DEFENSIVE AND COMPETITIVE BIDDING LEADS AND SIGNALS

OVERCALLS (Style; Responses; 1/2 level; Reopening) OPEN LEAD STYLE

WBF Convention Card
Natural Overcall, maybe 4-card if overcall at 1-level [17.1] Open Lead In Partner’s Suit
NCBO Logo &
Advancer: Suit up to Cue = Nat F1, NT = Nat [17.1.1.1] Suit 0/2 Honor, Slavinsky Lead Same
Coloured Sticker:
If Overcall skips suit(s), TRF from cue onwards NT Same Same
Jump Shift = Nat INV, Jump 2NT over 1♥/♠ = FG Raise Subsequent Same Same CATEGORY: BLUE
Jump Cue = Ask Stopper (minor) / L/R (Major) Other: vs NT : A/Q for UB/CT, K for ATT, Vs 5-level+, A asks for ATT NCBO: China Hong Kong EVENTS: ALL
After balancing: Suit = Nat including cue, Rubensohl [17.1.3] Slavinsky Lead: Nat CT Lead w/ Honor, Reverse CT Lead w/o honor PLAYERS: Jerome Cheung, Kim Kwok
nd th
1NT OVERCALL (2 /4 Live; Responses; Reopening) PARTICULAR OPEN LEADS
SYSTEM SUMMARY
15-18 bal (Direct) (System ON) [17.1] Lead Vs. Suit Vs. NT
12-15 bal (Bal) [17.1.3] Ace Ax(+), AK(+) Ax, AK(+), AKJT(+) GENERAL APPROACH AND STYLE
King Kx, KQ(+), AK-stiff Kx, AK(+), AKJ(+), KQ(+) Intermediate 1♣, Strong 1♦, Light Openings
Sandwich 1NT [17.1.4] Queen Qx, QJ(+), AQJ(+) Qx, QJ(+), AQJ(+), KQTx(+)
JUMP OVERCALLS (Style; Responses; Reopen) Jack Jx, JT(+) Jx, JT(+)
1-Suit: Weak (Partner new suit = Long good suit, fit, INV) Ten Txx, T9(+), HJT(+) Txx, T9(+), HJT(+)
2-Suit: Unusual NT (Two lowest unbid) [17.1.5] 9 9xx, HT9(+), HJ9(+) 9xx, HT9(+), HJ9(+)
Blue 2-suiter: (1♦/M)-3♣ = Highest Two, (1♣)-2♦ = ♥+♠ Hi-x See Opening Lead Style See Opening Lead Style 1NT Opening: 11-14, 5M / (4441) Possible
3NT overcall is to play, not necessary strong Lo-x See Opening Lead Style See Opening Lead Style 2 OVER 1 Response: Non-forcing
SIGNALS IN ORDER OF PRIORITY SPECIAL BIDS THAT MAY REQUIRE DEFENCE
Reopen: Opening hand, 6-card Partner’s Lead Declarer’s Lead Discarding 1♣ Any 13-17 / 15-17 bal
DIRECT and JUMP CUE BIDS (Style; Responses; Reopen) 1 ATT (Honor) CT CT 1♦ Any 18+
(1♣)-2♣ = Nat, Other = Top and Bottom, (1♣)-3♣ = ♦+♠ [17.1.5] Suit 2 CT S/P S/P 1♥/♠ 8-12 5+♥/♠, not 5332
3-level = Eastern Cue-Bid (Ask stopper) 3 S/P 1NT 11-14 bal / (4441)
Other = Michaels 1 ATT (Honor) CT CT 2♣ 8-12 6+♣ / 5♣-4♥/♠
VS. NT (vs. Strong/Weak; Reopening; PH) NT 2 CT S/P S/P 2♦ 8-12 6+♦
DON’T [17.2.1] 3 S/P 2♥/♠ 8-12 4♥/♠-5+♦
X = 1-suiter, Bid = 44+ Suit Bid + Another, usually a higher suit Signals (including Trumps): UDCA (Reverse) 2NT 8-12 54+ minors, length difference at most 1
Trump Echo showing ruffing values 3NT Good PRE in any suit
After Honor Lead, Lowest Honor asks UB 4NT 55+ minors PRE
3rd hand: Higher of equal Honor asks UB
Many artificial relays in uncontested auctions
Doubles
Special Defensive Bidding Methods
VS. PREEMPTS (Doubles; Cue-bids; Jumps; NT bids) TAKEOUT DOUBLES (Style; Responses; Reopening) Many artificial 2NT and transfers in competitive auctions
Vs. weak 2: Cue = Ask stopper at 3-level, Michaels at higher level Takeout Double: 4♣, Optional Double: 4♦ to 4♠
4m = m + Highest Unbid M FG, 4NT = ♣+♦ Advancer: New Suit = Natural NF, NT = Nat
Takeout: Jump 3oM = INV, Rubensohl (both) [17.3] TRF from cue onwards [17.1.2]
vs high-level, 4NT / Cue = 2-suiter takeout, Takeout X [17.6]
VS. ARTIFICIAL STRONG OPENINGS SPECIAL, ARTIFICIAL AND COMPETITIVE DOUBLES/REDOUBLES SPECIAL FORCING PASS SEQUENCES
Suction: X = Any 13+ (1♣/♦) / Overcall in suit Xed otherwise [17.9] Negative Double: 3♠, Snapdragon Double: 2♥ [17.1.1.4.3] After Overcall by either opponents after 1♦ opening
♣ = ♦/♥+♠, ♦ = ♥/♠+♣, ♥ = ♠/♣+♦, ♠ = ♣/♦+♥, NT = ♣+♥/♦+♠ Competitive Double: 3♠ [18.1.4], Rosenkrantz Redouble [17.1.1.4.4]
OVER OPPONENTS’ TAKEOUT DOUBLE Responsive Double: 3♠, Maximal Overcall Double: 3♥ IMPORTANT NOTES THAT DON’T FIT ELSEWHERE
1m-(X): Overcall Structure ON, 1M-(X): Transfers and Fit Jump Garozzo 2/3 Double: 3♠ [18.1.6.1], Pass-Double Inversion [18.1.6.2]
1NT-(X): P = Relay XX: to play or DONT Runout, Bid = System ON Positive Slam Double [18.1.8], Lead-Directing Double [18.1.9]
XX = Relay 2♣: to play or 3-suiter short ♣ PSYCHICS: Sometimes
 ARTIFICIAL

