System 7G01 Main |
| by Richard Pavlicek |
Last revision: December 26, 2023
Strength requirements, unless specifically stated as HCP, are presumed to be HCP for natural notrump bids, or total points (distributional values included) for all other bids. Unusual treatments are denoted with a bullet.
Abbreviations used: | 1 |
F | forcing | |
AF | artificial force | |
DJ | double jump | |
NF | nonforcing | |
I | invitational | |
GF | game forcing | |
ST | slam try |
Basic approach is five-card majors, strong notrumps and weak two-bids. When opening a minor with 3-3, bid the stronger unless the difference is close, then 1 ; similarly with 4-4, although rebid considerations may be a factor.
Opening bids: | 11 |
1 1 | 13-22, 3+ cards | |
1 1 | 13-22, 5+ cards | |
1 N | 15-17, balanced | |
2 | 23+, AF | |
2 2 2 | 5-10 HCP, weak two-bid | |
2 N | 20-22, balanced | |
3+ suit | weak | |
3 N | | ace ask, good 1-suiter, 9+ tricks, F |
4 N 5 N | | minors, extreme shape |
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
An opening bid of 1 N shows 15-17 HCP and balanced distribution. Hands with a 5 card major or off-shape pattern are acceptable if each doubleton contains an ace, king or queen, or per judgment.
1 N | P | ? | 21 |
2 | Stayman | |
2 2 | Jacoby transfer | |
2 | minor-suit Stayman | |
2 N 3 | minor-suit transfer | |
3 | | 5-5 majors |
3 3 | | splinter, 3-suited ST |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 | Gerber | |
4 4 | Texas transfer |
An opening bid of 2 N shows 20-22 HCP, similar in nature to 1 N.
2 N | P | ? | 22 |
3 | Stayman | |
3 3 | Jacoby transfer | |
3 | minor-suit Stayman | |
Higher | same as #21 |
After a 1 N or 2 N opening, cheapest club bid is Stayman. No HCP are promised, nor is the presence of a major suit.
1 N ? | P | 2 | P | 31 |
2 | no 4+ card major | |
2 | 4+ hearts, may have 4 spades | |
2 | 4+ spades, denies 4 hearts |
1 N 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 32 |
2 | weak, at least 4-4 majors or 3=4=1=5 | |
2 | sign-off | |
2 N | does not imply major, I | |
3 3 | 5+ cards, GF | |
3 | | 5+ spades, 4 hearts, GF |
3 | | 5+ hearts, 4 spades, GF |
Any game | sign-off | |
4 4 | | splinter, 3-suited ST |
Note that Gerber and transfer bids do not apply immediately after Stayman.
2 N 3 | P P | 3 ? | P | 33 |
3 | | 5+ spades, 4+ hearts, GF |
3 | | 5+ hearts, 4 spades, GF |
Any game | sign-off | |
4 4 | 5+ cards, ST |
1 N 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 34 |
2 | | 4 spades (checkback), F |
2 N 3 | no interest in spades, I | |
3 3 | 5+ cards, 4 spades, GF | |
3 | | agrees hearts, ST |
3 N | 4 spades, game sign-off | |
4 4 | | splinter, ST |
4 5 5 | sign-off |
2 N 3 | P P | 3 ? | P | 35 |
3 | | agrees hearts, ST |
3 N | 4 spades, game sign-off | |
4 4 | 5+ cards, ST | |
4 5 5 | sign-off |
2 N 3 ? | P P | 3 4 | P P | 36 |
4 | strength, 3+ clubs | |
4 * | | 4-4 majors |
4 | super Gerber | |
4 N | no club fit or wrong cards, NF | |
5 | 3+ clubs, discourages slam |
*then 4 (NF) confirms a 4-4 fit
2 N 3 | P P | 3 ? | P | 37 |
3 N | 4 hearts, game sign-off | |
4 4 | 5+ cards, ST | |
4 | | agrees spades, ST |
4 5 5 | sign-off |
1 N 2 3 N | P P P | 2 3 ? | P P | 38 |
4 4 | 3 cards, ST | |
4 | transfer to 4 |
1 N 2 3 N | P P P | 2 3 ? | P P | 39 |
4 | 3 cards, ST | |
4 | transfer to 4 |
2 N 3 3 N | P P P | 3 3 ? | P P | 40 |
4 | 3 cards, ST | |
4 | transfer to 4 (5-5 majors) | |
4 | transfer to 4 |
2 N 3 3 N | P P P | 3 3 ? | P P | 41 |
4 | 3 cards, ST | |
4 | transfer to 4 |
1 N ? | P | 2 | X | 42 |
Rdbl | 4+ strong clubs | |
Pass | 4 clubs, no major | |
2 | 4+ diamonds, no major | |
2 2 | unchanged |
After Stayman is doubled, responder may pass, redouble or bid 2 to play; else rebid normally, except 3 (GF) shows a stiff or worthless doubleton.
If either opponents bids, all doubles by opener or responder are penalty.
After a 1 N or 2 N opening the cheapest diamond bid shows at least 5 hearts, and the cheapest heart bid shows at least 5 spades. Opener typically completes the transfer by bidding the shown major.
1 N 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 51 |
2 | | 5-5 majors, I (NF) |
2 N | 5 hearts, I | |
3 3 | 4+ cards, GF | |
3 | 6+ hearts (rare 5), I | |
3 N | 5 hearts (rare 6), choice of game | |
3 | | agrees hearts, ST |
4 4 | self-splinter, agrees hearts, ST | |
4 | agrees hearts, slam I (NF) |
1 N 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 52 |
3 | | agrees spades, ST |
4 4 4 | self-splinter, agrees spades, ST | |
Other | analogous to #51 |
2 N 3 | P P | 3 ? | P | 53 |
3 | | agrees hearts, ST |
4 4 | 4+ cards, ST | |
4 | agrees hearts, slam I (NF) | |
3 N | 5 hearts (rare 6), choice of game |
2 N 3 | P P | 3 ? | P | 54 |
4 | | agrees spades, ST |
Other | analogous to #53 |
Note that responders rebid of 3 or 4 in the unshown major artificially agrees the major shown, not only after Jacoby but also after Stayman.
1 N 2 ? | P P | 2 3 | P P | 55 |
3 3 * | strength, implies club fit | |
3 | heart fit | |
3 N | no fit or wrong cards | |
4 4 | good fit, right cards | |
4 | super Gerber |
*not a shown suit for super Gerber rule
2 N 3 ? | P P | 3 4 | P P | 56 |
4 | strength, implies club fit | |
4 | heart fit | |
4 | super Gerber | |
4 N | no fit or wrong cards |
1 N 2 3 | P P P | 2 3 ? | P P | 57 |
3 | 6+ hearts or strong 5 | |
3 | ace or shortness | |
3 N 4 5 | no slam interest, NF | |
4 | 5-5, GF | |
4 | ace or king | |
4 | super Gerber |
Note that if responder bids a suit he has not shown it is super Gerber if 4 of the other major, ace or king if opener showed strength, else ace or shortness.
2 N 3 4 | P P P | 3 4 ? | P P | 58 |
4 5 | no slam interest, NF | |
4 | super Gerber | |
4 N | natural, NF |
Opener may jump in responders major to show an exceptional fit and maximum values, typically a hand that revalues to greater than the indicated range. The meaning of responders rebids are then changed:
1 N 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 59 |
3 4 4 | self-splinter, ST | |
3 N | | no splinter, ST (F) |
4 | sign-off | |
4 N | Blackwood |
2 N 4 | P P | 3 ? | P | 60 |
4 5 5 | ace or void, ST | |
4 N | Blackwood | |
5 | no ace or void, slam I |
If an opponent interferes after the transfer, rebids are adjusted to obtain a penalty or put the active opponent on lead. Same principles apply after a 2 N opening.
1 N ? | P | 2 | X | 61 |
Pass | normal action | |
Rdbl | 4+ strong diamonds, suggests to play | |
2 | fit, happy with diamond lead | |
3 | normal bypass | |
3 | bypass, happy with diamond lead |
1 N P | P P | 2 ? | X | 62 |
Rdbl | penalty suggestion, opener pulls w/fit | |
2 | sign-off | |
3 | singleton or worthless doubleton, GF | |
Other | unchanged |
1 N ? | P | 2 | 2 | 63 |
Pass | normal action | |
Dbl | penalty | |
3 | good heart fit to put bidder on lead | |
3 | good fit, happy with spade lead |
1 N P | P P | 2 ? | 2 | 64 |
Dbl | optional, I+, opener pulls w/fit | |
3 | self-splinter, agrees hearts, GF | |
Other | unchanged |
If responder rebids in notrump offering a choice of strain, opener may bid the suit below responders major to make responder declarer and put active defender on lead.
After a 1 N or 2 N opening the cheapest spade bid shows both minor suits. Only 4-4 is required with slam interest, but otherwise at least 5-4 (either way). Over 1 N strength is game invitational or better; over 2 N it is game forcing.
1 N ? | P | 2 | P | 71 |
2 N 3 3 | minimum, NF | |
3 3 | strength in suit, GF | |
3 N | maximum, NF | |
4 4 | maximum, pure values, GF |
1 N 2 N | P P | 2 ? | P | 72 |
3 3 | 5+ cards, NF | |
3 3 | shortness, GF | |
3 N | sign-off | |
4 4 | 5+ cards, ST |
1 N 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 73 |
3 | 5+ cards, GF | |
3 3 | shortness, GF | |
3 N | choice of game, NF | |
4 | at least 5-5, I |
1 N 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 74 |
3 | shortness, ST | |
3 N | sign-off | |
4 4 | 5+ cards, F (may be original I) | |
4 | 3 hearts, suggestion to play, NF |
1 N 3 N | P P | 2 ? | P | 75 |
4 4 | 5+ cards, ST | |
4 | | at least 5-5, ST |
2 N ? | P | 3 | P | 76 |
3 N | no fit or wrong values | |
4 4 | that minor fit | |
4 | | no 4 card fit, good values |
2 N 3 N | P P | 3 ? | P | 77 |
4 4 | 5+ cards, ST | |
4 | | at least 5-5, ST |
2 N 4 | P P | 3 ? | P | 78 |
4 | 5+ diamonds, ST | |
4 | | at least 5-5, ST |
5 | slam remote, NF |
After a 1 N opening, a response of 2 N shows 5+ clubs, and 3 shows 5+ diamonds. No strength is promised (may be a bust). Responder should not have a second suit if he plans to bid again. Opener almost always completes the transfer but may gamble 3 N with an exceptional fit and stoppers. This does not apply over 2 N.
1 N 3 | P P | 2 N ? | P | 81 |
3 3 3 | self-splinter, agrees clubs, ST | |
3 N | mild ST (NF) | |
4 | shapely, I | |
5 | shapely, slam remote, NF |
Note that to invite game in notrump it is necessary to use Stayman and rebid 2 N.
1 N 3 | P P | 3 ? | P | 82 |
3 3 4 | self-splinter, agrees diamonds, ST | |
3 N | mild ST, NF | |
4 | shapely, I | |
5 | shapely, slam remote, NF |
Note that all suit rebids by responder confirm 6+ cards in his minor; notrump rebids can be 5-3-3-2.
Interference after the transfer should be handled like Jacoby transfer interference.
After a 1 N opening, a response of 3 shows at least 5-5 in the majors and GF values. This does not apply over 2 N.
1 N ? | P | 3 | P | 91 |
3 3 | better fit, normal action | |
3 N | extreme minor strength, NF | |
4 4 | | great fit, both minor aces |
1 N 3 | P P | 3 ? | P | 92 |
3 | | two singletons, ST |
3 N | honors in short suits, NF | |
4 4 | shortness, ST | |
4 | sign-off |
1 N 3 N | P P | 3 ? | P | 93 |
4 4 | shortness, ST | |
4 | no slam interest, NF, correctable | |
4 | sign-off |
1 N ? | P | 3 | X | 94 |
Pass | no diamond control | |
Rdbl | 5+ strong diamonds, suggest to play | |
Other | unchanged |
After a 1 N opening, a response of 3 or 3 shows a 3-suited hand (4-4-4-1 or 5-4-4-0) short in the major bid with interest in slam. This does not apply over 2 N.
1 N ? | P | 3 | P | 101 |
3 4 4 | fit-showing | |
3 N | no fit or wrong values |
1 N ? | P | 3 | P | 102 |
3 N | no fit or wrong values | |
4 4 | fit-showing | |
4 | heart fit, discouraging slam | |
4 | heart fit, good hand |
1 N 3 | P P | 3 ? | P | 103 |
3 N | blank honor, NF | |
4 4 | control | |
4 | void | |
4 | minimal ST (NF) |
1 N 3 N | P P | 3 ? | P | 104 |
4 4 | 5 cards | |
4 | super Gerber | |
4 | 5 spades, NF |
1 N 4 | P P | 3 ? | P | 105 |
4 4 | control | |
4 | super Gerber | |
5 | minimal ST (NF) |
1 N ? | P | 3 | X | 106 |
Pass | no 4+ fit, doubts about 3 N | |
Rdbl | 4+ strong hearts, desire to play | |
Other | unchanged |
After a 1 N or 2 N opening a jump to 4 shows 6+ hearts, and a jump to 4 shows 6+ spades. Opener must complete the transfer, and responder usually passes. If responder does bid again:
1 N 4 | P P | 4 ? | P | 111 |
4 5 5 | void, ST | |
4 N | Blackwood | |
5 | freak shape, I |
1 N ? | P | 4 | X | 112 |
Pass | normal action to put doubler on lead | |
Rdbl | diamond ace | |
4 | happy with diamond lead |
Note that a redouble beyond 3 N is not a suggestion to play but indicates control.
If an opponent doubles our 1 N there is one addition:
1 N | X | ? | 121 |
Rdbl | rescue with one minor* | |
Other | unchanged |
*Opener bids 2 then responder passes or corrects.
If an opponent overcalls 2 (any meaning) our system is on but with the following modifications:
1 N | 2 1 | ? | 1. natural or artificial | 122 |
Dbl | Stayman, unless 2 = majors then 8+ HCP | |
2 N | natural invitation if 2 showed clubs | |
Other | unchanged |
If an opponent overcalls 2 or higher in a natural suit (4+ cards) the general scheme is that responses of 2 N through 3 are transfers to the next higher suit or Stayman if the next higher suit was bid by the opponent. Texas also applies unless the major above was bid by the opponent, then it shows shortness with slam interest.
1 N | 2 | ? | 123 |
Dbl | penalty, creates force | |
2 | 5+ spades, weak, NF | |
2 N | 5+ clubs | |
3 | 5+ diamonds | |
3 | | Stayman |
3 | 5+ spades, I+ | |
3 | | asks for heart stopper |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 | Gerber | |
4 | | heart shortness, ST |
4 | Texas |
If the natural overcall shows a second suit:
1 N | 2 1 | ? | 1. diamonds + hearts | 124 |
2 shown | takeout, may be just competitive | |
Other | analogous to #123 |
Only the actual bid that you can double for penalty qualifies for the Stayman or shortness treatment above.
1 N | 3 | ? | 125 |
Dbl | negative | |
3 | 5+ hearts | |
3 | 5+ spades | |
3 | | asks for club stopper |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 | Gerber | |
4 4 | Texas |
1 N | 3 | ? | 126 |
Dbl | negative | |
3 | | asks for heart stopper |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 | Gerber | |
4 | | heart shortness, ST |
4 | Texas |
To show a minor on the previous two auctions, responder can bid 3 (stopper ask) then his minor (GF). The stopper information may also be helpful in judging slam prospects.
1 N | 3 | ? | 127 |
Dbl | negative | |
3 N | sign-off | |
4 | Gerber | |
4 | Texas | |
4 | | spade shortness, ST |
1 N | 4 | ? | 128 |
Dbl | negative | |
4 | diamonds, F | |
4 4 | natural, NF |
Note transfers are off for interference beyond 3 N.
1 N ? | 2 | 3 | P | 129 |
3 | normal action | |
3 N | max, good spade stopper | |
4 | max, good heart fit |
1 N ? | 2 | 3 | P | 130 |
3 | no heart stopper, not 4 spades | |
3 | 4+ spades, min if only unshown major | |
3 N | heart stopper, not 4 spades | |
4 * | 4+ spades, max |
*disallowed if both majors unshown
If opener denies a stopper, followups are natural, and bidding can end in 4 or 4 . Cue of enemy suit by either asks choice of minors (or remaining suits).
