual priority is assumed to be stopper search for 3NT
If in a GF, do not make advance cuebids … just raise the suit immediately
If in a GF, the “advance” cuebid followed by support denies primary support … it
shows a “futzing around” type of hand.

In GF fit situations, cuebid your cheapest A or K (not shortness). Later cuebids in a suit,
if available, can show the shortness.

In the middle of a cue-bidding sequence, when 4NT is obviously not blackwood, 4NT
is D-I meaning continue cue-bidding as cheaply as possible.

Other
Jumps to 4M in auctions where we have already bid the major are always fast arrival,
denying slam interest.
 64

Asking Bids
Trump Asking Bids
Only in big club auctions:
1♣-1M-2M (on in comp as long as opener got to raise 1M to 2M)
S1=5-6/0, S2=5/1, S3=5/2, S4=6/1, S5=6/2, S6=5-6/3
1♣-1NT-2♣-2♦/♥ or 2♣-2♦-2♥-2♠-3♦/♥ … JACK ASK when suit bid
S1=0/3, S2=1/3, S3=1/3 + J, S4=2/3, S5=2/3 + J, S6=3/3, S7=3/3+J

Control Asking Bids

Ask below 5♣: S1=none, S2=2nd, S3=1st, S4=AK
Subsequent ask in same suit: S1=length, S2=strength
We can play in 3NT after TAB or Jack ask, but not after Jacoby 2NT asks

Other
1H-1S-3D-4C is a cuebid in support of diamonds (no new trump suits at 4-level).
1H-1S-3D-4D is keycard because no other unambiguous ask.
 65

Defensive Carding
Upside down count, attitude and suit preference.
First discard odd-even, subsequent discards current count.
Low odd is most encouraging, low even more encouraging than high even.
When splitting honors, play lowest unless trying to send unusual message.
In middle of hand, give upside down attitude, except on shifts to the king in cashout
situations give upside down count.
In middle of hand shift to current 3rd and 5th.

Leads against Suit

Low from odd, 3rd from even.
Rusinow honor leads, lower of touching honors except with a doubleton
Q from AKQ

Leads vs. NT
4th best
Rusinow honor leads, including from interior sequence

Trick 1 vs. Suits

If can’t beat dummy give upside down suit preference
With a doubleton, always play the most encouraging card – no logic allowed!

Trick 1 vs. NT
Always give upside down count except:
On lead of Aor K give upside down suit preference
On lead of 3rd hand’s “suit” give upside down suit preference
If dummy has suit triple stopped give upside down suit preference

Later Carding vs. Suits

High-low in trumps is usually upside down suit preference; only exception is
when ruff is possible
In general, give attitude (upside-down) in middle of hand.
Only card that demands count in middle of hand is king.
Follow with 9 from J98x, J from J109x, 10 from 1098x, 9 from 109xx, 8 from
98xx.
Lead of K from obvious AK followed by switch shows singleton.
During hand, if ruff is possible, signal low from xx to “encourage”.

Later Carding vs. NT

Reverse Smith Echo – Low-High means we like suit lead, except:
If count is critical (long suit in dummy w/o entry).
If continuation is impossible or unlikely (partner is out) then give upside
down suit pref

First Discard
When in doubt, odd-even prevails. Even if holding is already known, we use total
odd-even principles. An odd discard in a suit that is known to be “worthless” just
says there is no real preference between the other suits.