OF CARDS

NEG. DBL
OPENING

MIN. No.
TICK IF
PASSED HAND BIDDING/

THRU
DESCRIPTION RESPONSES SUBSEQUENT AUCTION OTHER DEVELOPMENT
♣♦♥♠

1♣ √ 0 (1) 13-17 unbal 1♦ = Waiting, 1♥/♠ = 5+♥/♠ FG, 1NT = Bal FG After 1♦: 1♥/♠ = 13-17 5+♥/♠, 1NT = 15-17 Bal / (4441) Over Interfere:
(2) 15-17 bal 2♣ = 6+♣ / 5♣-4♥/♠ FG, 2♦ = 6+♦ FG 2♣ = 13-17 6+♣ / 5♣-4♥/♠, 2♦ = 13-17 6+♦ Overcall System ON
2♥/♠ = 4♥/♠-5+♦ FG, 2NT = 54+ minor FG [3.1] 2♥/♠ = 13-17 4♥/♠-5+♦, 2NT = 13-17 54+ minor Penalty Double by Opener
3X = 13-17 6+X INV [3.2] [5.1]
After Other FG Response: Refer to corresponding Opening
1♦ √ 0 Any 18+ 1♥ = Negative, 1♠ = FG Waiting After 1♥: 1♠ = Art FG, Other = Nat NF [4.2] Over Interfere:
1NT thru 2♥ = TRF good suit FG, 2♠ = Any 55+ FG After 1♠: Natural Development (System ON after NT bids) Overcall System ON
2NT thru 3♥ = TRF solid suit FG [4.1] After TRF: Natural Development Forcing Pass by Opener
After 2♠: Suit = Nat, 2NT = Waiting: [4.3] with Garozzo 2/3 double
3♣ = ♣+♥/♠, 3♦ = ♥+♠, 3♥/♠ = ♦+♠/♥, 3NT/4♣ = ♣+♦ FG/SI [4.1]
1♥ 5 8-12 5+♥ 1♠/2♣/2♦ = Nat NF, 1NT = INV+ Relay After 1NT: 2♣ = Any Min, 2♦ = Any 5♥-(440), 2♥/♠ = Max 4+♣/♦ After X: Transfers [7.1]
2NT = 54+ minors INV 2NT = 6+♥, 3X = 4+♠ [6.1]
2♠ = ♠+♣ FG, 3♣ = ♣+♦ FG, 3♦ = ♦+♠ FG After JS: 2nd suit = Fit, 3M/3NT = No fit without / with stopper [6.2]
3NT = Non-forcing, Double JS = Exclusive RKC [6.1]
1♠ 5 8-12 5+♠ 2♣/2♦/2♥ = Nat NF, 1NT = INV+ Relay After 1NT: 2♣ = Any Min, 2♦ = Any 5♠-(440), 2♥/♠ = Max 4+♣/♦ After X: Transfers [7.1]
2NT = 54+ minors INV 2NT = 6+♠, 3X = 4+♥ [6.1]
3♣ = ♣+♦ FG, 3♦ = ♦+♥ FG, 3♥ = ♥+♣ FG After JS: 2nd suit = Fit, 3M/3NT = No fit without / with stopper [6.2]
3NT = Non-forcing, Double JS = Exclusive RKC [6.1]
1NT √ 12-14 balanced 2♣ = Relay 2♦ [8.1], 2♥ = Jacoby Transfer [8.2] 3♣ = 55+ Majors GI+ [8.5], 3♦ = 5-card Stayman [8.6] After 1NT-(X): Bids = System ON
5M / (4441) possible 2♦ = Jacoby Transfer / FG 3-suiter [8.2] 3♥/♠ = (31)(54) SPL ♥/♠ FG [8.7], 4♣ = Roman Gerber [15.5] P = Relay XX, XX = Relay 2♣
2♠ = INV+ no 4M / RKC [8.3], 2NT = TRF 3♣ [8.4] 4♦/♥ = Texas Transfer [8.8], 4♠/4NT = Quantitative, 6-/7+ controls Rubensohl after intervene [8.9]
2♣ √ 5 8-12 6+♣ / 5♣-4♥/♠ 2♦ = Relay, 2♥/♠ = 5+♥/♠ NF, 2NT = Relay 3♣ After 2♦: 2♥ = 4+♥ / Any max, 2♠ = 4+♠ min By PH: NS = NF, 2NT = L/R [9.4]
3♦/♥ = 6+♥/♠ INV+, 3♠ = 6+♠-4♥ FG, 3NT = NF 2NT = 6+♣ with 2 stoppers, 3♣ = 6+♣ with 1 stopper [9.2]
4♣ = RKC, 4♦ = 55+ Majors FG, 4♥/♠ = NF [9.1] After 2NT-3♣: 3♦ = 54+ Majors FG, 3♥/♠ = 5+♦-5+♥/♠ FG [9.3]
2♦ √ 6 8-12 6+♦ 2♥ = Relay, 2♠/NT = 5+♠/♥ F1, 3♣ = Relay 3♦ After 2♥: 2♠/2NT/3♣ = Min, Show Stopper(s) up-the-line (NT=♥) By PH: NS = NF, 2NT = L/R [10.6]
3♦/♥ = 6+♥/♠ INV+, 3♠ = 6+♠-4♥ FG, 3NT = NF 3♦ = 6+♦ with 1 stopper, 3NT = 6+♦ with ♥+♠ stopper
4♣ = 55+ Majors FG, 4♦ = RKC, 4♥/♠ = NF [10.1] 3♥/♠ = 6+♦ with ♣+♥/♠ stopper [10.2]
After 3♣-3♦: 3♥/♠ = 5+♦-5+♥/♠ FG
3NT/4♣ = 55+ Majors FG/SI [10.3]
2♥/♠ √ 4 8-12 4♥/♠-5+♦ 2♠ = NF, 2NT = INV, 3♣ = L/R in ♦, 3♦ = NF By PH: 2NT = L/R in ♥/♠ [11.2]
3♥/♠ = INV, 3♠/♥ = Nat F1, 3NT = NF 3♣ = L/R in ♦
4♣ = RKC in ♥/♠, 4♦ = RKC in ♦ [11.1]
2NT 8-12 54+ minors 3♣/♦ = NF, 3♥/♠ = Nat F1, 3NT = NF, 4♣/♦ = RKC HIGH LEVEL BIDDING/CUE-BIDDING
4♥/♠ = NF, 4NT = INV, 5♣/♦ = NF [12.1] RKC (14-03-2-2) and modifications [15.2]: Cue-Bidding [15.1]
3♣/♦ 6 PRE Raise = NF, 3X = F1, 3NT = NF, 4♦/♣ = RKC [13] 4m-RKC, Weak RKC (PRE) 1) Fast Arrival Principle
4♥/♠ = NF, 4NT = TAB Exclusive RKC, Reflexive RKC (3-suiter) 2) 1st or 2nd round
3♥/♠ 6 PRE 3♠ = F1, 3NT = NF, 4♣ = RKC, 4♦ = TAB [13] Roman Gerber (14-03-2) [15.3] 3) Partner’s suit = Ace/King (Q in 2nd round)
3NT √ 7 Good PRE in Any Suit 4♣ = F1, 4♦ = 2 Aces, 4NT = 3 Aces, 4M = NF [14] Leap to 5M [15.5], 5NT = pick a slam 4) Cue after pd Skip implies cue in that suit
4X 7 PRE New Suit = CAB, 4NT = RKC Grand Slam Force [15.6] 5) Modified Turbo [15.4]
4NT √ 55+ minors PRE 6) Last Train Slam Try [15.7]
5♣/♦ 8 PRE
Modified Major Diamond P. 1 Modified Major Diamond P. 2