1 N ? | 2 | 3 | P | 131 |
3 N | heart stopper | |
4 suit | 4+ cards, no stopper, NF | |
Cue | max, no stopper, highest + other suit | |
4 N | max, no stopper, two lowest suits |
If an opponent overcalls 2 or higher artificially (not 4+ cards in suit bid) the following structures apply:
1 N | 2 1 | ? | 1. not showing 4+ diamonds | 132 |
Dbl | 8+ HCP, creates force | |
2 shown | takeout, may be just competitive | |
2 unshown | 5+ cards, NF | |
2 N 3 | 5+ cards in next higher suit | |
3 | | asks for stopper in shown suit(s) |
3 N | sign-off | |
4 | Gerber | |
4 4 | Texas |
After an artificial overcall note that transferring to a shown suit is the same as any other.
1 N | 2 N1 | ? | 1. minors | 133 |
3 | Stayman | |
Other | same as #132 |
1 N | 3 1 | ? | 1. majors | 134 |
3 | minors, may be just competitive | |
Other | same as #132 |
Note that 4 by responder is always Gerber (jump or not) after interference.
After our 2 N opening, the same structures apply insofar as possible; i.e., 2 level bids are eliminated, and higher bids keep their meaning.
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
General strategy is to respond up-the-line with 4-4 majors. A 5 card minor may be suppressed to bid a 4 card major at the 1 level, but with good hands tend to bid in natural order unless greatly biased by strength.
1 | P | ? | 141 |
1 1 1 | 6+, 4+ cards | |
1 N | 6-10, no 4 card major | |
2 | 11+, 4+ clubs, F | |
2 2 2 | weak | |
2 N | 15+, balanced | |
3+ any suit | weak | |
3 N | 13-14, balanced |
1 | P | ? | 142 |
2 | 11+, 5+ clubs | |
2 | 11+, 4+ diamonds | |
Other | same as #141 |
1 | P | ? | 143 |
1 | 6+, 4+ spades | |
1 N | 6-14, F | |
2 2 | 13+, 5+ cards | |
2 | 7-10, 3+ hearts | |
2 3 3 | weak | |
2 N | 15+, balanced | |
3 | 11-12, 4+ hearts | |
3 4 4 | 13+, splinter | |
3 N | 13-15, 4+ hearts, no splinter, F | |
Higher suit | weak |
1 | P | ? | 144 |
2 | 13+, 5+ cards | |
2 | 7-10, 3+ spades | |
3 | weak | |
3 | 11-12, 4+ spades | |
3 N | 13-15, 4+ spades, no splinter, F | |
4 | 13+, splinter | |
Other | same as #143 |
1 ? | P | 1 | P | 151 |
1 1 | 13-18, 4+ cards | |
1 N* | 12-14, balanced | |
2 | 13-15, 6+ clubs (rare 5) | |
2 | 13-15, 4 diamonds | |
2 2 | 19+, 4+ cards (rare 3), GF | |
2 N* | 18-19, balanced, I | |
3 | 16-18, 6+ clubs, I | |
3 | 16-18, 4+ diamonds, I | |
3 3 | 19+, splinter | |
3 N | 16+, 6+ strong clubs | |
4 | | 19+, 6+ clubs, 4 diamonds |
4 | 19+, 6+ clubs, 5 diamonds |
*preferable to 1 or 1 with both majors stopped
1 ? | P | 1 | P | 152 |
1 | 13-18, 4+ spades | |
1 N | 12-14, balanced, not 4 spades | |
2 | 13-15, 6+ clubs (rare 5) | |
2 | 17+, 4+ diamonds (rare 3), F | |
2 | 13-15, 3+ hearts (usually 4) | |
2 | 19+, 4+ cards (rare 3), GF | |
2 N | 18-19, balanced, I | |
3 | 16-18, 6+ clubs, I | |
3 | | 19+, 6+ clubs, 4+ diamonds, GF |
3 | 16-18, 4 hearts, I | |
3 4 | 19+, splinter | |
3 N | 16+, 6+ strong clubs | |
4 | | 19+, 6+ clubs, 4 hearts, F |
4 | 19+, 4 hearts, no splinter |
1 ? | P | 1 | P | 153 |
1 N | 12-14, balanced | |
2 2 | 13-18, 4+ cards | |
2 | 13-15, 6+ hearts | |
2 | 13-15, 3+ spades (usually 4) | |
2 N | 18-19, balanced, I | |
3 3 | 19, 4+ cards (rare 3), GF | |
3 | 16-18, 6+ hearts, I | |
3 | 16-18, 4 spades, I | |
3 N | 16+, 6+ strong hearts | |
4 4 | 19+, splinter | |
4 | 19+, 6+ hearts | |
4 | 19+, 4 spades, no splinter |
After a 1-level suit response and openers nonjump, non-reverse rebid, all jumps and raises to three of a minor are GF. Responder usually must bid a new suit (third or fourth) to effect an invitation.
1 1 | P P | 1 ? | P | 161 |
1 N 2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 | 11+, AF | |
2 N 3 | 13+, GF | |
3 | 5+ diamonds, 5+ hearts, GF | |
3 N 4 4 | sign-off attempt | |
4 4 | splinter, ST |
1 1 | P P | 1 ? | P | 162 |
1 | 11+, AF | |
2 | 4 spades, 6+ diamonds, GF | |
3 4 | splinter, ST | |
Other | analogous to #161 |
1 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 163 |
2 2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 | 11+, AF | |
2 N | 10-12, I | |
3 3 3 | | 13+, GF |
3 | 5+ hearts, 5+ spades, GF | |
3 N | 13-16 |
1 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 164 |
2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 2 | 11+, semi-natural, F | |
2 N | 10-12, I | |
3 3 | | 13+, GF |
3 | 5+ diamonds, 5+ hearts, GF | |
3 | 4 spades, 6+ hearts, GF | |
3 N | 13-16 |
1 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 165 |
2 2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 N | 10-12, I | |
3 | 11+, AF | |
3 3 3 | | 13+, GF |
3 N | 13-16 |
1 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 166 |
2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 N | 10-12, I | |
3 3 | 11+, semi-natural, F | |
3 | I | |
3 | 13+, GF | |
3 N | 13-16 |
After a third- or fourth-suit force, opener should describe his hand as naturally as possible. Bidding at or below 2 N (except new suit, or 2 after 1 rebid) or the same suit three times explicitly rejects an invitation and is NF. Other non-jumps are ambiguous strength (F); jumps are GF.
1 1 ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 171 |
2 2 2 N | reject, NF | |
2 * | | 4 good/decent spades, ambiguous, F |
3 | 4 clubs, ambiguous, F | |
3 3 3 N | accept | |
3 | 5 spades, 6+ diamonds, GF |
*undesirable to bid notrump; could be 5-6 bare minimum
1 2 ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 172 |
2 N | reject, NF | |
3 3 3 | ambiguous, F | |
3 | ace*, GF | |
3 N | accept |
*because 4 spades were denied (else would show 4)
1 2 ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 173 |
2 | 4 hearts or ace, ambiguous, F | |
2 2 N 3 | reject, NF | |
3 | 4 diamonds, ambiguous, F | |
3 3 N | accept |
1 2 ? | P P | 1 3 | P P | 174 |
3 | reject, NF | |
3 4 | ambiguous, F | |
3 | ace, F | |
3 N | accept |
1 1 ? | P P | 1 1 | P P | 175 |
1 N 2 2 | reject, NF | |
2 | 4 strong hearts or 5, ambiguous, F | |
2 | 4 spades, ambiguous, F | |
2 N 3 3 | accept, GF |
1 2 ? | P P | 1 3 | P P | 176 |
3 * | | reject, not 3 spades, NF |
3 3 N 4 m | accept | |
3 | ambiguous, F |
*does not show 5+ diamonds
If opener bids the same suit consecutively, or a third suit below his rebid first suit, it is nonforcing.
1 2 ? | P P | 1 2 N | P P | 177 |
3 3 | natural, NF | |
3 | natural, F | |
3 | strength (short clubs), F |
1 2 ? | P P | 1 2 N | P P | 178 |
3 | natural, NF | |
3 3 | natural, F | |
3 | | AF, 5-5 minors |
1 2 ? | P P | 1 2 N | P P | 179 |
3 3 3 | natural, NF | |
3 | natural, F |
1 2 ? | P P | 1 2 N | P P | 180 |
3 3 3 | natural, F | |
3 | natural, NF |
After a third- or fourth-suit force, responder need not bid again if openers third bid was a rejection. If responder does bid again, he names the final strain; if this is a nonjump below game, he shows invitational values. Any jump bid below game is forcing.
If opener raises the third or fourth suit, or shows a preference for responders first suit, this does not determine the final strain but merely describes openers hand. It is still responders duty to bid the final strain next.
Rebidding the third or fourth suit shows at least 5-5 shape; invitational at 3 level, unless opener showed a preference for responders first suit then GF; GF at 4 level.
When opener rebids 1 N, responders rebids follow a similar structure but substituting new minor forcing for the previous third-suit force. All jumps are GF.
1 1 N | P P | 1 ? | P | 201 |
2 2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 | 11+, AF | |
2 | 13+, 4 spades, 5+ hearts, GF | |
2 N | 11-12, I | |
3 3 | 13+, GF | |
3 | 13+, at least 5-5, GF | |
3 4 4 | | self-splinter, agrees hearts, ST |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 | | super Gerber |
1 1 N | P P | 1 ? | P | 202 |
2 | 11+, AF | |
2 2 2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 N | 11-12, I | |
3 3 | 13+, at least 5-5, GF | |
3 3 | 13+, GF | |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 4 | | self-splinter, agrees spades, ST |
4 | | super Gerber |
1 1 N | P P | 1 ? | P | 203 |
2 * | | 11+, AF |
2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 2 | 4 cards, 5+ diamonds, GF | |
2 N | 11-12, I | |
3 3 | 13+, GF | |
3 3 4 | | self-splinter, agrees diamonds, ST |
3 N | sign-off | |
4 | | super Gerber |
*no sign-off in clubs on this auction
1 1 N | P P | 1 ? | P | 204 |
2 2 | 11+, seminatural, F | |
2 2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 N | 11-12, I | |
3 3 | 13+, at least 5-5, GF | |
3 3 | 13+, GF | |
3 N 4 4 | sign-off | |
4 4 | | self-splinter, agrees spades, ST |
1 1 N ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 205 |
2 2 N | reject | |
2 | ace*, ambiguous | |
3 3 | ambiguous | |
3 3 N | accept |
*because 4 spades denied
1 1 N ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 206 |
2 2 2 N | reject | |
2 * | 4 hearts, ambiguous | |
3 | 4 clubs, ambiguous | |
3 3 3 N | accept |
*priority bid if also holding 3 spades
1 1 N ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 207 |
2 2 N | reject | |
2 2 | 4 cards, ambiguous | |
3 | 5 clubs, ambiguous | |
3 3 N | accept |
1 1 N ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 208 |
2 2 2 N | reject | |
3 3 | ambiguous | |
3 3 3 N | accept |
In the previous four auctions, bidding a minor suit at the 3 level implies a weak holding in the unbid suit, hence warning against notrump.
After new minor forcing, responder need not bid again if openers third bid was a rejection. If responder does bid again, he names the final strain; if this is a nonjump below game, he shows an invitational-range hand. Any jump bid below game is forcing.
If opener raises the new minor or shows a preference for responders first suit, this does not determine the final strain but merely describes openers hand. It is still responders duty to bid the final strain next.
Rebidding the new minor shows at least 5-5 shape; invitational at 3 level; GF at 4 level.
When opener jumps to 2 N (18-19) after a 1-level suit response, the only way to stop below game is to pass; i.e., all continuations are GF. General structure is to use new minor forcing on game-only hands, so other bids can be used to suggest slam.
1 2 N | P P | 1 ? | P | 211 |
3 3 3 | natural, ST | |
3 | AF, checkback | |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 4 | | self-splinter, agrees hearts, ST |
4 | super Gerber |
1 2 N | P P | 1 ? | P | 212 |
3 | AF, checkback | |
3 3 3 | natural, ST | |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 4 | | self-splinter, agrees spades, ST |
4 | super Gerber |
1 2 N | P P | 1 ? | P | 213 |
3 * | | AF, checkback |
3 3 3 | natural, ST | |
3 N | sign-off | |
4 4 | | self-splinter, agrees diamonds, ST |
4 | super Gerber |
*if followed by 4 is natural ST
1 2 N | P P | 1 ? | P | 214 |
3 3 * | | seminatural, checkback |
3 3 | natural, ST | |
3 N 4 4 | sign-off | |
4 4 | | self-splinter, agrees spades, ST |
*if followed by 4 or 4 is 5-5 ST
If responder has both majors and no slam interest, he must go through new minor forcing even with 5-5 shape.
1 2 N 3 N | P P P | 1 3 ? | P P | 215 |
4 4 | natural, no slam interest | |
4 | at least 5-5, ST | |
4 | | 5-5 in majors, no slam interest |
After a 1 or 1 opening, a 1 N response shows 6-10 HCP, and 3 N shows 13-14 HCP. Both show balanced hands (except 1 N over 1 necessitated by long clubs) and no 4 card major, but may have one if flat (4-3-3-3) with the other unbid suits stopped.
1 ? | P | 1 N | P | 221 |
Pass | most common | |
2 | 13-18, NF | |
2 | 13-15, NF | |
2 2 | 17+, 4+ cards (rare 3), F | |
2 N 3 | 16-18, I | |
3 | 19+, 4+ clubs (rare 3), GF | |
3 3 | | 4+ cards, 6+ diamonds, GF |
3 N | sign-off |
1 ? | P | 3 N | P | 222 |
Pass | most common | |
4 4 4 | natural, ST, F | |
4 | super Gerber |
See also Two Notrump Response which is the same over a minor or major.
After a 1 or 1 opening, a response of 1 N shows 6-14 HCP (rarely less with a fit) and denies 4 spades after 1 . Obviously it is forcing.
1 ? | P | 1 N | P | 231 |
2 2 | 13-18, 3+ cards, NF | |
2 | 13-15, 6+ hearts, NF | |
2 | 17+ with 6+ hearts else 19+, F | |
2 N | 16-18, I | |
3 3 | 19+, 4+ cards (rare 3), GF | |
3 | 16-18, 6+ hearts, I | |
3 | 4+ spades, 6+ hearts, GF | |
3 N | 19+, NF | |
4 4 | | 19+, splinter, 6+ hearts |
4 | 19+, 6+ hearts |
1 ? | P | 1 N | P | 232 |
2 | 13-18, 4+ hearts, NF | |
2 | 13-15, 6+ spades, NF | |
3 | 19+, 4+ hearts, GF | |
3 | 16-18, 6+ spades, I | |
4 | 16-18, at least 5-5, NF | |
Other | same as #231 |
1 2 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 233 |
2 | 6-10, 6+ diamonds (rare 5), NF | |
2 | 6-10 with 2 hearts or 4-7 w/3+, NF | |
2 | | 11+, agrees clubs |
2 N | 11-12, I | |
3 | 10-12, 5+ clubs (rare 4), NF | |
3 3 | | 13+, club raise, values in bid, F |
3 | 11-12, 3 hearts, I | |
3 N | 13-14, NF | |
4 | 10-12, 6+ clubs, I | |
4 | | 13+, heart raise, diamond values |
4 | 13+, 3 hearts, NF |
1 2 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 234 |
2 | 6-10, 5+ hearts, NF | |
2 | 6-10 with 2 spades or 4-7 w/3+, NF | |
2 N | 11-12, I | |
3 | 6-10, 6+ clubs, NF | |
3 | 10-12, 5+ diamonds (rare 4), I | |
3 | | 13+, diamond raise, heart values |
3 | 11-12, 3 spades, I | |
3 N | 13-14, NF | |
4 4 | | 13+, spade raise, values in bid |
4 | 10-12, 6+ diamonds, I | |
4 | 13+, 3 spades, NF |
1 2 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 235 |
2 | 6-10 with 2 spades or 4-7 w/3+, NF | |
2 N | 11-12, I | |
3 3 | 6-10, 6+ cards, NF | |
3 | 9-11, 4+ hearts, I | |
3 | 11-12, 3 spades, I | |
3 N | 13-14, NF | |
4 4 | | 13+, heart raise, values in bid |
4 | 12+, 4+ hearts, NF | |
4 | 13+, 3 spades, NF |
Note that responders jump shifts always show support for openers second suit, unless beyond 3 N when second suit is a minor, then openers first suit. Value jumps (not splinters) are used because if responder has a splinter it is almost always in openers original major.
1 2 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 236 |
2 * | | 8+, at least 5-5 minors, F |
3 4 4 | | 13+, heart raise, values in bid, GF |
3 | 11-12, 2 hearts, I | |
4 | 13+ with 2 hearts or 11+ w/3+ | |
Other | same as #235 |
*limit bidding follows
1 2 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 237 |
2 N | weak or waiting, F | |
3 3 | 6+ cards, F | |
3 3 | 10+, 3 cards, GF | |
3 N | 10-12, NF | |
4 4 | | 11+, heart raise, values in bid |
4 | 8-10, NF |
1 2 N | P P | 1 N ? | P | 238 |
3 3 | weak, 6+ cards, NF | |
3 | weak, sign-off attempt | |
3 | | at least 5-5 minors, GF |
Jump suit | | 11+, heart raise, values in bid |
1 2 N | P P | 1 N ? | P | 239 |
3 | 5+ cards, F | |
Other | analogous to #238 |
1 3 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 240 |
3 | | at least 5-5 minors, GF |
4 4 | 6+ cards, F |
1 3 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 241 |
4 4 | 6+ cards, F | |
4 | 6+ hearts, NF |
1 3 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 242 |
3 | 5+ diamonds | |
3 | weak or waiting, 2+ hearts | |
3 | | 11+, club raise |
4 | 6-10, 4+ clubs | |
4 | | 11+, heart raise, diamond values |
4 | 11-12, 3 hearts |
1 3 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 243 |
3 | 5+ hearts | |
3 | weak or waiting, 2+ spades | |
4 | 6+ clubs | |
4 | 4+ diamonds | |
4 | | 11+, spade raise, heart values |
4 | 11-12, 3 spades |
1 3 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 244 |
3 | weak or waiting, 2+ spades | |
4 4 | 6+ cards, F | |
4 | 4+ hearts (rare 3) | |
4 | 11-12, 3 spades |
After a 1 or 1 opening, a 2-over-1 response shows 5+ cards (rarely strong 4 card minor) and 13+ points, or 6+ cards with 11-12 points. This is GF unless responder rebids his suit next, then invitational. Opener rebids naturally, with no extra strength required for any nonjump bid. Jumps in unbid suits are always splinters: raises if below 4 of responders suit, self-splinters if above.
1 ? | P | 2 | P | 251 |
2 2 | 4+ cards | |
2 | 6+ hearts or strong 5 | |
2 N | 12-14 or 18+ | |
3 | 3+ clubs* | |
3 3 | 15+, splinter, club raise | |
3 | 15+, 6+ hearts, solid or K-Q-J-10 | |
3 N | 15-17, NF | |
4 | 15+, 5-5 shape | |
4 | | 15+, self-splinter, agrees hearts |
4 | 15-17, 7+ hearts, no unbid suit control |
1 ? | P | 2 | P | 252 |
2 | 6+ spades or strong 5 | |
2 N | 12-14 or 18+ | |
3 3 | 4+ cards | |
3 | 3+ hearts* | |
3 | 15+, 6+ spades, solid or K-Q-J-10 | |
3 N | 15-17, NF | |
4 4 | 15+, splinter, heart raise | |
4 | 15-17, 3+ hearts*, no unbid suit control | |
4 | 15-17, 7+ spades, no unbid suit control |
*Opener should not raise immediately with 3 small.
1 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 253 |
2 | 13+, 3+ hearts | |
2 | 13+, AF, usually 6+ clubs | |
2 N | 13-14 or 18+ | |
3 | 11-12, 6+ clubs, NF | |
3 | 13+, 4+ diamonds | |
3 | 15-17, 3+ hearts* | |
3 | 15+, splinter, diamond raise | |
3 N | 15-17, NF | |
4 | 15+, 6+ clubs, solid or K-Q-J-10 | |
4 | 15-17, 4+ diamonds, no spade control | |
4 | 15-17, 3+ hearts*, no spade control |
*not 3 small
1 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 254 |
2 N | 13-14 or 18+ | |
3 3 | 4+ cards (rare 3) | |
3 | 11-12, 6+ diamonds, NF | |
3 | 13+, spades J-x or better | |
3 N | 15-17, NF | |
4 4 | 15+, splinter, spade raise | |
4 | 15+, 6+ diamonds, solid or K-Q-J-10 | |
4 | 15-17, no unbid suit control |
1 2 N | P P | 2 ? | P | 255 |
3 3 | 4+ cards (rare 3) | |
3 | 11-12, 6+ diamonds, NF | |
3 | 13+, 3+ spades | |
3 N | 13-17, NF | |
4 | 15+, self-splinter, agrees diamonds | |
4 | 15+, 6+ diamonds, solid or K-Q-J-10 | |
4 | super Gerber | |
4 | 15-17, no unbid suit control |
If either player has shown a dual range and next bids voluntarily past game, this shows the upper range, except a raise to 4 or 4 , which implies x-x-x support.
1 2 N ? | P P | 2 3 N | P P | 256 |
4 4 | 18+, heart raise, values in bid | |
4 | 13-17, 3 small hearts | |
4 | 18-19, 5+ strong spades, NF |
1 2 3 N | P P P | 2 2 N ? | P P | 257 |
4 | 18+, 6+ clubs | |
4 | 18+, 4+ diamonds (rare 3) | |
4 | 13-17, 3 small hearts | |
4 | super Gerber |
After a 1 opening, a 2 response shows 5+ clubs (rarely strong 4) and 11+ points. If opener has a minimum (not enough to force to game) he must rebid 2 , which is artificial; any other rebid shows 15+ (good 14) and is GF.
1 ? | P | 2 | P | 261 |
2 | | any minimum, AF |
2 2 | 15+, 4+ cards, 5+ diamonds | |
2 N | 15+ (good 14) | |
3 | 15+, 3+ clubs (not 3 small) | |
3 | 15+, 6+ diamonds | |
3 3 | 15+, splinter, club raise | |
3 N | 18-19, NF | |
4 | | 15+, 5-5 minors |
1 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 262 |
2 2 3 | 13+, natural, GF | |
2 N 3 | 11-12, natural, NF | |
3 3 | 17+, self-splinter*, agrees clubs | |
3 N | 13-17, NF | |
4 | 17+, 6+ clubs, solid or K-Q-J-10 | |
4 | | 17+, 5-5 minors |
*based on last shown suit principle (2 was artificial)
After a 1 or 1 opening, responders single raise show 10+ (11+ if balanced), 4+ trumps and no 4 card major; forcing for one round.
1 ? | P | 2 | P | 271 |
2 2 2 | 15+, natural or stopper, F | |
2 N | 12-14, often 3 clubs, NF | |
3 | 12-14, 4+ clubs, NF | |
3 3 3 | 17+, splinter, GF | |
3 N | 18-19, NF | |
4 | 17+, 6+ clubs, no splinter, F |
If either player bids 3 or 4 of the agreed minor (nonjump) it shows minimum values for the previous bidding and is NF. Exception: Removing 3 N to 4 of the minor is a slam try (F) unless the same player made a NF bid.
1 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 272 |
2 3 | strength, F | |
2 N | natural, F | |
3 | minimum, NF | |
3 | natural (good 3), F | |
3 4 | 13+, splinter, GF | |
3 N | 12-14, NF |
Conversely, jump minor raises are weak, typically 6-9 with 5+ trumps.
1 ? | P | 3 | P | 273 |
Pass | most common | |
3 3 4 | 4+ cards or strength, F | |
3 N | 18-19, NF |
Higher minor raises (1 4 or 1 5 ) are also weak (6-9) but indicate wilder distribution.
After an opening bid of 1 of a suit, all jumps in unbid suits to any level are weak, except for a double jump-shift response to a major, which is defined as a splinter bid. Typical holdings depend on the level.
1 | P | ? | 281 |
2 2 2 | 2-5 HCP, 6 cards or good 5 | |
3 3 3 | 2-7 HCP, 7 cards or good 6 | |
4 4 4 | 2-7 HCP, 8 cards or good 7 | |
5 5 5 | schizoid on parole? |
When jumping to 3 or 4 in a suit below game, playing tricks are more important than HCP or suit length. Responder should have 4 tricks less than his bid, so opener can judge when to bid game.
1 ? | P | 2 | P | 282 |
Pass | well advised | |
2 3 3 | natural, extreme shape, no fit, NF | |
2 N* | | AF, game try |
3 | blocking, NF | |
3 4 4 | natural, extreme shape, no fit, I | |
3 N (rare) | natural, no fit, based on own hand | |
4 | good fit, may be blocking |
*same structure as after weak two-bids
1 ? | P | 3 | P | 283 |
Pass | well advised | |
3 3 4 | natural, extreme shape, no fit, NF | |
3 N* | natural, K-x or better, NF | |
4 | diamond fit, I | |
4 4 | natural, extreme shape, no fit |
*responder should pull with no ace or king anywhere
After an opening bid of 1 of a suit, a 2 N response shows a balanced hand of 15+ HCP, usually with no 4 card major biddable at the 1 level, but may contain one if flat (4-3-3-3) with the other unbid suits stopped. This bid neither shows nor denies support for openers suit.
1 ? | P | 2 N | P | 291 |
3 3 3 | 4+ cards, usually 5+ diamonds | |
3 | 6+ diamonds | |
3 N | 12-14, NF | |
4 4 | 15+, self-splinter, agrees diamonds | |
4 | 15+, agrees diamonds | |
4 | super Gerber |
1 ? | P | 2 N | P | 292 |
3 3 3 | 4+ cards | |
3 | 6+ spades | |
3 N | 12-14, NF | |
4 4 4 | 15+, self-splinter, agrees spades* | |
4 | 15-16, agrees spades* |
*hence responders 4 N is then Blackwood
Responder is presumed to have 15-17 HCP, so with 18+ he must bid past 3 N. Bidding an unbid suit shows strength and implies support for openers last shown suit, unless opener bid a major that responder bypassed at the 1 level, then openers first suit.
1 3 | P P | 2 N ? | P | 293 |
3 4 | strength in suit, club fit | |
3 N | 15-17, NF | |
4 | working cards, club fit | |
4 | 15-17, 4 hearts, 4-3-3-3 | |
4 | super Gerber |
1 3 | P P | 2 N ? | P | 294 |
3 | 3+ hearts | |
3 4 | strength in suit, diamond fit | |
3 N | 15-17, NF | |
4 | working cards, diamond fit | |
4 | 15-17, working cards, 3+ hearts, NF | |
4 | super Gerber |
1 3 N | P P | 2 N ? | P | 295 |
Pass | 15-17 | |
4 4 4 | 18+, strength in suit, spade fit | |
4 | 15-17, spade fit |
If we raise a major from 1 to 2, whether an opening bid, response or rebid, game tries are launched by the cheapest bid (2 or 2 N) to ask about dummys hand. Purpose is to allow effective game tries without revealing information about the closed hand. Other suit bids become slam tries.
1 ? | P | 2 | P | 301 |
2 | AF, asking | |
2 N | balanced, I | |
3 3 3 | | natural ST (4+ cards) |
3 | blocking | |
3 N | choice of games | |
4 4 | splinter, ST |
1 ? | P | 2 | P | 302 |
2 N | AF, asking | |
3 3 3 | | natural ST (4+ cards) |
Other | analogous to #301 |
After the artificial ask, if dummy has a suit with secondary values (3+ cards with king or queen, or both) he should show it; otherwise he defines his strength.
1 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 303 |
2 N | | spade values |
3 3 | values in suit bid | |
3 | minimum | |
3 | | maximum, flat (4-3-3-3), suggests 3 N |
4 | maximum |
1 2 N | P P | 2 ? | P | 304 |
3 3 3 | values in suit bid | |
3 | minimum | |
3 N | maximum, flat (4-3-3-3), NF | |
4 | maximum |
When dummy shows secondary values, asker may base his decision on that or inquire further.
1 2 ? | P P | 2 3 | P P | 305 |
3 | relay, asks if min or max | |
3 | turned off by club values | |
3 N | choice of games |
1 2 N ? | P P | 2 3 | P P | 306 |
3 * | asks to pass with min | |
Other | analogous to #305 |
*does not imply heart dislike (no relay available)
If dummy is asked if min or max, he simply bids (or passes) 3 of the major with a minimum.
If asker bids a suit between 3 and 4 of the raised major, it is a slam try with a 1-suited hand.
If an opponent bids after our raise from 1 to 2, the relay structure is off; game tries are then made in the traditional manner by bidding a different suit. Note that early interference (before our raise to 2) and doubles of any kind change nothing.
After a 1 , 1 or 1 opening and a non-touching 1-level response, openers 2-level bid in a suit between (higher than suit opened but nonjump) shows 17+ points and is forcing. Opener shows 9+ cards in his two suits, typically 5-4, but 6-3 is plausible on awkward hands.
1 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 311 |
2 | 6-10, 5+ hearts, F | |
2 | 11+, nondescript, GF | |
2 N | 6-10, not 5 hearts, F | |
3 3 3 | 11+, natural, GF | |
3 | 11+, splinter, diamond raise | |
3 N | 11-12, NF |
1 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 312 |
2 | 6-10, 5+ spades, F | |
2 N | 6-10, not 5 spades, F | |
3 | 11+, nondescript, GF | |
3 3 3 | 11+, natural, GF | |
3 N | 11-12, NF | |
4 | 11+, splinter, heart raise |
1 2 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 313 |
2 3 | 9-10, strength in suit bid, GF | |
2 N | 6-10, nondescript, F | |
3 3 | 9-10, natural, GF | |
3 N | 9-10, NF |
1 2 | P P | 1 N ? | P | 314 |
2 N | 6-10, nondescript, F | |
3 3 | 6+, 5+ cards, F | |
3 | 11+, 3 hearts, GF | |
3 | 11+, Q-x-x or better, GF | |
3 N | 11-12, NF | |
4 4 | 11+, values in bid, 3 hearts | |
4 | 11-12, 3 hearts |
1 2 | P P | 1 ? | 2 | 315 |
2 N | natural (stopper), F | |
3 | weak, NF | |
Cue | nondescript, GF | |
Other | analogous to #314 |
After a reverse, opener must bid again below game (except in competition after a preference or pass). If responder shows a weak range and opener has less than GF values, opener must bid 2 N, 3 of his original suit (even with only 5 cards), or raise responders 5+ major to 3.
1 2 ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 316 |
2 | ace or shortness, GF | |
2 N | 17-18, NF | |
3 | 17-18, 5+ clubs, NF | |
3 | 5 diamonds, 6+ clubs, GF | |
3 | 17-18, at least Q-x, NF | |
3 | splinter, heart raise, ST | |
3 N 4 | natural, NF | |
4 | 7+ clubs, F |
1 2 ? | P P | 1 2 N | P P | 317 |
3 | ace or shortness, GF | |
3 | 17-18, 5+ diamonds, NF | |
3 | 5 hearts, 6+ diamonds, GF | |
3 | at least Q-x-x, GF* | |
3 N | natural, NF | |
4 | self-splinter, agrees diamonds, ST | |
4 | agrees diamonds, F |
*forcing because responder denied 5 spades
1 2 ? | P P | 1 N 2 N | P P | 318 |
3 3 | 3-4 cards, GF | |
3 | 17-18, 6 hearts*, NF | |
3 | 5 spades, 6+ hearts, GF | |
3 N 4 | natural, NF | |
4 4 | self-splinter, agrees hearts, ST |
*with 5 hearts opener would not bid 2 with 17-18
Except for the usual fourth suit forcing and special cases described, bidding the fourth suit (for the first time) shows the ace or shortness.
1 2 ? | P P | 1 3 | P P | 321 |
3 | ace or shortness | |
Other | natural |
1 2 3 | P P P | 2 2 ? | P P | 322 |
3 | ace or shortness | |
Other | natural |
Partner assumes the ace and may bid 3 N with no stopper, which fourth-suit bidder removes if based on shortness.
If partner is a passed hand, a number of changes apply, most of which are obvious. Opening bids of 1 of a suit may be light (10+) and 1 or 1 may be a good 4 card suit.
Normally forcing responses (1-over-1, 1 N response to major, 2 over 1 , 2 over 1 , inverted minors) are now limited. Opener should pass with 12 or less, and may pass with 13. If opener does bid again, his rebids retain their normal meaning, including F/NF status.
A 2 N response to a minor shows 11-12 HCP, invitational. Any rebid by opener below game (including 3 of his minor) is forcing.