1. Index 2. Opening Bid Structure

10. 2♦ OPENING ............................................................ 8 17.2. 1NT / 2NT OPENINGS / REBID........................... 16
10.1. RESPONSES TO 2♦ ............................................... 8 17.2.1. DONT ....................................................... 16
10.2. RELAY DEVELOPMENT ........................................ 8 17.3. 2-LEVEL OPENINGS ............................................ 16
1. INDEX ........................................................................... 1 10.3. 2♦-2♠................................................................. 8 17.4. JUNKYARD DEFENSE .......................................... 16 1♣ Any 13-17 unbal / 15-17 bal or (4441)
2. OPENING BID STRUCTURE ............................................ 2 10.4. 2♦-2NT .............................................................. 8 17.5. WEAK-BOTH-MINORS-2NT................................ 16 1♦ Any 18+
3. 1♣ OPENING................................................................. 2 10.5. 3♣ RELAY ........................................................... 8 17.6. 3-/4-LEVEL OPENINGS........................................ 17 1♥/♠ 8-12 5+♥/♠
3.1. RESPONSES .......................................................... 2 10.6. PASSED HAND BIDDING ....................................... 8 17.7. ASTRO AGAINST GAMBLING 3NT ...................... 17 1NT 11-14 bal, maybe 4441
3.2. 1♦ WAITING ........................................................ 2 11. 2♥/♠ OPENING ........................................................ 8 17.8. NAMYATS 4M ..................................................... 17 2♣ 8-12 6+♣ / 5♣-4♥/♠
4. 1♦ OPENING................................................................. 3 11.1. RESPONSES TO 2♥/♠ ........................................... 8 17.9. STRONG 1♣/1♦/2♣/2♦ ..................................... 17 2♦ 8-12 6+♦, may have 4♣
4.1. RESPONSES .......................................................... 3 11.2. PASSED HAND BIDDING ....................................... 8 17.10. AGAINST TRANSFER BIDS.............................. 17 2♥/♠ 8-12 4♥/♠-5+♦
4.2. 1♥ NEGATIVE ...................................................... 3 12. 2NT OPENING.......................................................... 9 18. OTHER CONVENTIONS............................................ 17 2NT 8-12 54+ minors, length difference<2
4.3. 2-SUITER 2♠ ........................................................ 3 12.1. RESPONSES TO 2NT............................................. 9 18.1.1. RUBENSOHL ............................................... 17 3X PRE
5. COMPETITIVE AGREEMENTS ......................................... 3 13. PRE-EMPTIVE OPENINGS .......................................... 9 18.1.1.1. GENERAL GUIDELINES ...................... 17 3NT Good PRE in any suit
5.1. 1M OPENING ........................................................ 3 14. 3NT GOOD PRE ...................................................... 9 18.1.1.2. SPECIAL USES OF RUBENSOHL.......... 17 4X PRE
5.1.1. DIRECT INTERFERE ...................................... 3 15. SLAM BIDDING ........................................................ 9 18.1.2. ASKING BIDS .............................................. 17 4NT 55+ minors, PRE
5.1.2. 4TH SEAT INTERFERE .................................... 3 15.1. CUE-BID STYLE ................................................... 9 18.1.2.1. TRUMP ASKING BID .......................... 17 5m PRE
6. 1♥/♠ OPENING ............................................................ 3 15.2. ROMAN KEY-CARD BLACKWOOD ....................... 9 18.1.2.2. CONTROL ASKING BID ...................... 17
6.1. 1NT FORCING ...................................................... 3 15.3. ROMAN GERBER .................................................. 9 18.1.3. INTERFERE IN TRANSFER/ASKING SEQUENCES18 4th Seat Modifications:
6.2. FG 2-SUITER ........................................................ 4 15.4. MODIFIED TURBO .............................................. 10 18.1.3.1. IN TRANSFER SEQUENCE .................. 18 1♣ Any 16-19
7. COMPETITIVE AGREEMENTS ......................................... 4 15.5. LEAP TO 5M ...................................................... 10 18.1.3.2. AFTER SPLINTER BID ........................ 18 1♦ Any 20+
7.1. 1M OPENING ....................................................... 4 15.6. GRAND SLAM FORCE ......................................... 10 18.1.3.3. AFTER ASKING BID........................... 18
1♥/♠ 12-15 5+♥/♠
7.1.1. DIRECT INTERFERE ...................................... 4 15.7. LAST TRAIN SLAM TRY ..................................... 10 18.1.3.4. AFTER RKC...................................... 18
1NT 12-15 bal, maybe 4441
7.1.2. 4TH SEAT INTERFERE .................................... 4 16. 2NT DEVELOPMENT .............................................. 10 18.1.4. COMPETITIVE DOUBLE ............................... 18
2♣ 12-15 6+♣/5♣-4♥/♠
8. 1NT OPENING .............................................................. 4 16.1. NEITHER PLAYER SHOW REAL SUIT ................... 10 18.1.5. UNUSUAL AGAINST UNUSUAL ..................... 18
18.1.5.1. 2 KNOWN SUITS ................................ 18 2♦ 12-15 6+♦
8.1. MODIFIED KERI 2♣.............................................. 4 16.1.1. ROMEX STAYMAN ........................................ 10 2♥/♠ 12-15 4♥/♠-5+♦
8.1.1. MAJOR INV.................................................. 4 18.1.5.2. 1 KNOWN SUIT .................................. 18
16.1.1.1. 4♣ MINOR-ASKING ...........................11 2NT 12-15 54+ minors
18.1.6. FORCING PASSES ........................................ 18
8.1.2. FG INQUIRY ................................................. 5 16.1.2. JACOBY TRANSFER TO ♥/♠ ..........................11 3X PRE but some playing strength
18.1.6.1. GAROZZO 2/3 DOUBLE ..................... 18
8.1.2.1. 4♣ MINOR-ASKING ................................ 5 16.1.3. WALSH 3♠ ..................................................11 18.1.6.2. PASS-DOUBLE INVERSION................. 19 3NT Good PRE in any suit
8.1.3. AFTER SUPER-ACCEPTING ............................ 5 16.1.4. MINOR TRANSFERS ......................................11 4X PRE but some playing strength
8.2. MODIFIED JACOBY TRANSFER ............................. 5 18.1.7. LEAD-DIRECTING PASS ............................... 19
16.1.5. TEXAS TRANSFER ........................................11 18.1.8. POSITIVE SLAM DOUBLE ............................. 19 4NT 55+ minors, PRE but some playing strength
8.2.1. 2♠ 3-SUITER ................................................ 5 16.2. OPPONENTS SHOW REAL SUIT ............................11 5m PRE but some playing strength
18.1.9. LEAD-DIRECTING DOUBLE.......................... 19
8.2.2. 2NT AFTER TRANSFER .................................. 5 17. DEFENSIVE BIDDING ...............................................11 19. DEFENSIVE CARDING ............................................. 19
3♣ AFTER TRANSFER .................................... 5
3. 1♣ Opening
8.2.3. 17.1. 1-LEVEL NATURAL OPENINGS .............................11 19.1. LEAD STYLE ...................................................... 19
8.2.4. 3♦ 1-SUITER ................................................ 5 17.1.1. SUIT OVERCALL ..........................................11 19.2. GENERAL SIGNALING METHOD ......................... 19
8.2.5. 3♥/♠ M+♣/♦ 2-SUITER .............................. 6 17.1.1.1. RULES FOR RESPONDING TO 19.3. SECOND PLAY IN THE SAME SUIT ....................... 20
8.3.
8.4.
RANGE PROBE OR RKC...................................... 6
TRANSFER TO ♣................................................... 6
OVERCALL 11
17.1.1.2. RULES FOR OVERCALLER ................. 13
19.4. SPECIAL THIRD HAND PLAY .............................. 20 3.1. Responses
19.5. TRUMP ECHO ..................................................... 20
8.5. 3♣ BOTH MAJORS ............................................... 6 17.1.1.2.1. OVER A NATURAL F1 RESPONSE... 13 19.6. COUNT SIGNALS ................................................ 19
8.6. 5-CARD STAYMAN ................................................ 6 17.1.1.2.2. OVER A TRANSFER RESPONSE ....... 13 1♣-?
19.6.1. MODIFICATIONS AND EXCEPTIONS: ............. 19 Waiting, not necessarily weak
8.7. 5431 CONVENTION .............................................. 6 17.1.1.2.3. OVER A JUMP SUPPORTIVE 2NT ... 13 1♦
19.7. SUIT PREFERENCE SIGNALS ............................... 20 Other FG, Same meaning as opening
8.8. TEXAS TRANSFER ................................................ 6 17.1.1.3. RULES FOR OVERCALLER ................. 13 19.8. THE WAKEUP SIGNAL ........................................ 20
8.9. COMPETITIVE AUCTIONS ..................................... 7 17.1.1.4. IF RESPONDER BIDS .......................... 13
8.9.1. IF OPPS DOUBLED ........................................ 7 17.1.1.4.1. RESPONDER RAISES ..................... 13 After a game-forcing response by responder,
8.9.2. IF RHO OVERCALLED .................................. 7 17.1.1.4.2. RESPONDER BIDS NT................... 13 development is same as after an opening.
8.9.2.1. NATURAL OVERCALL .............................. 7 17.1.1.4.3. RESPONDER BIDS NEW SUIT ........ 13
8.9.2.2. ARTIFICIAL 2♣........................................ 7 17.1.1.4.4. RESPONDER DOUBLES ................. 13 3.2. 1♦ Waiting
8.9.2.3. 2-SUITER OVERCALL ............................... 7 17.1.1.4.5. RESPONDER CUE-BIDS ................. 13
8.9.2.4. ARTIFICIAL OVERCALL, NO SUIT KNOWN7 17.1.2. TAKEOUT DOUBLE ..................................... 14
17.1.2.1. RULES FOR RESPONDING TO TAKEOUT 1♣-1♦-?
8.9.2.5. ARTIFICIAL OVERCALL, SUIT(S) KNOWN . 7 1♥/♠ 13-17 5+♥/♠
9. 2♣ OPENING................................................................. 7 DOUBLE 14
17.1.2.1.1. OVER A TRANSFER RESPONSE ....... 14 1NT 15-17 bal, maybe 4441
9.1. RESPONSES TO 2♣ ............................................... 7 2♣ 13-17 6+♣/5♣-4♥/♠
9.2. RELAY DEVELOPMENT ......................................... 7 17.1.2.2. IF RESPONDER BIDS .......................... 14
17.1.2.2.1. RESPONDER RAISES ..................... 14 2♦ 13-17 6+♦
9.3. 2NT RELAY ......................................................... 8
17.1.2.2.2. RESPONDER BIDS NT................... 14 2♥/♠ 13-17 4♥/♠-5+♦
9.4. PASSED HAND BIDDING ....................................... 8
17.1.2.2.3. RESPONDER BIDS NEW SUIT ........ 14 2NT 13-17 54+ minors
17.1.2.2.4. RESPONDER REDOUBLES ............. 14 3X 6+X good suit, INV
17.1.3. BALANCING ................................................ 15
17.1.4. SANDWICH POSITION.................................. 15 After opener’s rebid, development is same as after an
17.1.5. GHESTEM .................................................. 16 opening.
17.1.5.1.1. RULES .......................................... 16
Modified Major Diamond P. 3 Modified Major Diamond P. 4

4. 1♦ Opening 5. Competitive Agreements 6.2. FG 2-suiter 8. 1NT Opening

1M-JS-?
4.1. Responses 5.1. 1m Opening 2nd suit Fit, ask cue-bid
An overview of the responses to 1NT:

3M No fit in either suit, 2♣ Modified Keri 2♣, Relay 2♦

1♦-? 5.1.1. Direct Interfere no good stopper in 4th suit 2♦ Jacoby Transfer to ♥ OR FG 3-suiter
1♥ Any 0-6 3NT No fit in either suit, good stopper in 4th suit
2♥ Jacoby Transfer to ♠
1♠ 7+, Waiting (Natural Development, Use Overcall System, except strength requirement Other Fit lower suit, cue-bid
2♠ Range Probe OR RKC in any suit
system ON after NT rebid) could be less. 2NT Transfer to ♣
1NT->2♥ TRF 6+ good suit FG (Natural Development)
2♠ Any 55+ 2-suiter FG (2NT = Waiting) 7. Competitive Agreements 3♣ 55+ Majors INV+
5.1.2. 4th seat Interfere 3♦ 5-card Stayman
2NT->3♥ TRF 6+ solid suit FG (Natural Development)
(13)(54) SPL ♥/♠ FG
7.1. 1M Opening
3♥/♠
Forcing Pass after 1♦ opening 3NT To play
4.2. 1♥ Negative Penalty Double 4♣ Roman Gerber (14-30-2)
Cue is takeout, either good shape or strength 7.1.1. Direct Interfere 4♦ Texas Transfer to ♥
1♦-1♥-? 4♥ Texas Transfer to ♠
1♠
Other
Any FG
Natural NF
6. 1♥/♠ Opening Generally lots of transfers are used, and the basic
rules are summarized below:
4♠
4NT
7+ controls, quantitative+
0-6 controls, quantitative
5♣/♦ To play
1♦-1♥-1♠-? 1M-? 1 X/XX = Transfer to next bid, exceptions:
1NT INV+ Relay
1NT->2♥ TRF 5+ suit (Natural Development)
(4441) (2NT = Ask TRF stiff, Other = Nat) New Suit Natural NF (Cheapest suit maybe 4-card)
1.1 After 1♠ overcall, X = takeout or FG bal
1.2 After 1NT overcall, X = Penalty
8.1. Modified Keri 2♣
2♠
2M 3+M NF 1.3 After Jump overcall, Negative X through 3♠
2NT->3♥ TRF 4-card suit up-the-line in bal hand
2NT 54+ minors INV (3m = NF) 2 Non-jump responses are transfers 1NT-2♣-?
JS FG with the suit bid and the next suit 3 Transfer cue-bid is limit raise or better 2♦ No 5♦, not 5♣-3♦
1♦-1♥-1♠-2NT/3♣/3♦-? 3M 4+M PRE 4 Cue-bid at 2-level shows a good 5-5 2♥/♠ 5♦-3♥/♠
Accept Ask for 4-card side suit (3NT = 4333) 3NT Non-forcing 5 2NT and 3-level are transfers: 2NT 5♣-3♦
3NT Non-forcing DJS 4+M, exclusive RKC in suit bid
4NT Quantitative 5.1 If Jump then it shows a good 6-card suit and
4M Non-forcing invitational 1NT-2♣-2♦-?
Other Fit start cue
5.2 If non-jump then same as normal transfer 2♥/♠ 4-5♥/♠, INV
1♦-1♥-1♠-3♥-? 6.1. 1NT Forcing 6 Jump cue-bid shows FG hand and SPL in 2NT Game-forcing Inquiry, shape-asking
3NT Non-forcing opponent’s suit 3♣ 5+♣-5+♦, FG
4NT Quantitative 1M-1NT-? 7 3♠ is a transfer to 3NT 3♦ 5+♦-4♥, FG (3♥ = Fit-♥, Other = Fit-♦)
Other Fit start cue 2♣ Any minimum not 3-suiter 8 Unusual Against Unusual 3♥ 5+♦-4♠, FG (3♠ = Fit-♠, Other = Fit-♦)
(2♦ = FG Relay: See Max, Other = Nat INV) 8.1 Lower cue-bid = Limit Raise or Better 3♠ 6+♦, SI
8.2 Higher cue-bid = 4th suit INV+
4.3. 2-suiter 2♠ 2♦ 5M-(440), any strength 3NT
4♣
5♦-332, SI (4♦ = RKC)
6+♦-4♣ FG (4♦ = Fit-♦, Other = Fit-♣)
2♥/♠ Maximum, 5+M-4♣/♦ (2NT = Waiting)
2NT Maximum, 6+M, not 4-card side suit 7.1.2. 4th seat Interfere 4NT 6+♦ balanced, SI
1♦-2♠-2NT-?
3X Maximum, 5+M-4oM, natural rebids
3♣ 5+♣-5+M
3♦ 5+♥-5+♠ (3♥/♠ = Fit-♥/♠ ask cue)
1 X = Supportive double thru 3♣ 8.1.1. Major INV
After showing a 2-suits, opener’s rebid is in natural 2 Raise = Nat, no promise extras
3♥/♠ 5+♦-5+♠/♥ (4♦ = Fit-♦, Other = Fit-M cue) sense: bidding a 3-card fragment, showing a 6-card+ 3 Cue = Good Raise if suit shown, otherwise
3NT 5+♣-5+♦ FG (4♣/♦ = Fit-♣/♦ ask cue) 1NT-2♣-2♦-2M-?
major, bidding second suit to show a fifth card or 3NT general forcing
4♣ 5+♣-5+♦ SI (4♦ = Fit-♦, Other = Fit-♣ cue) 2♠ Minimum, 4+♠
with 5422.
2NT Minimum, not fit-M
1♦-2♠-2NT-3♣-? (3♣/♦ = 5+♣/♦ INV, 3♥ = 5+M-4oM NF)
1M-1NT-2♦-?
3♦ Ask Major: Similar to ♦+M development 3♣ Maximum, 4oM (4♦/♥ = Re-transfer)
2M INV (Bid Void with Maximum)
3NT To play 3♦ Maximum, any 4333
2oM Pass or Correct (2NT with void oM)
Other Fit-♣ cue-bid 2NT FG Relay 3M/4M Maximum, 3/4+M
3X Nat INV 3oM Maximum, 5oM
Notes: 3NT Maximum, no 3M/4oM
1. In all situations, 3NT is to play 1M-1NT-2♦-2NT-?