A 3 response to 1 , 1 or 1 shows 8-11 HCP and 6+ clubs, NF of course, but any rebid by opener below game is forcing. (This only applies in clubs because other suits would have been opened a weak two-bid.)
Cue-bid (P P 1 1 ; 2 ) shows stopper but openers 2 N or same suit says no game.
Responders second-round jump bids and raises to 3 of a minor (normally forcing) are now invitational.
Fourth suit forcing and new minor forcing still apply; being a passed hand just allows more ways to invite.
Third suit forcing does not apply.
P 1 ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 331 |
2 | 9-12, 4+ hearts, NF | |
2 | 6-10, NF | |
2 N | 10-12, I | |
3 | 9-12, 5+ clubs, NF | |
3 3 | 11-12, I |
After a 1 or 1 opening in third or fourth seat, responses of 2 and 2 are artificial raises.
P ? | P | 1 | P | 341 |
2 | 11+, 3 hearts | |
2 | 11+, 4 hearts | |
2 | 7-10, 3+ hearts | |
3 | 11-12, 5 hearts | |
4 | weak, extreme shape |
P 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 342 |
2 | game interest | |
2 | no game interest | |
Other | game try structure |
P 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 343 |
2 | game interest | |
2 | 4+ hearts, game interest | |
2 | no game interest | |
Other | game try structure |
P 2 | P P | 1 ? | P | 344 |
2 | game interest | |
2 | no game interest | |
Other | game try structure |
If opener shows game interest, it may still be possible to stop in 2 of the major.
P 2 ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 345 |
2 | minimal values, discouraging | |
Other | game try structure (dummy role)* |
P 2 ? | P P | 1 2 | P P | 346 |
2 | minimal values, discouraging | |
Other | game try structure (dummy role)* |
*Except 2 N shows values in last bid suit, and other suits show values naturally.
Opener can also invoke the game try structure when responder returns to 2 of the major.
The artificial 2 and 2 raises do not apply in competition. If an opponent interferes after the bid, the usual countermeasures apply.
P 2 | P X | 1 ? | P | 347 |
Pass | 3+ clubs | |
Rdbl | 4+ strong clubs | |
Other | unchanged |
P 2 | P 2 | 1 ? | P | 348 |
Pass | no game interest | |
Dbl | penalty | |
2 | no game interest, competitive | |
2 N | game try structure |
P 2 | P 2 | 1 ? | P | 349 |
Pass | no game interest | |
Dbl | penalty | |
2 N | natural, I | |
3 3 | seminatural game try, F | |
3 | competitive |
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
If our opening bid of 1 of a suit is doubled for takeout, the following changes apply.
1 | X | ? | 371 |
Pass | 0-9, or 10-14* | |
Rdbl | 10+ HCP, implies no fit, creates force | |
Suit bids | unchanged | |
1 N | unchanged | |
2 N | 9-11, natural, based on fit, I | |
3 N | 12-15, natural, based on fit, NF |
*if intention is to make a cooperative double next
1 | X | ? | 372 |
2 | 6-10, 6+ clubs (good 5), NF | |
Other | same as #371 |
Note that inverted minor raises and weak jump shifts are unchanged after a double.
1 | X | ? | 373 |
Pass | 0-9, or 10-14 | |
Rdbl | 10+ HCP, implies no fit, creates force | |
1 2 | unchanged | |
1 N | 6-10, balanced, NF | |
2 2 | 6-10, 6+ cards (good 5), NF | |
2 N | 10-12, 4+ fit (rare 3) | |
3 3 | unchanged | |
3 | 6-9, 4+ fit | |
Higher | unchanged |
1 | X | ? | 374 |
2 2 2 | 6-10, 6+ cards (good 5), NF | |
2 3 | unchanged | |
3 | 6-9, 4+ fit | |
Other | same as #373 |
Note that 3 N major raise and splinter bids are unchanged.
A takeout double in itself does not affect our rebid structure after any response that is unchanged. If an opponent bids after the double, we revert to a limit structure.
If our opening bid of 1 of a suit is overcalled in a natural unbid suit, the following changes apply.
1 | 1 | ? | 381 |
Dbl | 6+, at least 4-4 majors | |
1 N | 7-10, stopper | |
Cue | 13+, balanced, stopper, GF | |
2 N | 11-12, stopper, I | |
Jump cue | 13+, splinter raise | |
3 N | 9-12, natural, based on fit | |
Other | unchanged |
1 | 1 | ? | 382 |
Dbl | 6+, 4 spades | |
1 | 6+, 5+ spades, F | |
2 | 10+, 5+ diamonds, F | |
Other | same as #381 |
1 | 1 | ? | 383 |
Dbl | 7+, 4+ hearts | |
2 2 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
Other | same as #381 |
1 | 2 | ? | 384 |
Dbl | 7+, at least 1 major | |
2 2 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
2 N | 10-12, stopper, I | |
Other | same as #381 |
Note that inverted minor raises and weak jump shifts are unchanged after a suit overcall.
1 | 1 | ? | 385 |
Dbl | 7+, at least 4-4 minors | |
1 N | 7-10, stopper | |
2 2 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
Cue | 13+, balanced, stopper, GF | |
2 N | 11-12, stopper, I | |
Jump cue | 13+, splinter raise | |
3 N | | 13+, 3+ fit, no control in opps suit |
4 4 | | weak, natural |
Other | unchanged |
1 | 2 | ? | 386 |
Dbl | 7+, 4+ spades | |
2 2 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
2 N | 10-12, stopper, I | |
3 4 | | weak, natural |
Other | same as #385 |
1 | 2 | ? | 387 |
Dbl | 7+, 4+ spades | |
2 3 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
3 4 | | weak, natural |
Other | same as #385 |
1 | 2 | ? | 388 |
Dbl | 8+, at least 4-4 minors | |
3 3 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
Other | same as #385 |
Note that splinter bids in competition only apply in enemy suits.
After a negative double it is openers duty to select the contract. With no clear bid it is better to bid a 3 card suit that responder might have than to rebid a 5 card suit already shown. Opener should rebid at the cheapest level with 13-15, jump with 16-18 (invitational below game) or cue-bid as the only force (GF). Passing for penalty is also a viable option at the 2 level with 4+ trumps.
1 ? | 1 | X | P | 389 |
1 N 2 | 13-15, natural, NF | |
2 | 19+, nondescript, GF | |
2 N* 3 | 16-18, I | |
3 N | 19+, NF |
*may be off-shape hence 16-17 is possible
If responder bids again after a negative double, assuming opener has not shown extras, only a cue-bid is forcing (GF). Preferences and new suit bids are NF; 2 N, raises, and jumps below game are invitational.
1 2 | 1 P | X ? | P | 390 |
2 2 | 7-9, 5+ cards, NF | |
2 | 13+, nondescript, GF | |
2 N | 10-12, stopper, I | |
3 | 10-12, Q-x or better, I | |
3 3 | 10-12, 6+ cards, I | |
3 | 13+, splinter raise | |
3 N | 13+, stopper, NF |
Competitive 2-over-1 responses (10+) are forcing for one round (think Acol). If opener rebids his original suit, bids 2 N or raises responders suit, it is NF and confirms minimum values. New suits are forcing for another round. Only a cue-bid or jump below game creates a GF.
1 ? | 1 | 2 | P | 391 |
2 | 16+, nondescript, GF | |
2 N 3 3 | minimum, NF | |
3 | any strength, 4+ clubs, F | |
3 | 16+, splinter raise | |
3 N | 15-19, NF | |
4 4 | 16+, extreme shape, F | |
4 | 15-17, NF |
If responder bids again when opener has not shown extras, similar principles apply. Bidding 2 N or any of our previously bid suits is NF and confirms minimum values. A new suit, cue-bid or jump below game is GF.
1 2 | 2 P | 2 ? | P | 392 |
2 | minimum, Q-x or better, NF | |
2 N 3 | minimum, NF | |
3 | 13+, nondescript, GF | |
3 | minimum, Q-x-x or better, NF | |
3 | 13+, 3+ spades, GF | |
3 N | 13+, NF | |
4 | 13+, splinter, heart raise | |
4 | 13+, extreme shape, F | |
4 4 | 13-15, NF |
Note that responders preference or raise of a forcing bid does not promise a normal trump fit.
After our opening bid of 1 of a suit, if an opponent jumps in a natural suit, the following changes apply.
1 | 2 | ? | 401 |
Dbl | 7+, at least 1 major | |
2 2 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
2 N | 10-12, stopper, I | |
3 | 8-11, 4+ clubs, NF | |
Cue | 13+, balanced, stopper, GF | |
3 N | 9-12, based on fit, NF | |
Jump cue | 13+, splinter raise | |
Other | unchanged |
1 | 2 | ? | 402 |
Dbl | 7+, 4+ spades | |
2 3 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
Other | same as #401 |
1 | 2 | ? | 403 |
Dbl | 8+, 4+ hearts | |
3 3 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
Other | same as #401 |
1 | 2 | ? | 404 |
Dbl | 8+, at least 4-4 minors | |
2 N | 10-12, stopper, I | |
3 3 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
3 | 7-10, 3+ hearts, NF | |
Cue | 13+, balanced, stopper, GF | |
3 N | | 13+, 3+ hearts, no spade control |
4 4 | | weak, natural |
4 | 11-12, 3+ hearts, NF |
Subsequent bidding is essentially the same as after a 2-level nonjump overcall, so the previous structures for Rebids after a negative double and Rebids after a 2-over-1 response would apply.
1 | 3 | ? | 405 |
Dbl | 8+, at least 1 major | |
3 | 8-11, 4+ diamonds, NF | |
3 3 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
3 N | 10-15, stopper | |
Cue | 13+, fit, enemy control | |
4 4 4 | weak, natural, NF |
1 | 3 | ? | 406 |
4 | 10-12, 4+ clubs, NF | |
Other | same as #405 |
1 | 3 | ? | 407 |
Dbl | 8+, 4+ spades | |
3 4 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
Other | same as #405 |
1 | 3 | ? | 408 |
Dbl | 9+, 4+ hearts | |
4 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
4 | 10-15, 5+ cards, NF | |
Other | same as #405 |
1 | 3 | ? | 409 |
Dbl | 9+, at least 4-4 minors | |
4 4 | 10+, 5+ cards, F | |
4 | 9-15, 3+ cards, NF | |
Other | same as #405 |
Subsequent bidding is mostly common sense.
1 | 4 | ? | 410 |
Dbl | 10+, at least 1 major | |
4 | 10-12, 4+ diamonds, NF | |
4 4 | 10-16, 5+ cards, NF | |
5 | 16+, diamond fit, club control | |
5 | 13-16, 5+ diamonds, NF |
1 | 4 | ? | 411 |
Dbl | 10+, at least 1 major | |
4 4 5 | 10-16, natural, NF |
1 | 4 | ? | 412 |
Dbl | 10+, 4+ spades | |
4 5 5 | 10-16, natural, NF |
1 | 4 | ? | 413 |
Dbl | penalty | |
5 5 5 | 10-16, natural, NF |
After our opening bid of 1 of a suit, these structures apply if an opponent makes an overcall that shows two suits, at least one of which is known. Michaels and unusual 2 N are the most common, but many others exist.
1 | 2 1 | ? | 1. both majors | 421 |
Dbl | 10+ HCP, creates force | |
2 | 7-10, 6+ diamonds (rare 5), NF | |
2 | | 11+, club raise |
2 | | 11+, 5+ diamonds |
2 N | 9-11, based on fit, I | |
3 | 7-10, 4+ clubs, NF | |
3 4 | weak, natural, NF | |
3 3 | 13+, splinter raise | |
3 N | 12-14, based on fit, NF |
1 | 2 1 | ? | 1. both majors | 422 |
2 | | 11+, diamond raise |
2 | | 11+, 5+ clubs |
3 | 7-10, 6+ clubs, NF | |
3 | 7-10, 4+ diamonds, NF | |
Other | same as #421 |
1 | 2 1 | ? | 1. spades + minor | 423 |
Dbl | 10+ HCP, creates force | |
2 | | 11+, heart raise |
2 N | 9-11, based on fit, I | |
3 3 | 7-10, 6+ cards, NF | |
3 | 7-10, 3+ hearts | |
3 | 13+, splinter raise | |
3 N | 12-14, based on fit, NF | |
4 4 4 | weak, natural, NF |
1 | 2 1 | ? | 1. hearts + minor | 424 |
3 | 11+, spade raise | |
3 | 7-10, 3+ spades | |
4 | 13+, splinter raise | |
4 4 4 | weak, natural, NF | |
Other | same as #423 |
1 | 2 N1 | ? | 1. both minors | 425 |
Dbl | 10+ HCP, creates force | |
3 | | 11+, heart raise |
3 | | 11+, 5+ spades |
3 | 7-10, 3+ hearts, NF | |
3 | 7-10, 6+ spades (rare 5), NF | |
3 N | 10-14, based on fit, NF | |
4 4 | 13+, splinter raise | |
4 4 | weak, natural, NF |
1 | 2 N1 | ? | 1. both minors | 426 |
3 | | 11+, spade raise |
3 | | 11+, 5+ hearts |
3 | 7-10, 6+ hearts (rare 5), NF | |
3 | 7-10, 3+ spades, NF | |
Other | same as #425 |
Note that cheaper cue is always a raise of opener, and higher cue (if both suits known) shows the fourth suit.
After the higher cue, if opener rebids in notrump or his original suit, this confirms a minimum and is NF. A raise of responders indicated suit is forcing below game.
After doubling, if responder next bids a new suit or a suit shown by the enemy, it is natural and forcing below game.
If responder passes the two-suited overcall and later bids a suit shown by the enemy, it is natural and NF.
After our opening bid of 1 of a suit and a natural 1 N overcall (regardless of strength) the following changes apply.
1 | 1 N | ? | 431 |
Dbl | 10+ HCP, creates force | |
2 | | 6+, both majors |
2 2 2 | 6-9, 6+ cards (good 5), NF | |
2 N | 10+, any 2-suiter, AF | |
Higher | unchanged |
1 | 1 N | ? | 432 |
2 | 6-9, 6+ clubs (good 5) | |
2 | | 6+, both majors |
Other | same as #431 |
Note that majors are shown by a minor raise and the unbid minor is natural.
1 | 1 N | ? | 433 |
Dbl | 10+ HCP, creates force | |
2 2 2 | 6-9, 6+ cards (good 5) | |
2 3 4 | unchanged | |
3 3 | unchanged | |
2 N | 10+, any 2-suiter, AF | |
3 4 4 | | weak, natural |
Many doubles below 3 N, while traditionally penalty, are better played as competitive to show a desire to compete without clear direction. Unfortunately, these situations cant be chosen at whim, because penalty doubles are important too. Firm agreements are essential to avoid misunderstandings.
A prerequisite for any competitive double is that we are not in a force, i.e., we have not redoubled or otherwise indicated partnership assets of 23+ HCP where a pass would be forcing.
Given the above, all doubles at the 1 level are competitive unless defined otherwise.
Four conditions must be met for a competitive double at the 2 or 3 level: | 441 |
1. All four players have acted (bid or doubled) |
2. We have not bid notrump |
3. We have not raised a suit |
4. No enemy action was in balancing seat |
Minimum strength for a competitive double is about 3 points more than previously shown. There is no upper limit, so the double is also useful on game-going hands.
Competitive doubles are often misused. Counter examples may clarify:
1 P | P P | 1 X | 2 | penalty (only one opponent acted) |
1 1 N | P 2 | 1 X | 1 | penalty (we bid notrump) |
1 X | 2 | 2 | 3 | penalty (we raised a suit) |
1 2 X | X P | 1 P | P 2 | penalty (opponent balanced) |
Partner of competitive doubler should choose the contract from alternatives suggested by the bidding. Any nonjump (even a new suit) is NF; jumps below game are invitational. Passing the double is a viable option with 4 trumps, or three trumps at the 3 level.
An exception to Condition 3 occurs when we have raised a major and cannot make a game try because the enemy bid the touching lower suit. Condition 1, however, is not changed (both opponents must have acted).
1 ? | X | 2 | 3 | 442 |
Dbl | game try | |
3 | competitive |
1 ? | 2 | 2 | 3 | 443 |
Dbl | penalty | |
3 | artificial game try | |
3 | competitive |
A cooperative double is a penalty suggestion at the 2 or 3 level. Doubler typically has 3+ cards in the suit doubled but not a trump stack.