2. Bid shown Major at 3-level always shows fit and 3♣/♦ Stiff ♣/♦ (3NT = NF, Other = Fit)
ask cue 3♥ Void oM
3. If one of the two suits cannot be fit below game, (3NT = NF, 3♠ = Fit-M, 4♣/♦ = Fit-♣/♦)
then one can only fit the minor, other bids other
than 3NT shows fit in the other suit and is
cue-bid.
Modified Major Diamond P. 5 Modified Major Diamond P. 6
8.1.2. FG Inquiry 8.2.1. 2♠ 3-suiter 8.2.5. 3♥/♠ M+♣/♦ 2-suiter 8.5. 3♣ Both Majors
1NT-2♣-2♦-2NT-? 1NT-2♦-2♥-2♠-2NT-? 1NT-2R-2M-3♥/♠-? 1NT-3♣-?
3♣ No 5-card suit, not 4333 3♣ 4414 (Reflexive RKC) 3♠ ♠-stopper, heading for 3NT 3♦ Any Minimum
(3♦ = Stayman, 3M/4M = 5/6M) 3♦ 4144 (Reflexive RKC) 3NT No fit, good stopper 3♥/♠ Maximum, fit-♥/♠, control in one minor
3♦ Any 4333 (3M/4M = 4/5+M, 4m = RKC in m) 3♥ 1444 (Reflexive RKC) 4♣/♦ Fit-♣/♦, good values for slam 3NT No fit for Majors, extreme strength in minors
3♥/♠ 5♥/♠ 3♠ 4441 (Reflexive RKC) 4♦/♣ Fit-M, good values for slam 4♣/♦ Maximum, fit-♥/♠, no control in minors
3NT 3325 (4♣ = RKC in ♣, 4♦/♥ = Transfer) 4M Fit-M, bad values for slam 4♥/♠ Maximum, fit-♥/♠, control in minors
8.2.2. 2NT after Transfer 4NT Fit-♣/♦, Even Key-Card, bad values for slam
8.1.2.1. 4♣ Minor-Asking 5♣/♦ Fit-♣/♦, Odd Key-Card, bad values for slam 1NT-3♣-3♦-?
1NT-2♦/♥-2♥/♠-2NT-? 3♥ Majors INV
1NT-2♣-2♦-2NT-3♣-3♦-3♥/♠/NT -4♣-? 3♣ Pass or Correct 8.3. Range Probe OR RKC 3♠ Majors SI
4♦ 4+♣ (4♥ = Relay for 4♣/5♣) 3♦ Relay 3NT Non-forcing
4♥ 4+♦ (4♠ = Relay for 4♦/5♦) 3♥/♠ Fit-♥/♠, Non-forcing 1NT-2♠-?
4♠ 4+♣-4+♦ 3♠/♥ (52)33 2NT Minimum Afterwards the bidding is in natural basis. Responder
4NT No 4♣/♦ 3NT 2♥/♠, no 5-card ♠/♥ Maximum cue-bids with slam interest, or simply sign-off without
3♣
4♥/♠ Fit-♥/♠, Non-forcing slam values. However, responder may bid 4♦/♥ as
8.1.3. After Super-Accepting 1NT-2♠-2NT-?
re-transfer.

8.2.3. 3♣ after Transfer 3♣/♦ 6+♣/♦ INV

1NT-2♣-2M-? 3♥/♠ RKC in ♥/♠ 8.6. 5-card Stayman
2♠ 5+♠ FG 1NT-2R-2M-3♣-? 3NT To play
2NT INV, maybe not balanced 3♦ Relay 4♣/♦ RKC in ♣/♦ 1NT-3♦-?
3♣ Re-transfer to ♦, pass or strong with ♦ 3♥/♠ 3+♥/♠, fit ask cue 4NT Invite slam unless very minimum 3♥ 5+♥ or 4 good ♥ (4m = 6-card+)
3♦/♥/♠ 5+M, cue-bid 3♠/♥ (52)33 3♠ 5+♠ or 4 good ♠ (4m = 6-card+)
3NT To play 1NT-2♠-3♣-? 3NT No 5M, no good 4-card Major
3NT 2♥/♠, no 5-card ♠/♥
3♦ Ask for 5-card Major
4X 4+♥/♠, concentrated values
RKC in ♥/♠
8.7. 5431 Convention
1NT-2♣-2NT-? 3♥/♠
3♣ Re-transfer to ♦, pass or strong with ♦ 3NT To play
1NT-2R-2M-2NT/3♣-3♦-?
3♦ Fit-♣, FG 4♣/♦ RKC in ♣/♦
3♥ Short ♣ or no shortness (3♠ = Fit-M) 1NT-3♥/♠-?
3M 5+M FG 4NT Invite slam unless very maximum
4m after 3♠/NT = No stiff, 4m, SI 3♠ 5♠
3♠ Short ♦ 3NT To play
8.2. Modified Jacoby Transfer 3NT Short oM NF (4oM = Ask minor)
After RKC at 3-level, opener may show no support
with a 3NT rebid, after which responder may re-ask 4♣/♦ Fit-♣/♦, maximum
4♣ Short oM SI (4oM = Ask minor) 4♥/♠ Ask transfer to longer minor
with 4♣. If the RKC is at 4-level, opener must respond.
1NT-2♦-2♥-? 4♦ 6+M-4♣ SI 4♠/♥ To play
2♠ Relay 2NT, 3-suiter FG 4M 6+M-4♦ SI
2NT 5+♥-4m INV 4oM 6+M-4♦ SF 8.4. Transfer to ♣ 4NT
5♣/♦
RKC in oM
Fit-♣/♦, minimum
3♣ 5+♥-4m FG
1NT-2NT-3♣-?
8.8. Texas Transfer
3♦ 6+♥ GI / SI 1NT-2R-2M-2NT/3♣-3♦-3NT/4♣-4oM?
3♥/♠ 5+♥-5+♣/♦ FG 4NT 4♣-4♦ 3♦ 5+♣-4♥, FG (3♥ = Fit-♥, Other = Fit-♣)
3NT 5♥-332 choice of game 5♣/♦ 4♣/♦ 3♥ 5+♣-4♠, FG (3♠ = Fit-♠, Other = Fit-♣)
4♣/♦ 6+♥-4♠ SPL ♣/♦ FG 3♠ 6+♣, SI 1NT-4♦/♥-4♥/♠-?
4NT
4♥ 6+♥ mild slam interest, usually no stiff 8.2.4. 3♦ 1-suiter 3NT 5♣-332, SI (4♣ = RKC) 6+♥/♠ balanced SI
New Suit Exclusive RKC
4NT 5♥-332 SI 4♣ 6+♣-4♦ FG (4♦ = Fit-♦, Other = Fit-♣)
1NT-2R-2M-3♦-? 4NT 6+♣ balanced, SI
1NT-2♥-2♠-? 3M Minimum, not accept INV
2NT 5+♠-4m INV (NS = SPL, 3NT = Bal SI, 4M = To play)
3♣ 5+♠-4m FG 3oM Non-minimum (NS = SPL, 3NT = Bal SI,
3♦ 6+♠ GI / SI 4M = To play, 4NT = RKC)
3♥/♠ 5+♠-5+♣/♦ FG 3NT Non-minimum, Good controls
3NT 5♠-332 choice of game (NS = SPL, 4M = To play, 4NT = RKC)
4♣/♦ 6+♠-4♥ SPL ♣/♦ FG
4♥ 55+ Majors Game Only
4♠ 6+♠ mild slam interest, usually no stiff
4NT 5♠-332 SI
Modified Major Diamond P. 7 Modified Major Diamond P. 8

8.9. Competitive Auctions 9. 2♣ Opening 9.3. 2NT Relay 10.4. 2♦-2NT

8.9.1. If Opps doubled 9.1. Responses to 2♣

2♣-2NT-3♣-? 2♦-2NT-?
Pass Sign-off 3♣/♠ Maximum, no 3♥, stoppers in ♣/♠
1NT-(X)-? 3♦ 54+ Majors FG (3♥/♠=3+♥/♠) 3♦ Minimum, no 3♥
2♣-? 3♥/♠ 5+♦-5+♥/♠ FG 3♥ Minimum, 3♥
Pass Relay XX, to play or DONT Runout
2♦ Relay, INV+ 3NT+
XX Relay 2♣, sign-off in ♣ OR 3-suiter short ♣ Maximum, 3♥, cue-bid
Other System ON 2♥/♠
2NT
5+♥/♠ NF
9.4. Passed Hand Bidding
10.5. 3♣ Relay
Puppet 3♣, sign-off or 2-suiter FG
1NT-P-(X)-? 3♣/♦/♥ 6+♦/♥/♠ INV+
3♠ 6+♠-4♥ FG 2♣-?
P Nothing special
3NT Non-forcing 2♦/♥/♠ Natural NF 2♦-3♣-3♦-?
XX Any 5-card suit
4♣ RKC in ♣ 2NT INV Raise Pass Sign-off
55+ Majors FG, Pick your better Major 3♣ To play, no necessary preemptive 3♥/♠ 5+♣-5+♥/♠ FG
1NT-P-(X)-P-? 4♦
XX Relay 2♣, sign-off in ♣ OR 3-suiter short ♣ 4♥/♠ Non-forcing 3NT/4♣ 5+♥-5+♠ FG/SI
Bid DONT Runout 10. 2♦ Opening
9.2. Relay Development 10.6. Passed Hand Bidding
1NT-P-(X)-P-XX-2♣-?
Pass Sign-off in ♣ 10.1. Responses to 2♦ 2♦-?
2♣-2♦-?
2♦ 3-suiter short ♣ 2♥/♠ Natural NF
2♥ 4♥ minimum / Any Maximum 2♦-?
2♠ 4♠ minimum 2NT INV Raise
1NT-P-(X)-XX-? 2♥ Relay, INV+ 3♣ Natural NF
2♣ Pass or Correct 2NT 6+♣ minimum, stoppers in 2 suits 2♠ 5+♠ F1 3♦ To play, no necessary preemptive
2♦ 3-suiter short ♣ 3♣ 6+♣ minimum, stopper in 1 suit 2NT 5+♥ F1

11. 2♥/♠ Opening

3♣ Puppet 3♦, sign-off or 2-suiter FG
2♣-2♦-2♥-?
8.9.2. If RHO Overcalled 2♠ Relay
3♦/♥ 6+♥/♠ INV+
3♠ 6+♠-4♥ FG
2NT/3♣ INV with / without 4♥
8.9.2.1. Natural Overcall 3♦/♥/♠ 5+♦/♥/♠ FG
3NT
4♣
Non-forcing
55+ Majors FG, Pick your better Major
11.1. Responses to 2♥/♠
Takeout Double 4♦ RKC in ♦
2♣-2♦-2♥-2♠-? 2M-?
Rubensohl 4♥/♠ Non-forcing
2NT 6+♣ maximum (3♣ = Relay for stoppers) 2♠ Nat NF
Roman Gerber 2NT INV
3♣ 4♥ minimum
Texas Transfer, and transfer cue = Splinter SI+
3♦/♥/♠ 4♦/♥/♠ maximum 10.2. Relay Development 3♣ Fit-♦ INV
3NT 6+♣ maximum, stoppers in 3 suits 3♦ Non-forcing
8.9.2.2. Artificial 2♣ 2♦-2♥-? 3M INV
2♣-2♦-2♥-2♠-2NT-3♣-? 2♠ Minimum, ♠ stopper 3oM 5+oM F1
X = Keri 2♣ 3♦ 1 stopper (3♥/♠ = ♦+♥/♠ stoppers, 2NT Minimum, ♥ stopper, no ♠ stopper 3NT Non-forcing
Bid = System ON 4♣/♦ RKC in M/♦
3NT = ♥+♠ stoppers) 3♣ Minimum, ♣ stopper, no ♥/♠ stopper
3♥/♠ ♦+♥/♠ stoppers 3♦ Maximum, 1 stopper
8.9.2.3. 2-suiter overcall 3NT ♥+♠ stoppers (3♥/♠ = ♣+♥/♠ stoppers, 11.2. Passed Hand Bidding
3NT = ♥+♠ stoppers)
Treat it as natural overcall.
2♣-2♦-2NT-? 3♥/♠ Maximum, ♣+♥/♠ stoppers 2♥/♠-?
If 1 suit is shown, that suit is the anchor suit.
3♣ Non-forcing 3NT Maximum, ♥+♠ stoppers 2NT INV Raise of ♥/♠
If 2 suits are shown, treat the lower suit as the
anchor suit. 3♦ Relay for stopper (3♥/♠ = ♦+♥/♠ stoppers, 3♣ Fit-♦ INV
3NT = ♥+♠ stoppers) 10.3. 2♦-2♠ 3♦ Non-forcing
8.9.2.4. Artificial Overcall, NO suit known 3♥/♠ 5+♥/♠ FG
2♦-2♠-?
2♣-2♦-3♣-?
X = Suggest Penalty
Non-forcing
2NT Maximum, no 3♠, stoppers in ♣+♥
3♣
Bid = Same as after Natural Overcall 3♣/♥ Maximum, no 3♠, stoppers in ♣/♥
3♦ Relay for stopper (3♥/♠ = ♥/♠ stopper,
3♦ Minimum, no 3♠
8.9.2.5. Artificial Overcall, suit(s) known 3NT = ♦ stoppers)
3♠ Minimum, 3♠
3♥/♠ 5+♥/♠ FG
3NT+ Maximum, 3♠, cue-bid
X = Suggest Penalty
Michaels at 2-level
Bid = Same as after Natural Overcall
Modified Major Diamond P. 9 Modified Major Diamond P. 10