The following doubles are cooperative: | 451 |
1. After eschewing a redouble or force-double |
2. After partner redoubled or made a force-double |
3. Balancing seat in front of the opponent who bid |
4. Of a suit in which 4 cards were denied |
5. After a competitive double at previous turn |
1 P | X 2 | P X | 1 N | cooperative |
Note that failure to redouble does not limit responders strength but rules out a trump stack.
1 X | X | R | 2 | cooperative |
1 P | P P | 1 X | 2 | cooperative |
1 P | P 2 | 1 N X | X | cooperative |
1 X X | P P | 1 2 | 1 2 | cooperative |
1 P 3 | X 2 3 | 1 X X | 1 P | cooperative |
Partner should usually remove a cooperative double with a singleton or void in the enemy suit, or with a shapely hand that is unsuitable for defense. Limit bidding principles apply.
After our 1-over-1 response, openers competitive rebids retain their usual meaning provided opener is not restricted because a cheaper bid in the same strain is eliminated by the interference. If opener is restricted, a nonjump bid that would otherwise be a jump may be shaded to compete. Jump shifts and cue-bids are GF.
1 ? | P | 1 | 2 | 461 |
Dbl | penalty | |
2 2 | unchanged | |
2 N | 16-17, stopper, I | |
3 | 16-18, 4+ cards, NF | |
3 | 19+, nondescript, GF | |
3 3 | unchanged | |
3 N | 18-19, stopper, NF | |
4 | 19+, at least 5-5, F | |
4 | 19+, splinter raise | |
4 4 | unchanged |
1 ? | P | 1 | 2 | 462 |
Dbl | penalty | |
2 N | 18-19, stopper, I | |
3 | 14-18, 6+ clubs, NF | |
3 | 16-18, 4 diamonds, NF | |
3 | 14-16 | |
3 | 19+, nondescript, GF | |
3 N | unchanged | |
4 4 | natural, extreme shape, I | |
4 | 17+ |
If a nonjump suit overcall is passed around to opener, no additional strength is required to reopen because partner may have trap-passed with a trump stack, hence his strength is not limited.
1 ? | 1 | P | P | 463 |
Pass | minimum, 3+ spades | |
Dbl | takeout, usually 1 or 2 spades | |
1 N | 18-19, stopper, NF | |
2 2 | natural, NF | |
2 | 17+, natural, NF | |
2 | 19+, 6+ strong diamonds, F | |
2 N | 16-19, stopper, 6+ diamonds, I | |
3 3 3 | 19+, natural, I |
Any suit bid implies extreme shape or a spade void, else double is preferred.
If the opening bid is passed by partner and RHO balances, opener must tread with caution. All actions show extra strength, and no bids are forcing, except of course a cue-bid for 1 round only.
1 ? | P | P | X | 464 |
Pass | 13-18 | |
Rdbl | 18+, nondescript | |
1 N | 18-19 | |
1 2 2 | 16+, at least 6-4 or 5-5 | |
2 | 16+, 6+ strong hearts | |
2 N | 18-19, 6+ strong hearts | |
2 3 | 19+, natural, shapely |
1 ? | P | P | 1 | 465 |
Dbl | 16+, takeout | |
2 | 19+, spade void, 3-suiter, F | |
Other | same as #464 |
After our 1-over-1 response, the system dictates a forcing style without interference (or if the only interference is a takeout double) in that responders second-round jumps in previously bid suits and raises to 3 of a minor are GF. Once an opponent bids this reverts to a limit style where such bids are invitational, and a cue-bid is a general GF.
1 2 | 1 P | 1 ? | P | 471 |
2 | 11+, 4+ diamonds (rare 3), F | |
2 | 13+, nondescript, GF | |
2 | 6-10, 6+ spades, NF | |
2 N | 10-12, stopper, I | |
3 | 10-12, Q-x or better, I | |
3 | 13+, at least 5-5, GF | |
3 | 15+, splinter raise, GF | |
3 | 11-12, 6+ spades, I | |
3 N | 13-16, stopper, NF | |
4 | 10-12, great fit, I |
1 P | P P | 1 ? | 1 | 472 |
Dbl | 9+, competitive | |
1 N | 7-10, stopper, NF | |
2 | 11+, 4+ clubs (rare 3) | |
2 | 7-10, 3+ diamonds, NF | |
2 | 7-10, 6+ hearts | |
2 | 13+, nondescript, GF | |
2 N | 11-12, stopper, I | |
3 | 13+, at least 5-5, GF | |
3 | 11-12, 4+ diamonds, I | |
3 | 11-12, 6+ hearts, I | |
3 | 16+, self-splinter, agrees hearts, GF | |
3 N | 13-16, stopper, NF | |
4 | 11-12, great fit, I | |
4 | 13-16, 6+ strong hearts, NF |
New minor forcing applies in competition, but alternative rebids follow the limit style.
1 1 N | P P | 1 ? | 1 | 473 |
2 2 | natural, sign-off attempt | |
2 | 11+, AF, checkback | |
2 | 13+, nondescript, GF | |
2 N 3 3 | natural, I | |
3 | 13+, at least 5-5, GF | |
3 | 16+, self-splinter, agrees hearts, GF | |
3 N 4 | sign-off | |
4 | 11-12, extreme shape, I |
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
An opening bid of 2 is strong, artificial and forcing, typically 23+ points or within a trick of game in hand.
Responder must either categorize his HCP range or show a suit headed by K-Q or better.
2 | P | ? | 491 |
2 | 0-4 HCP (no ace) or 8+ HCP or A+K | |
2 | 5-8 HCP or an ace (no A+K) | |
2 | | any 5 card suit, 2 of top 3 |
2 N | | any 5 card suit, A-K-Q |
3 suit | 6 cards, 2 of top 3 | |
3 N | | any 6 card suit, A-K-Q |
4 suit | 7 cards, 2 of top 3 | |
4 N | | any 7 card suit, A-K-Q |
Note that with exactly 8 HCP (lacking A+K) responder may bid 2 or 2 per judgment.
Responder is presumed to have 0-4 HCP for all rebids. With 8+ HCP (or ace + king) he bids the same as with 0-4 under game but must continue voluntarily past game to show it.
2 ? | P | 2 | P | 492 |
2 * | | 5+ hearts or 25+ HCP balanced |
2 3 3 | 5+ cards, F | |
2 N | 23-24, balanced, NF (system on) | |
3 N | | 6+ card minor, game in hand, NF |
*forces 2 (Kokish relay)
2 2 ? | P P | 2 2 | P P | 493 |
2 N | 25+, balanced, GF (system on) | |
3 3 3 | 4+ cards, 5+ hearts, F | |
3 4 | 6+ hearts, NF | |
3 N | 5-6 hearts, balanced or semi, NF |
2 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 494 |
2 N | waiting | |
3 3 3 | 5+ cards | |
3 | 3+ spades | |
4 4 4 | splinter raise | |
4 | 2-4 HCP, 4+ spades, no side-suit control |
2 2 ? | P P | 2 2 N | P P | 495 |
3 3 3 | 4+ cards | |
3 4 | 6+ spades, NF | |
3 N | 5-6 spades, balanced or semi, NF |
2 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 496 |
3 | waiting | |
3 3 | 5+ cards | |
3 N | | 5+ diamonds, NF |
4 | 3+ clubs | |
4 4 4 | splinter raise |
2 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 497 |
3 | | waiting |
3 | 5+ spades | |
3 N | | 5+ hearts, NF |
4 | 6+ clubs | |
4 | 3+ diamonds | |
4 4 | splinter raise |
2 ? | P | 2 | P | 498 |
2 3 | 5+ cards, GF | |
2 N | 23+ HCP balanced, GF (system on) | |
3 N | 6+ card minor, game in hand, NF |
2 2 | P P | 2 ? | P | 499 |
2 N | waiting | |
3 3 3 | 5+ cards | |
3 | 3+ spades | |
4 4 4 | splinter raise |
2 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 500 |
3 | waiting | |
3 3 | 5+ cards | |
3 N | | 5+ diamonds, NF |
4 | 3+ clubs | |
4 4 4 | splinter raise |
2 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 501 |
3 | | waiting |
3 | 5+ spades | |
3 N | | 5+ hearts, NF |
4 | 6+ clubs | |
4 | 3+ diamonds | |
4 4 5 | splinter raise (must have 1 ace) |
2 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 502 |
3 | | waiting |
3 N | | 5+ spades, NF |
4 4 | 6+ cards | |
4 | 3+ hearts, NF | |
4 5 5 | splinter raise (must have 1 ace) |
2 ? | P | 2 | P | 503 |
2 N | 23+ HCP balanced, GF (system on) | |
3 suit | 5+ cards | |
3 N | 6+ card minor, game in hand, NF |
If opener rebids in a suit, responder bids his suit at the 3 level if possible.
2 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 504 |
3 3 | my suit | |
3 N | no fit, my suit is clubs, NF | |
4 | 3+ diamonds, clubs are A-K or A-Q | |
4 | 3+ diamonds, clubs are K-Q |
2 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 505 |
3 | my suit | |
3 N | no fit, my suit is a minor, NF | |
4 4 | 3+ hearts, suit is A-K or A-Q | |
4 | 3+ hearts, minor suit is K-Q, NF |
2 3 | P P | 2 ? | P | 506 |
3 N | no fit, NF | |
4 4 4 | 3+ spades, suit is A-K or A-Q | |
4 | 3+ spades, suit is K-Q, NF |
2 ? | P | 3 | P | 507 |
Other suit | 5+ cards, F below game | |
3 N | misfit, NF | |
Raise | F below game |
2 ? | P | 2 N | P | 508 |
Any suit* | fit or 5+ cards, F | |
Notrump* | natural, F |
*Opener is presumed to know responders A-K-Q suit, and slam must be reached.
2 | X | ? | 509 |
Pass | 3+ clubs | |
Rdbl | 4+ clubs (Q-10-x-x or better) | |
Other | unchanged |
2 | 2 | ? | 510 |
Dbl | penalty (Q-10-x-x or better) | |
2 N | 5+, stopper | |
3 3 3 | 5+ HCP, 5+ cards | |
3 | 5+ HCP, 3-suiter, short spades |
2 ? | 2 | P | P | 511 |
Dbl | penalty | |
2 N | 23-24, balanced, NF | |
3 3 3 | 5+ cards, F | |
3 | 3-suiter, short spades | |
3 N* | 25-28, balanced, NF | |
4 N* | 29-30, balanced, NF |
*if responder bids again, follow opening 2 N structure 1 or 2 levels higher.
All doubles by opener or responder are penalty, and all direct passes are forcing.
If opener bids an enemy shown suit that he could not double for penalty, it is natural (enemy bid was probably a psych).
If responder has not acted, a suit bid by opener below game is forcing, and the cheapest response is an artificial waiting bid.
If 2 opener jumps in a suit at his second turn (including an enemy shown suit that he could not double for penalty) it is natural and sets trumps.
If openers suit jump is: | 512 |
Below game | F, partner should bid any control | |
Game | NF, no slam opposite expected range |
Note that previous use as a specific ace ask is now abolished, as any such hand should open 3 N.
An opening bid of 2 , 2 or 2 shows 5-10 HCP. Style is undisciplined but sensible. Good 5 cards suits (typically 3 of top 5 cards) are acceptable at any vulnerability, and decent 5 cards suits when nonvulnerable.
2 | P | ? | 521 |
2 2 | 12-17, 6+ cards (rare 5), NF | |
2 N | 15+, AF | |
3 | 12-17, 6+ cards, NF | |
3 4 5 | blocking, NF | |
3 3 | self-sufficient suit, I | |
3 N | natural, NF | |
4 | | trump ask |
4 4 5 | sign-off |
2 ? | P | 2 N | P* | 522 |
3 | only 5 diamonds, AF | |
3 | minimum | |
3 3 | stopper in bid, max | |
3 N | no major stopper, max | |
4 4 | natural, extreme shape |
2 ? | P | 2 N | P* | 523 |
3 | only 5 hearts, AF | |
3 | average or max, AF | |
3 | worst hand | |
3 | 4 spades | |
3 N | A-K-J-x-x-x or better | |
4 4 | natural, at least 6-4 | |
4 | self-sufficient suit |
2 ? | P | 2 N | P* | 524 |
3 | 4 hearts | |
3 | worst hand | |
Other | analogous to #523 |
*If opponent doubles: 3 = 5-carder with 4 clubs; pass (min) or redouble (max) = 5-carder without 4 clubs.
2 3 | P P | 2 N ? | P | 525 |
3 | AF, asks if min/max* | |
3 3 N | sign-off | |
3 4 | 5+ cards, F | |
4 | | trump ask |
4 4 5 m | sign-off |
*opener returns to his suit if minimum
2 3 | P P | 2 N ? | P | 526 |
3 | natural, I* | |
3 4 | 5+ cards, F | |
3 N | game sign-off, opener may bid 4 | |
4 | | trump ask |
4 4 5 m | sign-off |
*opener passes with average, accepts with max
2 3 | P P | 2 N ? | P | 527 |
3 | sign-off | |
3 3 | 5+ cards, F | |
3 N | sign-off | |
4 | | trump ask |
4 | good fit, I | |
4 4 5 m | sign-off |
2 | X | ? | 528 |
Pass* | 0+ (unlimited) | |
Rdbl | strong, creates force | |
New suit | natural, may be weak, NF | |
Other | unchanged |
*if followed by double below 3 N it is cooperative
2 | 2 | ? | 529 |
Dbl | penalty | |
Cue | control, ST | |
Other | unchanged |
2 ? | P | 2 N | 3 | 530 |
Pass | minimum | |
Dbl | reasonable defense | |
Bid | natural, offense oriented |
Opening suit bids of 3 thru 5 are weak, generally by the rule of 2, 3 or 4 per vulnerability.
3 | P | ? | 541 |
3 3 3 | 5+ cards, F | |
3 N* | natural, NF | |
4 | blocking | |
4 | | trump ask |
4 4 5 | sign-off |
*opener may pull with no ace or king
3 | P | ? | 542 |
4 | | trump ask |
Other | analogous to #541 |
3 | P | ? | 543 |
3 4 | 5+ cards, F | |
3 N | sign-off | |
4 | | trump ask |
4 4 5 m | sign-off | |
5 | blocking |
3 | P | ? | 544 |
4 | 6+ hearts, NF | |
Other | analogous to #543 |
4 | P | ? | 545 |
4 | | trump ask |
4 4 5 m | sign-off |
4 | P | ? | 546 |
Any suit bid | natural, NF |
4 | P | ? | 547 |
Any suit bid | natural, NF | |
5 | slam I, trump concern |
4 | P | ? | 548 |
Any suit bid | natural, NF | |
5 | slam I, trump concern |
3 | X | ? | 549 |
Rdbl | strong, creates force | |
Other* | natural, NF |
3 | 3 | ? | 550 |
Dbl | penalty | |
Cue | control, ST, creates force | |
Other* | natural, NF |
*except 4 N and 5 N (see Slam Bidding)
Note that the 4 or 4 trump ask is off after any interference. All suit bids are natural.
An opening bid of 3 N is forcing, showing any self-sufficient suit with 9+ playing tricks. If suit is a minor, shape is usually extreme since 3 N is ruled out as a contract. Strength is typically 11-16 HCP but unlimited; many one-suiters usually opened 2 are better opened 3 N.
3 N | P | ? | 561 |
4 | | exactly 1 ace, F |
4 | | no aces (assumed) or 2 aces, F |
4 4 | 7+ cards (strong 6), at most 1 ace, NF | |
4 N | | 3 aces, F to slam |
3 N ? | P | 4 | P | 562 |
4 | | strength ask (slam possible) |
4 4 | sign-off | |
4 N | | asks which ace (responder bids it) |
5 5 | sign-off |
3 N 4 | P P | 4 ? | P | 563 |
4 | | nothing extra |
4 | | something extra |
4 N | | much extra with A |
5 5 5 | | much extra with that ace |
Opener then places contract or bids 4 N to ask which ace.
3 N ? | P | 4 | P | 564 |
4 4 | real suit, NF | |
4 N | | strength ask* (slam possible if aceless) |
5 5 | real suit, NF |
*3 steps: nothing, something, much
If responder has 2 aces, he must continue by bidding a non-ace suit to pinpoint locations. Opener then signs off without control in that suit, bids slam, or uses the cheapest available other bid as a 3-step strength ask.