12. 2NT Opening 15.2. Roman Key-Card Blackwood 15.4. Modified Turbo 16. 2NT Development
1) 4NT after a fit, or the last-bid suit as the trump suit: Definition of By-pass Bids:
12.1. Responses to 2NT 14-03-2-2 Fit Below 3M/4m Otherwise 16.1. Neither Player show Real Suit
After 5♣/5♦, Next Bid = Ask for Trump Queen Key-Card Trump Q Key-Card Trump Q
2NT-? and the cheapest side King ♣ 4♣ 4NT 4♦ (4NT if 4♦ is nat) 5NT After 2NT shows a strong balanced hand, which may
3♣/♦ To play After 5♥/5♠, 5NT = Ask for the cheapest side ♦ 4♦ 4NT 4♥ (4NT if 4♥ is nat) 5NT include a 5-card Major, or sometimes off-shape with
3♥/♠ Natural F1 King 5422, the following scheme is used.
♥ 3NT 4NT 4♠ (4NT if 4♠ is nat) 5NT
3NT Non-forcing Or the asker can directly ask for the King of the ♠ 3NT 4NT 4NT 5NT
4♣/♦ RKC in ♣/♦ named side suit When the bidding approaches BYPASS BID, one
An overview of the responses to 2NT:
4♥/♠ Non-forcing 2) A direct 4NT after 1NT, 2NT or 3NT is not RKC bids BYPASS BID with an EVEN number of
5♣/♦ To play, not necessarily preemptive 3) 4m-RKC 2NT-?
key-cards (0/2/4) while bypassing BYPASS BID Romex Stayman
4) Reflexive RKC after 3-suiter 3♣
with an ODD number of key-cards (1/3/5).
3♦ Jacoby Transfer to ♥
13. Pre-emptive Openings
If Transfer to stiff In the cases where 4NT is NOT the BYPASS BID,
Known stiff = Relay for RKC then 4NT becomes a cue-bid in the bypassed 3♥ Jacoby Transfer to ♠
(NT = Relay Suit, can RKC in stiff) 3♠ Relay 3NT, to play OR both minors (Walsh
suit.
3X-? Other suit = Non-forcing If all the key-cards are present, then one needs to 3♠)
New Suit Natural F1 If Bidding stiff transmit this information to partner by continuing 3NT Transfer to ♣
at 3-level Suit = RKC to cue-bid. 4♣ Transfer to ♦
3NT To play 5) Weak RKC after Pre-empt Returning to 5 of agreed trump after cue-bidding 4♦ Texas Transfer to ♥
4X To play Step 1 = 0 Key-Cards, without Trump Queen asks for trump quality for slam 4♥ Texas Transfer to ♠
4♣ Weak RKC in X if not showing ♣ suit Step 2 = 0 Key-Cards, with Trump Queen 4♠ 5+ controls, quantitative+
4♦ RKC in ♣ if showing ♣ suit Step 3 = 1 Key-Card, without Trump Queen
TAB if showing Major Step 4 = 1 Key-Card, with Trump Queen 15.5. Leap to 5M 4NT
5♣/♦
0-4 controls, quantitative
To play
4M Natural NF Step 5 = 2 Key-Cards, without Trump Queen
4NT TAB if showing minor Step 6 = 2 Key-Cards, with Trump Queen INV the following things, in precise order:
a) Control in the unbid suit if we have (cue-)bid three 16.1.1. Romex Stayman
4X-? Note: suits
New Suit CAB In the following situation, 4NT is NOT RKC: b) Control in the enemy suit if not already shown 2NT-3♣-?
4NT Weak RKC As an opening bid c) Good trumps relative to the bidding if the above 3♦ No 4♥/5♠
As an overcall, when it is obviously scrambling do not apply 3♥ 4/5♥ (3♠ = Ask ♥ length, 4m = Nat)
If all suits can be fit and 4NT is a jump, then it is
14. 3NT Good PRE
3♠ 5♠ (4m = Nat)
15.6. Grand Slam Force
quantitative. 3NT 4-4 Majors
If BOTH players started cue-bid
3NT-? If EITHER player started cue-bid and 4NT is NOT 2NT-3♣-3♦-?
a jump 6T = 0/1 honor(s)
4♣ Ask for real suit F1 3♥ Ask for ♠ length
4♦ Exactly 2 Aces F1 6♣ = 1 honor + extra length
3♠ 5♠-4♥
4M 6+M good suit NF 15.3. Roman Gerber 7♣ = 2/3 honors 3NT To play
4NT Exactly 3 Aces 4♣ Minor-asking
4♣-? 15.7. Last Train Slam Try 4♦ Delayed Texas Transfer to ♥
3NT-4X-? 4♥ Delayed Texas Transfer to ♠
4♦ 1/4 Aces
Suit Real suit NF except after 4NT rebid Applies when there is one bid for slam-try
4♥ 0/3 Aces
4NT King-Asking over 4♦ (14-30-2) The only bid acts as a all-purpose slam-try 2NT-3♣-3♦-3♥-?
4♠ 2 Aces
RKC over 4M If partner implies no control in a specific suit, then 3♠ 2-3♠ (4♣ = Minor-Asking)
Blackwood otherwise (14-30-2) promises control there 3NT 4♠ (4♣ = Minor-Asking)
Subsequent Developments:
Cheapest Bid except 4NT by asker asks for Kings
15. Slam Bidding (1/4-0/3-2), or he can super-relay to ask for 2NT-3♣-3♥-3♠-?
location of Aces. 3NT 4♥ (4♣ = Minor-Asking)
After asking for Kings, asker can bid the cheapest 4♣ 5♥ max
15.1. Cue-bid Style bid except 5NT to asks for Queens (1/4-0/3-2), or 4♥ 5♥ min
he can super-relay to ask for location of Kings.
1. Fast Arrival Principle Super Relay when asker wants to know about 2NT-3♣-3NT-?
2. Italian Cue-bid (1-/2-round), not shortage if shape opener’s exact holdings, then he bids the second 4♣/♦ Transfer to ♥/♠, SI
is shown cheapest bid. 4♥/♠ To play
3. After partner skipping a suit, continue to cue With 1/3 Honor(s), responder bid the control
implies cue-bidding in skipped suit he has or does not have, or NT to show the
4. Modified Turbo relay suit
5. Last Train Slam Try With 2 Honor, responder bids in steps:
Color-Rank-Shape (CRASH)
Modified Major Diamond P. 11 Modified Major Diamond P. 12
16.1.1.1. 4♣ Minor-Asking 16.2. Opponents show Real Suit (1♣)-1♦-? (1♦)-2♣-?