3 N ? | P | 4 | P | 565 |
4 N | Blackwood (bid major key) | |
Suit | real suit, NF |
3 N | X | ? | 566 |
Pass* | no ace, no likely tricks | |
Rdbl | 1 ace + defensive strength | |
Other | unchanged |
*allows stopping in 4 or 4 if opener bids it
3 N | 4 | ? | 567 |
Pass* | nondescript | |
Dbl | trump stack, penalty | |
Cheapest suit | 1 ace | |
Other suit | natural, NF | |
Cheapest NT | 2 aces, F | |
5 N jump | 3 aces, F |
*Opener must always compete at 4 level but may elect not to risk 5 level.
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
After an enemy opening bid of 1 of a suit, immediate actions are summarized below.
1 | ? | 571 |
Dbl | 13+, takeout | |
1 1 1 | 10-18, 5+ cards | |
1 N* | 15-18, balanced, stopper | |
Cue | both majors | |
Jump cue | strong 1-suiter | |
DJ cue | both majors, extreme shape | |
Other suit jump | weak | |
2 N | two lowest unbid | |
3 N | 15-20, based on long suit | |
4 N | two lowest unbid, extreme shape |
*Respond as to 1 N opening, including interference agreements if next opponent acts.
1 | ? | 572 |
2 | 13-18, 5+ cards | |
Other | same as #571 |
1 | ? | 573 |
2 2 | 13-18, 5+ cards | |
Cue | spades + minor | |
DJ cue | spades + minor, extreme shape | |
Other | same as #571 |
1 | ? | 574 |
2 2 2 | 13-18, 5+ cards | |
Other | analogous to #573 |
After an enemy opening bid of 1 of a suit, a takeout double shows 13-18 points with 3+ cards in each unbid suit, or 19+ points. With major-suit hopes it is permissible to have only a doubleton in an unbid minor.
1 | X | P | ? | 581 |
1 1 1 | 0-9, 4+ cards (rare 3) | |
1 N | 6-10, stopper | |
Cue | 10+, F until raise or game | |
2 | 10-12, 5+ cards, I | |
2 2 | 10-12, 4+ cards, I | |
2 N | 11-12, stopper, I | |
Jump cue | | 13+, splinter, 3-suiter, GF |
3 3 3 | 6-9, 6+ cards, NF | |
3 N | 13-16, stopper | |
DJ cue | | 10+, 5-5 majors |
4 | 6-9, 7+ cards | |
4 4 | 13-16, 5+ cards | |
5 | 13-16, 7+ cards |
1 | X | P | ? | 582 |
2 | 0-9, 5+ cards (rare 4) | |
3 | 10-12, 5+ cards, I | |
4 | 6-9, 7+ cards | |
Other | same as #581 |
1 | X | P | ? | 583 |
2 2 | 0-9, 4+ cards | |
3 3 | 10-12, 5+ cards, I | |
4 4 | 6-9, 7+ cards | |
4 | | 10+, 5-5 minors |
Other | same as #581 |
1 | X | P | ? | 584 |
2 | 0-9, 4+ cards | |
3 | 10-12, 4+ cards, I | |
4 | | 10+, 5-5 minors |
Other | same as #581 |
1 P | X ? | P | 1 | 585 |
1 2 | 19+, 5+ cards, NF | |
1 N | 18-20, stopper | |
Cue | 21+, no rebid promised | |
2 | 16-18, 4+ cards | |
2 3 | self-make, 6+ strong cards, NF | |
2 N | 21-22, stopper | |
Jump cue | | 19+, splinter raise, game try |
3 | 19-21, 4+ hearts, I | |
3 4 | self-make, 6+ strong cards, NF | |
3 N | self-make |
1 P | X ? | P | 2 | 586 |
2 2 | 19+, 5+ cards, NF | |
Cue | 21+, no rebid promised | |
2 N | 18-20, stopper | |
3 | 18-20, 4+ clubs | |
3 3 4 | self-make, 6+ strong cards, NF | |
Jump cue | | 19+, splinter raise, game try |
1 P | X ? | P | 1 N | 587 |
2 2 2 | 5 cards, minimum double (to play) | |
Cue | shortness, I+, no rebid promised | |
3 3 3 | 5+ cards, GF |
1 | X | R | ? | 588 |
Pass | no preference or 10+ | |
Unbid suit | weak (any level) | |
Other | unchanged |
Pass followed by a voluntary action shows 10-12 range.
If our takeout double is followed by any bid below 2 N, including a new suit, 1 N or raise, the following agreements apply.
1 | X | 1 | ? | 589 |
Dbl | responsive* | |
Suit bid | 6-9 | |
Suit jump | 10+, I below game |
*minor takeout if both minors unbid
Note that bidding RHOs suit (1 Dbl 1 2 ) is natural like any other. Only openers suit is a cue-bid.
After a major raise, responsive doubles are extended thru 3 , which includes any enemy bid that shows a fit.
After an enemy opening bid of 1 of a suit, a nonjump suit overcall shows 10-18 points (13-18 at 2 level) and a 5+ card suit. A strong 4 card suit may be bid at the 1 level with 13-18 points if no other action is appropriate.
1 | 1 | P | ? | 601 |
1 2 | 8-12, 5+ cards, NF | |
1 N* | 8-11, stopper, NF | |
Cue** | 11+ if fit, 13+ if not | |
2 | 7-10, 3+ cards | |
2 3 | 12-14, 6+ cards, I | |
2 N | 12-14, stopper, I | |
Jump cue | 11+, 4+ hearts | |
3 | weak (4-7), 4+ cards | |
3 4 | 12-14, 7+ cards, I | |
3 N | 15-18, stopper | |
DJ cue | splinter, ST |
*Subsequent cue is natural and NF (jump invit)
**Re-cue is forcing, natural if minor; major is general force (presumed) or natural (NF) if repeated or game
1 | 2 | P | ? | 602 |
2 N | 9-11, stopper, I | |
3 | 7-10, 3+ cards | |
Jump suit | natural, F below game | |
3 N | 12-15, stopper | |
4 | weak (4-7), 4+ cards | |
Other | same as #601 |
Unless forced or invited, overcaller generally should pass with 10-12; may act again with 13-15, and should act again with 16-18.
A second-round bid in openers minor is a cue-bid only if partner has acted; else natural showing a 2-suiter.
1 P | 1 ? | P | 2 | 603 |
Same suit | minimum, nondescript, NF | |
Below same | ambiguous, natural, F | |
Above same | accept, natural, F (below game) |
1 | 1 | X | ? | 604 |
Rdbl | 11+, implies no fit, creates force | |
Cue | 11+, shows fit | |
2 N | 8-10, 4+ card fit | |
Other | unchanged |
1 | 2 | X | ? | 605 |
2 N | unchanged | |
Other | analogous to #604 |
If our nonjump suit overcall is followed by any bid below 2 N (including 1 N and new suits) the following agreements apply.
1 | 1 | 2 | ? | 606 |
Dbl | responsive* | |
Cue | 11+, shows fit, stopper if choice of cues | |
Other | unchanged |
*implies doubleton support if only 1 unbid suit
After a major raise or any bid showing a major fit: | 607 |
Responsive doubles are extended thru 3 |
After a cue-bid of our overcall, double is: | 608 |
1. Responsive if unpassed hand and cue is not GF |
2. Lead-directing if passed hand or cue is GF |
After an enemy opening bid of 1 of a suit, all jumps in unbid suits are weak, generally by the rule of 2, 3 or 4 per vulnerability.
1 | 2 | P | ? | 611 |
Cue | asks for stopper | |
Other | weak two-bid structure |
Also use weak two-bid structure if RHO acts.
1 | 3 | P | ? | 612 |
Cue below 3 N | asks for stopper | |
Other | preemptive opening structure |
Note that 4 or 4 trump ask still applies.
1 | 4 | P | ? | 613 |
Cue | ST with control | |
Other | preemptive opening structure |
After an enemy opening bid of 1 of a suit, a cue-bid (Michaels) shows both majors over a minor, or the unbid major plus either minor over a major; an overcall of 2 N (unusual) shows the two lowest unbid suits. Shape is at least 5-5 (5-4 after cue of minor) and strength is either weak (5-11 HCP) or strong (16+ HCP). With in-between hands (12-15 HCP) overcall in one suit and bid the other.
1 | 2 | P | ? | 621 |
2 | 6+ cards, NF | |
2 2 | preference | |
2 N | game or ST, F | |
Cue | asks for stopper | |
3 | 6+ cards, I | |
3 3 | weak, 4+ cards | |
3 N | natural, NF | |
4 4 | weak or to make |
1 | 2 | P | ? | 622 |
3 | 6+ cards, NF | |
4 | 6+ cards, I | |
Other | same as #621 |
1 | 2 | P | ? | 623 |
2 | preference | |
3 | pass or correct to 3 | |
3 | 6+ cards, NF | |
4 4 | 6+ cards, I | |
Other | same as #621 |
Note that only the cheapest club bid is pass or correct.
1 | 2 | P | ? | 624 |
3 | preference | |
Other | same as #623 |
1 | 2 N | P | ? | 625 |
3 3 | preference | |
Cue | asks for stopper | |
3 | 6+ cards, NF | |
3 N | natural, NF | |
4 4 5 | weak or to make |
1 P | 2 ? | P | 2 N | 626 |
3 | longer hearts | |
3 | longer spades | |
3 | worst, 5-5 | |
3 | not worst, 5-5, F |
1 P | 2 ? | P | 2 N | 627 |
3 3 | worst, natural, NF | |
3 | not worst, clubs | |
3 | not worst, diamonds, F |
1 P | 2 N ? | P | 3 | 628 |
3 N | stopper (in cue) | |
Cheapest real | worst | |
Other | not worst |
If two-suited overcaller bids again when not forced or invited:
1 P | 2 ? | P | 2 | 629 |
Shown suit | weak range, extra shape, I | |
2 N 3 N | 16+ HCP, stopper | |
Cue | 16+ HCP, splinter | |
Other suit | 16+ HCP, 3 cards |
1 P | 2 ? | 3 | P | 630 |
Dbl | 16+ HCP, optional | |
Other | analogous to #629 |
1 | 2 | X | ? | 631 |
Pass | no clear preference | |
Rdbl | strong, creates force | |
3 | | 6+ cards, NF |
Other | unchanged |
1 | 2 | 3 | ? | 632 |
Dbl | penalty* | |
Shown suit | competitive, NF | |
Other suit | 6+ cards, NF | |
Cue | asks for stopper (below 3 N) | |
Cue past 3 N | control, ST | |
Jump shown | I if below game |
*lead directing if cue of our suit
1 | 2 | 3 | ? | 633 |
Shown major | competitive, NF | |
Cheapest minor | competitive, pass or correct | |
Other | analogous to #632 |
After an enemy opening of 1 of a suit, a 3-level cue-bid as our sides first action shows a 1-suited hand (not suit bid) with 9+ playing tricks and at most 1 loser in the long suit. Typically this is to seek a stopper for 3 N. If overcaller bids 4 or 4 next, he confirms a splinter in the cue-bid suit, else start with double.
1 | 3 | P | ? | 641 |
3 | | no ace, no stopper |
3 3 | 6+ cards, F | |
3 N | stopper | |
4 | | 1 ace, no stopper |
4 | | 2 aces* |
4 4 | 7+ cards, NF | |
4 N | | king stopper + 1 ace, NF |
1 | 3 | P | ? | 642 |
4 | | no ace, no stopper |
4 | | 1 ace, no stopper |
5 | | 2 aces* |
Other | same as #641 |
1 | 3 | P | ? | 643 |
Cue | | 2 aces* |
Other | analogous to #642 |
*Showing 2 aces overrides stopper showing, since suit game should be assured, and slam likely.
1 | 3 | X | ? | 644 |
Pass | no stopper, no values | |
Rdbl | ace in that suit | |
Other* | unchanged |
*except cheapest minor shows at least a king, else pass
1 | 3 | 3 | ? | 645 |
Pass | weak | |
Dbl | penalty (trump stack) | |
3 N | stopper in openers suit | |
4 | | 1 ace, no stopper |
4 | | 2 aces |
Other | unchanged |
1 | 3 | 4 | ? | 646 |
5 | | 1 ace, no stopper |
5 | | 2 aces |
Other | analogous to #645 |
If an enemy opening bid of 1 of a suit is passed:
1 | P | P | ? | 651 |
Dbl | 11+, takeout | |
1 1 | 8-15, 5+ cards (rare 4) | |
1 N | 11-15 (system on) | |
2 | 10-15, 5+ cards | |
Cue | two-suited overcall | |
Jump suit | 6+ strong cards, 1 trick less than bid | |
2 N | 19-21 (system on) | |
Jump cue | three-level cue overcall | |
3 N | 16-21, based on long suit |
After a balancing double or nonjump suit bid, respond as directly but increase all strength ranges by 2 points.
If opener bids again, responsive doubles do not apply.
1 P | P ? | P | 2 | 652 |
2 N 3 | natural, I | |
3 3 | natural, F | |
Cue | asks for stopper |
After an enemy opening bid of 1 of a suit and an enemy response, most actions are the same as immediately over the suit opened, in which case responding structures would be the same too. The following differences apply.
1 | P | 1 | ? | 661 |
2 | 13-18, 5+ good hearts | |
2 N | same as 2 but more shape | |
3 | same as 3 but related to hearts |
Respond to any of above with related structures.
1 | P | 2 | ? | 662 |
2 3 | 11+, 5+ good cards | |
Other | analogous to #661 |
1 | P | 2 | ? | 663 |
Nonjump suit | 11+, 5+ good cards | |
Jump 3 suit | 6+ cards, 8 tricks, I | |
Jump 4 4 | natural + lower unbid major | |
Cue 4 level | highest + other |
An artificial response is literally ignored. The meaning of our actions is based on the strain it showed.
1 | P | 1 1 | ? | 1. spades | 664 |
Dbl | takeout of clubs and spades | |
1 2 | natural | |
2 2 N | hearts + diamonds | |
2 | weak (rare) | |
3 3 | 3-level cue overcall | |
3 3 | weak |
After a takeout double with two enemy suits shown:
1 P | P ? | 1 | X | 665 |
Any club bid | natural | |
Other | unchanged |
Responsive doubles do not apply.
If two cue-bids are available, the one chosen shows a stopper.
After an enemy opening bid of 1 of a suit, the following structures (defined earlier) apply in full if the conditions are met: | 671 |
1. Major suit game tries |
2. Competitive doubles |
3. Cooperative doubles |
If opponents have made at least two bids but not all four suits and we have not acted, our second-round or later double is: | 672 |
Raised suit | takeout thru 4 | |
Natural suit | takeout thru 2 | |
1 N direct | takeout | |
1 N passout | takeout if both majors unbid |
Otherwise a second-round or later double is penalty (implying previous trap pass) or lead-directing.
Any action by a passed hand keeps its normal shape context, but strength is limited by failure to open.
Exception: Direct 1 N overcall shows the two lowest unbid suits (at least 5-4).
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
After an enemy 1 N opening bid, regardless of strength, a modified version of Astro is used.
1 N | ? | 691 |
Dbl | 16+ HCP, optional | |
2 | | hearts + any other |
2 | spades + any other | |
2 2 | 6+ cards | |
2 N | | both majors or both minors |
3 3 | 6+ cards | |
Higher suit | 6+ strong cards, 1 trick shy of bid |
Bids imply 9-15 HCP but flexible per shape and vul.
Two-suiters imply at least 5-4 shape (either way) but may be 4-4-4-1 (three suits).
With both majors bid 2 with only 4 spades; 2 with 5+ spades and 4+ hearts; or 2 N with at least 5-5 and decent game prospects.
1 N | X | P | ? | 692 |
Pass | 5+ HCP or no 5+ card suit | |
Suit bid | weak, 5+ cards | |
2 N | any 2-suiter, F until raise or game | |
Jump suit | 5-7 HCP, 6+ cards, I |
1 N | 2 | P | ? | 693 |
Pass | 6+ clubs, misfit expected | |
2 | not 3 hearts | |
2 | 3+ hearts | |
2 | 6+ spades | |
2 N | only force, game try | |
3 3 3 | 6+ cards, I | |
3 | 5-7 HCP, 4+ hearts, I |
1 N | 2 | P | ? | 694 |
2 | not 3 spades | |
2 | 3+ spades | |
3 | 6+ clubs | |
3 3 | 6+ cards, I | |
Other | analogous to #693 |
1 N | 2 | any | ? | 695 |
Any | weak two-bid structure |
1 N | 2 N | P | ? | 696 |
3 suit | discouraging, assuming that genre | |
3 N | | AF, asks definition and range* |
4 4 | I, assuming minors | |
4 4 | to play, assuming majors |
*lower real suit = minimum, higher = extras
If 2 N bidder has unassumed genre he must bid again; suit bids logical; 3 N (forcing) shows extras.
1 N P | 2 ? | P | 2 | 697 |
Pass | diamonds | |
2 | 5 hearts, 2nd suit black | |
2 | | 3-4 spades, only 4 hearts, 4+ minor* |
2 N | | both minors (3 suits) |
3 | 5+ clubs | |
3 | 5+ diamonds, I | |
3 4 4 | 6+ cards, I |
*usually clubs but may be good 4=4=4=1
1 N P | 2 ? | P | 2 | 698 |
Pass | hearts | |
2 | 5 spades, either minor | |
2 N | both minors (3 suits) | |
3 3 | 5+ cards | |
3 | | 4 hearts, 5+ spades, I |
3 4 4 | 6+ cards, I |
1 N P | 2 ? | P | 2 N | 699 |
3 3 | minimum, natural | |
3 | | minimum, 4 spades |
3 | | extras, 3-4 spades |
3 N | | extras, clubs or diamonds |
4 4 | extras, natural, extreme shape |
1 N P | 2 ? | P | 2 N | 700 |
3 3 3 | minimum, natural | |
3 | | extras, 4 hearts |
3 N | | extras, clubs or diamonds |
4 4 | extras, natural, extreme shape |
1 N P | 2 2 | P P | 2 ? | 701 |
2 | | 3+ spades, seeking other suit |
2 N | | both minors, please choose |
3 3 | 6+ cards, NF |
1 N P | 2 2 | P P | 2 ? | 702 |
3 | 6+ cards, NF | |
Other | same as #701 |
If an enemy 1 N opening is followed by two passes, Astro structure still applies, but minimum strength is lowered.
1 N | P | P | ? | 703 |
Dbl | 14+ HCP, optional | |
All bids | 7-15 HCP |
1 N | 2 | X | ? | 704 |
Pass | willing to play if second suit | |
Relay | unwilling to play minor doubled | |
Rdbl* | | 5+ cards in relay suit |
Other | unchanged |
*allows Astro bidder a rescue there with 2-3 cards
1 N P | 2 ? | X | P | 705 |
Rdbl | | 4315 shape (allows rescue to 2 ) |
Other | logical |
1 N | 2 | 2 | ? | 706 |
Dbl | penalty | |
2 N | unchanged | |
Known suit | competitive | |
Cheapest suit | pass or correct | |
Other suit | 6+ cards, NF | |
Cue | asks for stopper (below 3 N) | |
Cue past 3 N | control, ST (known fit) | |
Jump suit | 6+ cards, I below game |
1 N | 2 N | X | ? | 707 |
Pass | weak (normal) | |
Rdbl | at least 1 ace | |
3 suit | | 1-suited rescue (misfit expected) |
Other | unchanged |
1 N | 2 N | 3 | ? | 708 |
Dbl | penalty (assumes opposite genre) | |
3 suit | competitive, NF, fit exists somewhere | |
Other | unchanged |
Astro also applies, direct or balancing, in the following situations provided no specific suit has been shown: | 709 |
1. 2 N or 3 N opening |
2. 1 N, 2 N or 3 N response to artificial opening |
3. 1 N, 2 N or 3 N rebid after two artificial bids |
Cases 1 and 2 suggest great shape, few HCP. Case 3 shows full HCP from failure to act previously.
Note that bidding 3 N over 2 N, or 4 N over 3 N, still shows majors or minors, albeit unlikely.
2 N1 | ? | 1. both minors | 710 |
Dbl | strength-showing | |
3 | majors, weak or strong | |
3 | majors, in-between (12-15 HCP) |
The following agreements apply when an opponent opens with a natural, nonforcing suit bid from 2 thru 5 , regardless of the strength shown by opener.
2 | ? | 721 |
Dbl | 13+, takeout | |
Unbid suit | 13-18, 6+ (good 5) cards | |
2 N | 16-18 (system on) | |
Cue | three-level cue overcall | |
3 N* | 15-20, usually based on long suit | |
Jump cue | | spades + other |
4 other minor | | natural + hearts, NF |
Jump suit | natural, 1 trick shy of bid | |
4 N | two lowest unbid |
*Responses to 3 N are natural (no transfers). Minor suits forcing; majors nonforcing. Cue-bid shows shortness in their suit with slam interest.
2 | ? | 722 |
4 4 | | natural + unbid major, NF |
Jump cue | unbid major + minor | |
Other | same as #721 |
3 | ? | 723 |
Dbl | 14+, takeout | |
Unbid suit | 13-18, 6+ (good 5) cards | |
3 N | 15-20, varied (natural responses) | |
Cue | | spades + other |
4 over 3 | | diamonds + hearts |
4 N | two lowest unbid | |
Jump suit | natural, 1 trick shy of bid |
3 | ? | 724 |
Cue | other major + minor | |
Other | same as #723 |
4 | ? | 725 |
Dbl | 15+, takeout | |
Cue | spades + other, slam I | |
Other | same as #723 |
4 | ? | 726 |
Dbl | 15+, optional* | |
Unbid suit | 13-20, 6+ cards | |
4 N over 4 | minors | |
4 N over 4 | | any 2-suiter, rarely 3-suiter with void |
Cue | highest unbid + another, slam I+ |
*Usually pull with 6+ suit (5+ spades) or 5-5.
2 | X | P | ? | 727 |
2 | 0-8 | |
2 N | Lebensohl, relay to 3 | |
3 3 | 9-11, I | |
3 | 12+, usually no stopper, GF | |
3 | 9-11, 5+ spades, I | |
3 N | 10-15, confident stopper | |
Jump cue | 12+, splinter, 3-suiter |
2 P | X 3 | P P | 2 N ? | 728 |
3 or pass | 0-8, respective minor | |
3 | 4 spades, heart stopper, GF | |
3 | 9-11, 4 spades, I | |
3 N | 10-15, tentative, not 4 spades | |
4 4 | shapely, I |
2 | 2 | P | ? | 729 |
Unbid suit | 8+, 5+ cards, F below game | |
2 N | 8-10, natural | |
Cue | 10+, general force (below 3 N) | |
Raise | 8-10 below game, 8-15 if game | |
Cue past 3 N | 13+, fit + control | |
Jump suit | self-playable, slam I | |
Jump raise | 11-15 if game | |
Jump cue | 13+, splinter raise |
2 | X | 3 | ? | 730 |
Dbl | penalty | |
Unbid suit | 6-9 below game, 6-15 if game | |
Other | unchanged |
2 | 2 | 3 | ? | 731 |
Dbl | penalty | |
Other | unchanged |
Responsive doubles do not apply after weak openings.
2 | P | 3 | ? | 732 |
Any | as over opening bid* |
*except only cue is openers suit. Bidding responders suit is natural and may expose a psych.
2 | P | P | ? | 733 |
Any | same but all ranges 2 points less |
For example, 2 N would show 14-16 instead of 16-18.
Responding structure is the same (including Lebensohl after double) with ranges upped by 2 points.
Over a strong (16+) artificial 1 , 1 , 2 or 2 opening, all initial actions show weak hands, typically 5-11 HCP.
1 1 | ? | 1. 16+, artificial | 741 |
Pass* | unlimited | |
Dbl | clubs | |
1 suit | natural | |
1 N | | majors or minors |
2 | | hearts + any other |
2 | | spades + any other |
2 2 | natural | |
2 N | | majors or minors |
3+ suit | natural |
*With a good hand, compete next round as if all artificial bids did not exist; e.g., 1 P 1 P; 1 N 2 is Astro.
With both majors follow Astro rules regarding shape.
Choice between 1 N and 2 N is simply a matter of safety vs. preemption.
After a 2 opening everything is the same but one level higher.
After a strong, artificial 1 or 2 , only change is that double = diamonds.
The same structure applies after a response to the forcing opening (thru 2 N) provided no specific suit has been shown; double shows the suit doubled, or both majors if the response is 1 N or 2 N.
If our bid shows a 2-suiter, follow the Astro structure for all responses and rebids.
Otherwise, all suit responses (including jumps) are natural and NF, usually weak. A response of 1 N or 2 N (cheapest available) is the only force, like an invitational cue-bid; 3 N is always NF to play.
If the enemy opening bid is artificial but shows one specified suit (transfer preempts, Namyats) the following agreements apply.
3 1 | ? | 1. hearts | 751 |
Pass | unlimited | |
Dbl | 11+, takeout of real suit | |
Other | as if real suit were bid |
Pass and double can be further defined next round: | 752 |
Pass then dbl | 15+, optional | |
Dbl then dbl | 15+, takeout |
If the enemy opening is 1 N, 2 N or 3 N, and the response is artificial showing one specified suit (Jacoby, minor-suit transfer, Texas) the following agreements apply.
1 N | P | 2 1 | ? | 1. spades | 753 |
Pass* | unlimited | |
Dbl* | lead-directing | |
Cue 2 level | two-suited overcall | |
Nonjump suit | 11+, 5+ good cards | |
Cue 3 level | three-level cue overcall | |
Jump 3 suit | 6+ cards, 8 tricks, I | |
Jump 4 4 | natural + lower unshown major | |
Cue 4 level | highest unshown + other |
*Subsequent double of enemy real suit is takeout thru 4 (assuming partner only passed).
This applies to opening two-bids that do not show 5+ cards in the suit bid, nor a specific one-suited hand.
Current list includes: | 761 |
1. Flannery 2 (5+ hearts, 4 spades) |
2. Roman 2 2 (3 unknown suits) |
3. Precision 2 2 (3 known suits) |
4. Meckwell 2 (3 suits, 2 of which known) |
5. Meckwell 2 (weak preempt any suit) |
6. Multi 2 (unknown major) |
Note that Flannery 2 (not included) would be treated as a natural two-bid.
2 1 | ? | 1. on junk list | 762 |
Dbl | 15+ HCP, nondescript | |
Cue 2 level | two-suited overcall | |
Cue 3 level | three-level cue overcall | |
Cue 4 level | highest + other | |
Suit | 13-18, 6+ (good 5) cards | |
2 N | 15-18, usually 5+ minor (system on) | |
Jump suit | 6+ strong cards, 1 trick shy of bid | |
3 N | 15-20, usually long suit (natural responses) |
Pass then double a natural suit thru 4 is takeout.
2 1 | P | 2 N | ? | 1. on junk list | 763 |
Any | same as #762 |
2 1 | P | 2 2 | ? | 1. on junk list 2. NF | 764 |
Dbl | takeout thru 4 | |
Other | same as #762 |
Note: A suit is a cue-bid if a nonforcing response (as above) or if opener showed 5+ cards in the suit.
Doubles of artificial suit bids are lead-directing unless otherwise defined or one of the exceptions below.
Double by an unpassed hand of: | 771 |
1. 2 response to weak 1 N* is strength-showing |
2. Artificial response (thru 3 ) to a natural suit opening is takeout of the suit opened |
3. Splinter bid as our first action shows length and suggests sacrifice |
*defined as 15 HCP maximum
Unless otherwise defined, the double of a notrump bid by non-leader is penalty and requests, in order of priority: | 772 |
1. Leaders suit if both of us have shown suits |
2. Dummys suit unless leader has strong safe lead |
3. Leaders shown suit |
4. Doublers shown suit |
5. Leaders weaker major |
Double of a voluntarily bid suit slam by non-leader requests, in order of priority: | 773 |
1. Side suit shown by the opponents |
2. Leaders longest suit not bid by our side |
This applies if an opponent is the first to run after our strength-showing double in the following situations: | 781 |
1. Double of any notrump bid where Astro applies |
2. Double of 2 response to weak 1 N opening |
3. Double of junkyard bid or 2 N response to it |
4. Double of unusual 2 N opening |
1 N | X | 2 1 | ? | 1. clubs + other | 782 |
Pass | weak or 3+ cards in runout | |
Double | takeout of runout, usually doubleton | |
Suit | 5+ cards, NF | |
Jump suit | 6+ cards, I | |
Cue | shortness in runout |
Runout is defined as the actual suit bid, unless it showed another specified suit and not 4 cards in the bid suit, then the specified suit.
1 N P | X ? | 2 1 | P | 1. both majors | 783 |
Pass | 3+ cards in runout* | |
Other | same as #782 |
*inferring weakness from partners pass
1 N 2 | X ? | P | P | 784 |
Pass | 3+ cards in runout | |
Other | same as #782 |
1 N 2 | X P | P P | P ? | 785 |
Pass | weak | |
Other | same as #782 |
Runout defense applies thru 4 and after multiple runouts, provided we have only passed after the first runout and not passed the same suit twice. In other words, if we bid, double for takeout, or one of us meets a suit he passed at a lower level, all doubles are penalty.
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
Most slam auctions begin with suit agreement, which can occur in four ways, all agreeing the suit bid or the last shown suit: | 801 |
1. Raise, including artificial fit-showing bids |
2. Preference, even if not ensuring an 8+ fit |
3. Splinter bid, including self-splinters* |
4. Advance control-bid |
*but excluding pattern splinters to show a 3-suiter or the remaining shape of a 2-suiter
After suit agreement in a strong auction (game tries nonexistent) our next bid has the following meaning: | 802 |
Notrump | natural (except 4 N if Blackwood) | |
Shown suit | natural | |
Enemy suit | ace or shortness | |
Unshown suit | control-showing* |
*except after a preference that did not show normal support, then natural; e.g., 1 1 N; 3 3 ; 4 = 3-4 clubs, and 5 or 6 is a potential contract.
Note that two suits can be agreed, but thats the limit if it happens; a bid in either remaining suit is control-showing.
A control-showing auction can be started only after suit agreement. Typically this requires about an ace better than a minimum GF, or suitable values if suit agreement was issued by a splinter or advance control-bid.
Once a control-showing auction is started, bids mean the following: | 803 |
Notrump* | natural, discouraging | |
Agreed suit | natural, discouraging | |
Other suit | control-bid (even if shown by our side) |
*excluding 4 N if Blackwood and 5 N
A control-bid below game (after control-auction started) does not require extra strength (just suitable values).
Guidelines for the first control-bid in a suit: | 804 |
Unshown of 3 | ace or king, 4+ cards (rare 3) | |
Unshown of 2 | ace or king* or shortness | |
Only unshown | ace or shortness | |
Enemy shown | ace or shortness | |
Splinter suit | ace or void | |
Partners shown | ace or king | |
Your shown | ace |
*with ace in one suit and king in the other, prefer to show the king below game
Bypassing a suit does not deny that control, i.e., it may be planned to show a more useful control or to save bidding space at next turn.
If beyond the game level of the highest agreed suit, a control-bid shows first-round control.
A control-bid past five of the highest agreed suit confirms all suits are controlled and that a grand slam is possible.
A second control-bid in the same suit (or a redouble if our control-bid is doubled) shows: | 805 |
1. Ace or void if prior bid could be shortness |
2. Ace or king if prior bid showed ace or king |
3. King or shortness if prior bid showed ace |
A bid of 4 is Gerber only as an immediate response to 1 N or 2 N when system on applies. This holds with or without interference; so if it is possible to respond 4 , it is Gerber.
Gerber does not apply after Stayman, notrump rebids, or anywhere else.
Responses to Gerber: | 811 |
4 | 0 or 4 aces | |
4 | 1 ace | |
4 | 2 aces | |
4 N | 3 aces |
Continuations by Gerber bidder: | 812 |
5 | asks for kings*, confirms all 4 aces | |
Other | sign-off |
*respond as above but 1 level higher.
If Gerber 4 is doubled: | 813 |
Pass* | | no club control |
Other | | as usual with club control |
*Asker may redouble to ask again for aces.
DOPI if an opponent bids below 5 N: | 814 |
Dbl | 0 or 4 aces | |
Pass | 1 ace | |
Cheapest bid | 2 aces | |
Next bid | 3 aces |
DEPO if an opponent bids 5 N or beyond: | 815 |
Dbl | 0, 2 or 4 aces | |
Pass | 1 or 3 aces |
Four notrump is natural if no major suit is agreed and we have bid notrump naturally.
The following notrump bids are not considered natural: | 821 |
1. Forcing 1 N response to a major opening |
2. Responders 2 N rebid after openers reverse bid |
3. Responders 2 N waiting after a 2 opening |
1 3 | P P | 2 N 4 N | P | natural |
Despite both majors bid, neither is agreed.
1 N 2 4 | P P P | 2 3 4 N | P P | natural |
If partner has not acted, 4 N is always for takeout.
If partner has acted, 4 N is takeout if all of the following are true: | 822 |
1. You have not previously acted |
2. Partner has bid or doubled at cheapest level |
3. Last bid is 4 or 4 by an opponent |
4. At least two unbid suits exist not counting spades |
1 | 4 | 4 N | takeout |
But if opponent bid 4 , it would be Blackwood.
1 | 1 | 4 | 4 N | takeout |
But if partner bid 2 , it would be Blackwood.
If 4 N does not meet either the natural or takeout conditions, it is Blackwood.
When 4 N is Blackwood there is always one key suit, per this priority: | 831 |
1. Agreed suit, higher if two |
2. Last shown suit, higher if simultaneous |
3. Highest implied suit |
1 | 2 N | P | 4 N | diamonds key (higher of simultaneous) |
1 | X | 3 | 4 N | hearts key (highest implied) |
Standard Roman key-card steps: | 832 |
5 | 0 or 3 key cards | |
5 | 1 or 4 key cards | |
5 | 2 or 5 key cards | |
5 * | 2 or 5 key cards, QOEL |
*not allowed with key suit hearts
Blackwood bidder may next sign off in 5 of any agreed suit (or shown suit if key suit was inferred without an explicit raise), any shown suit beyond 5 of agreed suit, or 6 N. Exception: If Blackwood responder has 4 or 5 key cards, there are no sign-offs at the 5 level.
Non-sign-off bids by Blackwood bidder: | 833 |
Cheapest suit | QOEL ask | |
Other suit | relay to play 5 N (rare) | |
5 N | king ask, confirms 5 key cards + QOEL |
Responses to QOEL ask: | 834 |
Key suit | denies QOEL | |
Other suit | QOEL, that king | |
5 N | QOEL, asking suit king* |
*or no king if key suit sign-off is at 6 level
Responses to 5 N specific king ask: | 835 |
Key suit | no king | |
Other suit | that king | |
6 N | two kings, doubts about seven | |
7 any | natural, source of tricks, NF |
Continuations after QOEL or 5 N ask: | 836 |
Unshown suit | grand ST, nonspecific | |
Other | sign-off |
A void may be shown (optional) over Blackwood: | 837 |
5 N | 2 key cards + void | |
6 of suit* | 1 or 3 key cards + void |
*If below key suit shows void (or specific king if void is obvious).
After 5 N asker may continue with 6 (if not key suit) to inquire similarly.
Five of a suit is exclusion Blackwood if and only if: | 838 |
1. Jump bid in opponents shown suit |
2. Jump bid in unshown suit after weve shown a fit |
3. Repeat of splinter suit by splinter bidder |
Normal step responses apply but not counting the ace of the exclusion bid.
If an opponent doubles 4 N: | 839 |
Rdbl | 0 or 3 key cards, desire to play 4 N | |
Pass | 1 or 4 key cards, desire to play 4 N | |
Other | unchanged |
DOPI if an opponent bids below 6 of key suit: | 840 |
Dbl | 0 or 3 key cards | |
Pass | 1 or 4 key cards | |
Cheapest bid | 2 or 5 key cards | |
Next bid* | 2 or 5 key cards, QOEL |
*not allowed if cheapest bid is key suit
DEPO if an opponent bids 6 of key suit or beyond: | 841 |
Dbl | 0, 2 or 4 key cards | |
Pass | 1, 3 or 5 key cards |
Super Gerber is a way to ask for key cards with 4 or 4 when 4 N would be inconvenient or natural.
Four of the highest unshown major is super Gerber provided all of the following are true: | 851 |
1. We opened 1 , 1 , 1 , 1 , 1 N, 2 or 2 N |
2. We did not make a weak jump shift response |
3. No opponent has bid (double is not a bid) |
4. We have shown at least one minor suit |
5. We have not raised or agreed a major suit |
1 4 | P | 3 N | P | super Gerber |
Note the rule prevails over possible natural interpretation.
Corollary: When super Gerber applies, 4 N is natural.
1 3 | P P | 2 4 N | P | slam I (4 would be super Gerber) |
Shown suits are generally obvious, but some gray areas exist.
The following are considered shown suits: | 852 |
1. Value jump after 1 N forcing response |
2. Openers rebid after inverted minor raise |
3. Openers major rebid after minor-suit Stayman |
4. Fit-implying rebid by notrump bidder unless the only unbid major |
1 2 3 N | P P P | 2 3 4 | P P | super Gerber (heart suit not shown) |
Super Gerber always has a key minor suit: | 853 |
1. Agreed minor, diamonds if both |
2. Last shown minor |
Standard Roman key-card steps: | 854 |
Step 1 | 0 or 3 key cards | |
Step 2 | 1 or 4 key cards | |
Step 3 | 2 or 5 key cards | |
Step 4* | 2 or 5 key cards, QOEL |
*not allowed if Step 3 is key suit
Super Gerber bidder may then sign off in 4 N, 6 N, or 5-7 of any shown suit.
Continuations by super Gerber bidder: | 855 |
Asking major | king ask, confirms 5 KC + QOEL | |
Unshown suit* | QOEL ask | |
5 N | choice of slam, F |
*If responder holds 4 or 5 key cards, this can be an agreed or shown suit, since asker could not wish to sign off.
Responses to QOEL ask: | 856 |
Key suit | denies QOEL | |
5 N | QOEL, no king or opted not to show* | |
Other suit | QOEL, that king |
*showing a king beyond 6 of key suit is discretionary
Responses to specific king ask: | 857 |
Key suit | no king | |
5 N | king in asking major | |
Other suit | that king | |
6 N | two kings, doubts about seven | |
7 any | natural, source of tricks, NF |
Continuations after QOEL or specific king ask: | 858 |
Unshown suit* | grand ST, nonspecific | |
Other | sign-off |
*if beyond 6 of key suit rejection is 6 N
If super Gerber is doubled: | 859 |
Pass* | | no control in major doubled |
Other | | as usual with control in major doubled |
*Asker may redouble to ask again for key cards.
DOPI if an opponent bids below 6 of key suit: | 860 |
Dbl | 0 or 3 key cards | |
Pass | 1 or 4 key cards | |
Cheapest bid | 2 or 5 key cards | |
Next bid* | 2 or 5 key cards, QOEL |
*not allowed if cheapest bid is key suit
DEPO if an opponent bids 6 of key suit or beyond: | 861 |
Dbl | 0, 2 or 4 key cards | |
Pass | 1, 3 or 5 key cards |
The following bids are trump asks: | 871 |
4 resp to 2 , 2 or 2 when 2 N is artif force |
4 rebid by 2 N (AF) responder to 2 , 2 or 2 |
4 resp to 3 , 3 or 3 opening or jump overcall |
4 resp to 3 or 4 opening or jump overcall |
Exception: If RHO doubles or bids over partners last bid, trump ask must be a jump (else natural NF).
2 | P | 4 | trump ask |
2 3 | P P | 2 N 4 | P | trump ask |
1 N | 2 | P | 4 | trump ask |
3 | P | 4 | trump ask |
3 | X | 4 | natural NF |
1 | 3 | 3 | 4 | natural NF |
Responses are by steps, skipping the trump suit: | 872 |
Trump suit | worst | |
Step 1 | ace or king | |
Step 2 | A-Q or K-Q | |
Step 3 | A-K | |
Step 4 | A-K-Q |
Continuations by asker: | 873 |
4 N | Blackwood (regular key-card) | |
Other | sign-off |
3 ? | P | 4 | X | 874 |
Pass | ace or king, terrible hand | |
Rdbl | ace or king, splinter in suit doubled | |
Other | unchanged |
3 ? | P | 4 | 4 | 875 |
Dbl | worst | |
Pass | ace or king | |
Cheapest bid | A-Q or K-Q | |
Next bid | A-K | |
Next | A-K-Q |
Essentially this DOPI with all bids counted as steps.
A voluntary bid of 5 in a major invites slam: | 881 |
1. If we have not made a weak bid, or |
2. If we are at 4 or 4 with no enemy action, or |
3. On the second round of bidding or later |
1 | 4 | 5 | slam I |
4 | P | 5 | slam I |
Note that 5 would be blocking if opening were 2 or 3 , or if next hand bid or doubled.
A jump to 5 in a minor invites slam: | 882 |
only if a bid of 4 would be natural and forcing |
1 3 | P P | 2 5 | P | slam I |
The slam invitation asks for, in order of priority: | 883 |
1. Unshown suit control if we have shown 3 suits |
2. Enemy suit control if not already shown |
3. Good trumps relative to the bidding |
If the bid asks for control: | 884 |
Pass | no control | |
5 N | guarded king | |
6 trump suit | control, usually singleton | |
Other suit | control-bid, ace or void in asked suit |
If the bid asks about trumps: | 885 |
Pass | poor trumps | |
5 N | solid trumps (A-K-Q or no loser) | |
6 trump suit | good trumps | |
Other suit | ace or void, good trumps (2 of top 3) |
Five notrump, when not part of another convention, can have four meanings: takeout, invitation to 7 N, trump ask (GSF) or pick a slam. In all cases it is forcing.
Five notrump is for takeout, asking lower suits first: | 891 |
1. If partner has not acted, or |
2. If a nonjump on the first round of bidding |
3 | 3 | 5 | 5 N | takeout for minors |
Five notrump invites 7 N if: | 892 |
we have shown a balanced hand and no specific suit has been shown |
2 2 N | P P | 2 5 N | P | invitation to 7 N |
Opener may bid 6 of a suit (forcing) to suggest 7 in that suit. Bidding cannot end below 6 N.
Five notrump is a trump ask if: | 893 |
1. A major suit (and no other suit) is agreed, or |
2. Our only shown suit is a 5+ card major by partner* |
*excluding the first-round nonjump takeout case
Responses are by steps, skipping the trump suit: | 894 |
6 | ace or king | |
6 | A-Q or K-Q | |
6 trump suit | worst | |
6 other major | A-K | |
6 N | A-K-Q |
In all other cases, 5 N asks partner to choose a slam: | 895 |
1. If two or more suits shown, between those suits |
2. If only one suit shown, show another suit (if any) |
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
Honor leads: | 911 |
A K Q 10 x, A K J 10 x, A K J x x x (or better) |
A K Q x, A K J x, A K 10 x, K Q J x, K Q 10 x |
K Q 10 9 x, A Q J x, Q J 10 x, Q J 9 x |
A J 10 x, K J 10 x, J 10 9 x, J 10 8 x |
A Q 10 9, A 10 9, K 10 9, Q 10 9, 10 9 8 x, 10 9 7 x |
Doubleton or tripleton A K, K Q, Q J, J 10, 10 9 |
Spot leads: | 912 |
A J x x x, K 9 8 7 x, Q J x x, J 10 x x, etc. |
x x x x (optional depending on hand) |
A x x, K x x, Q x x, J x x, 10 x x |
9 x x* (or weaker), x x (any doubleton) |
*Lead low if partner showed 5+ cards (including suspect third/fourth major openings) and you have not raised.
Honor leads: | 921 |
A K x* (thru 4 ), A K x (above 4 ), K Q x |
Q J 10 x, Q J 9 x, K J 10 x, J 10 9 x, J 10 8 x |
K 10 9, Q 10 9, 10 9 8 x, 10 9 7 x |
Doubleton or tripleton A K, K Q, Q J, J 10, 10 9 |
*except in partners suit always lead king from A-K
Spot leads (3+ cards): | 922 |
Lowest from odd lengths |
Second* or third from even lengths |
*If affordable, which is always presumed true in partners shown suit. For blind leads from four cards, lead second if you have a touching card (J 9 8 2, 8 7 4 2) or if the six or lower (Q 6 4 2); else prefer third (Q 7 4 2).
The purpose of second-best is to allow suit preference on the next round.
Second honor lead in the same suit: | 931 |
Short holding | top card* | |
4+ cards | bottom of sequence |
*warns partner not to overtake or unblock
Second lead in the same suit, spot card: | 932 |
Odd residue | lowest | |
Even residue | highest affordable |
Exception: At notrump lead original fourth best if there could be any ambiguity.
Honor leads in another suit: | 933 |
Ace | denies king | |
King | unchanged | |
Queen | unchanged | |
Jack | J 10 (denies higher) | |
Ten | A J 10, K J 10, A 10 9, K 10 9, Q 10 9 | |
Nine | 10 9 (except doubleton) |
Exceptions occur for technical necessity, such as from K-J-9 thru dummys Q-x-x.
Note that a 10 lead promises a top honor unless doubleton.
Spot leads in another suit at notrump: | 934 |
Fourth best | encourages return of suit | |
High or second | discourages return of suit |
From 9-x-x with the 10 not in view, lead middle to avoid confusion with showing the 10.
Spot leads in another suit at suit contracts are unchanged (low from odd, second or third from even) regardless of strength.
Exception: Do not lead a nine (e.g., K-J-9-x) if it could be confused with showing 10-9-x-(x).
Honor signals (following or discarding) are strength-showing: | 941 |
Ace (discard) | solid suit | |
King | solid except ace | |
Queen | A Q J, Q J (usually 10 too) | |
Jack | A J 10, K J 10, J 10* | |
Ten | A Q 10, A 10 9, K 10 9, Q 10 9, 10 9* |
*ambiguous so avoid if partner would expect better
When splitting honors as second hand, play as above if intention is to inform partner.
Exception: Second-hand hop with a king shows nothing in particular (just like winning an ace) because it may be necessary to gain the lead.
General strategy against all contracts is to show count, both in following suit and discarding, regardless of who led the suit. Tend to discard first from the suit(s) you do not want led; hence partner can infer positive attitude from a suit not discarded, or discarded last.
Standard count signals: | 951 |
3, 5, 7 cards | lowest | |
4 or 8 cards | second highest (if affordable) | |
2 or 6 cards | highest affordable |
The distinct plays from even lengths can be helpful, e.g., if partner sees the highest outstanding card he knows you have a doubleton or 6.
Tens and jacks may also be count signals, provided the play is safe and wont be confused with strength-showing.
Queens and higher are never count signals.
Notrump opening leads with special requests: | 952 |
Ace | unblock K, Q or J, else count | |
King | attitude | |
Queen | unblock jack, hop ace, else attitude | |
Jack | unblock 10, hop ace or king, else count |
Regardless of the lead at notrump, if dummy wins a blank ace, king or queen, signal attitude.
Other leads with special requests: | 953 |
Ace not A-K* | attitude |
*Beyond 4 , after trick one, or with king in dummy
If count is not shown on the first round of a suit, either because an honor had to be played, or because another signal had priority, count is shown on the second round: | 954 |
Odd residue | lowest | |
Even residue | highest affordable |
Note that an odd residue indicates an original even number of cards, and vice versa.
Suit preference is routinely shown after count with the next play in the same suit.
Assume the underlined card was played first: | 961 |
6 4 2 | 6 shows high SP, 4 shows low | |
10 6 4 3 | 4 shows high SP, 3 shows low | |
Q 9 7 5 2 | 9 shows high SP, 5 shows low | |
9 8 7 6 3 2 | 8 shows high SP, 2 shows low |
Suit preference may be negligible, since you must go one way or the other with 3-4 cards. Neutral possibilities exist with 5+ cards, but readability is doubtful, so general strategy should be to choose.
Suit preference applies immediately if: | 962 |
1. Opening lead is partners shown 5+ card suit* |
2. Opening lead is dummys singleton at suit bid and leader wins trick |
3. Ace lead at suit bid with K-x or K-Q-x in dummy and third hand marked with 3+ cards |
4. Opening lead is obvious singleton and third hand has choice of plays |
5. Leading or following to suit partner may ruff |
6. Removing declarers last stopper at notrump |
7. Choice of insignificant cards in suit declarer is out of (or will be on trick) |
*Suit preference is strong if leader wins the trick, i.e., an immediate shift is usually desired.
A jack is defined as low suit preference if leader could have the queen and need to force second hand to cover.
In the above seven cases a middle card shows no preference but may have other implications: | 963 |
Case 1 | Continue my suit | |
Case 2-3 | Continue suit led or shift to trumps | |
Case 4-5 | My entry may be in trumps | |
Case 6-7 | No preference or nondisclosure |
The only trump signal is traditional to show the number of trumps held. This is routine and does not imply the ability to ruff.
To inform partner of your trump length: | 971 |
2 or 4 trumps | up-the-line | |
3 or 5 trumps | high-low (if affordable) |
Exception: Do not high-low with A-x-x or K-x-x.
When echoing from equal trumps, play the higher card first. This may reveal to partner whether your trump holding is promotable.
System 7G01 Main | Top Pavlicek System |
© 2023 Richard Pavlicek