1♥/♠ 4+♥/♠ F1 2♦ Transfer to ♥
After 4♣ minor asking, opener then shows his minor 1NT 9-13 balanced with stopper 2♥ Transfer to ♠
2NT-?
holding as follows: 2♣ 10+ Fit-♦ OR 14+ bal 2♠ 10+ 3+♣ OR 15+ bal
3♣ Transfer to ♦
2♦ 6-9, 3♦ with A/K 2NT 9-14 bal
3♦ Transfer to ♥
4♦ 4+♣ (4♥ = Relay for 4♣/5♣) 2♥/♠ 6+♥/♠ INV 3♣ 6-9, 3♣ with A/K
3♥ Transfer to ♠
4♥ 4+♦ (4♠ = Relay for 4♦/5♦) 2NT 15-16 balanced with double stopper 3♦ Ask ♦ stopper
3♠ Transfer to ♣ 3♣ Ask ♣ stopper
4♠ 4+♣-4+♦ 3♥ 6+♥ INV
3NT To play
3♦ 4-10 4♦ 3♠ 4-10 4♠
4♣ Roman Gerber
16.1.2. Jacoby Transfer to ♥/♠ 4♦ Transfer to ♥ (1♣)-1♥-? (1♥)-1♠-?
4♥ Transfer to ♠ 1♠ 4+♠ F1
3♦/♥ is a transfer to ♥/♠, which may be various 1NT 9-13 balanced with stopper
4NT Quantitative 1NT 9-13 balanced with stopper
strength. Opener may not super-accept. 2♣/♦ 5+♣/♦ F1
2♣ Transfer to ♦ 2♥ 10+ 3♠ OR 14+ bal
Note: Transfer to opponent’s suit = Stayman
2NT-3♦/♥-3♥/♠? 2♦ 10+ 3♥ OR 14+ bal 2♠ 4-10 3♠
3NT 5M-332 choice of game 2NT-TRE Cue-? 2♥ 4-10 3♥ 2NT 11+ 4+♠
New Suit Nat, 4-card+ in suit bid Cue No stopper, no unbid major 2♠ 6+♠ INV 3♣/♦ 6+♣/♦ INV
4M 6+M mild slam interest, usually no stiff 3NT No unbid major, stopper 2NT 11+ 4+♥ 3♥ 9-11 4♠
4NT 5M-332 SI Other With unbid major, cue 3♣ 9-11 4♥ 3♠ 4-10 4♠
3♦ 6+♦ INV
16.1.3. Walsh 3♠ 17. Defensive Bidding
3♥ 4-10 4♥ (1♥)-2♣-?
2♦ 5+♦ F1
Opener simply bid 3NT. Then responder will show his (1♣)-1♠-? 2♥ Transfer to ♠
initiation. 17.1. 1-level Natural Openings 1NT 9-13 balanced with stopper 2♠ 10+ 3+♣ OR 15+ bal
2♣ Transfer to ♦ 2NT 9-14 bal
2NT-3♠-3NT-? 2♦ Transfer to ♥ 3♣ 6-9, 3♣ with A/K
(1X)-?
4♣/♦ 54+ minors, 5♣/♦ X 9+ takeout 2♥ 10+ 3♠ OR 14+ bal 3♦/♠ 6+♦/♠ INV
4♥/♠ 55+ minors, splinter ♥/♠ 1Y 8-17 4+Y, possibly with a longer minor 2♠ 4-10 3♠ 3♥ Ask ♥ stopper
1NT 15-17 bal (System ON) 2NT 11+ 4♠
16.1.4. Minor Transfers 2W 9-17 5+W 3♣ 9-11 4♠ (1♥)-2♦-?
3NT Non-forcing 3♦/♥ 6+♦/♥ INV 2♥ Transfer to ♠
GHESTEM 3♠ 4-10 4♠ 2♠ Transfer to ♣
Opener simply accept the transfer, after which opener
Weak Jump Overcall 2NT 9-14 bal
bids the cheapest bid as RKC in minor, or 4NT as
invite, or cue-bid to show slam interest. (1♦)-1♥-? 3♣ 10+ 3+♦ OR 15+ bal
17.1.1. Suit Overcall 1♠ 4+♠ F1 3♦ 6-9, 3♦ with A/K
2NT-3NT-4♣-? 1NT 9-13 balanced with stopper 3♥ Ask ♥ stopper
RKC in ♣ 2♣ 5+♣ F1 3♠ 6+♠ INV
4♦ 17.1.1.1. Rules for Responding to Overcall
4♥/♠ 6+♣, cue-bid in ♥/♠ 2♦ 10+ 3♥ OR 14+ bal
4NT 5♣-332, SI 1 Up to Cue they are F1 2♥ 4-10 3♥ (1♠)-2♣-?
5♣ 6+♣, cue-bid in ♦ 2 Starting from Cue, all bids are competitive or 2♠ 6+♠ INV 2♦/♥ 5+♦/♥ F1
strong 2NT 11+ 4+♥ 2♠ 10+ 3+♣ OR 15+ bal
2NT-4♣-4♦-? 3 If the overcall is exclusive (i.e., skip one or two 3♣ 6+♣ INV 2NT 9-14 bal
4♥ RKC in ♦ suits), responder transfers from cue onwards. 3♦ 9-11 4♥ 3♣ 6-9, 3♣ with A/K
4♠ 6+♦, cue-bid in ♠ 4 NT bids are natural 3♥ 4-10 4♥ 3♦/♥ 6+♦/♥ INV
4NT 5♦-332, SI 5 Jump Shifts show a 6-card suit and are 3♠ Ask ♠ stopper
5♣ 6+♦, cue-bid in ♣ invitational (1♦)-1♠-?
6 Jump to 2NT over 1♥/♠ overcall is conventional 1NT 9-13 balanced with stopper (1♠)-2♦-?
and shows at least 4-card fit and points 2♣ 5+♣ F1 2♥ 5+♥ F1
16.1.5. Texas Transfer 7 Jump cue-bid asks stopper over minor overcall or 2♦ Transfer to ♥ 2♠ Transfer to ♣
2♥ overcall, and is limit raise over major overcall. 2♥ 10+ 3♠ OR 14+ bal 2NT 9-14 bal
2NT-4♦/♥-4♥/♠-? 2♠ 4-10 3♠ 3♣ 10+ 3+♦ OR 15+ bal
4NT RKC in ♥/♠ 2NT 11+ 4♠ 3♦ 6-9, 3♦ with A/K
New Suit Exclusive RKC 3♣/♥ 6+♣/♥ INV 3♥ 4-10 4♥
3♦ 9-11 4♠ 3♠ Ask ♠ stopper
3♠ 4-10 4♠
Modified Major Diamond P. 13 Modified Major Diamond P. 14
(1♠)-2♥-? 17.1.1.4. If Responder bids 17.1.2. Takeout Double (1♠)-X-?
2♠ Transfer to ♣ 1NT 7-10 constructive
2NT 9-14 bal 17.1.1.4.1. Responder Raises The takeout double guarantees at least 4-3 in the 2♣/♦/♥ 0-7 4+♣/♦/♥
3♣ Transfer to ♦ majors over opener’s minor while over opener’s major 2♠ 8+ 5+♣
3♦ 10+ 3+♥ OR 15+ bal shows at least 3-card in the other major. 2NT 11-12 bal
1 Double is general takeout
3♥ 4-10 4♥ 3♣ 8+ 5+♦
2 Rubensohl applies
3♠ Ask ♠ stopper 2.1 2-level suit is natural and non-forcing 17.1.2.1. Rules for Responding to Takeout Double 3♦ 8+ 5+♥
3♥ FG bal
2.2 2NT onwards are transfers and invitational
17.1.1.2. Rules for Overcaller or better. 1 Bidding NT is natural. 3♠ 5♣-4♥ FG (Smolen)
2.3 Transfer cue-bid shows limit raise or better 2 Bidding a suit cheaply is natural and weak. 3NT 5♦-4♥ FG, not passable (Smolen)
17.1.1.2.1. Over a Natural F1 response 3 From cue-bid onwards is transfer to next suit.
17.1.1.4.2. Responder Bids NT
3.1 After Transfer to minor, change of suit is 17.1.2.1.1. Over a transfer response
invitational
1 Natural rebids, and rebid suit is the weakest bid.
3.2 Transfer cue is FG bal 1 Completing transfer shows a normal hand.
2 NT bids shows a stopper and normal hand. 1 Double is Penalty
3 Cue shows a maximum hand and fit for 2 Cue is general takeout. 2 Cue implies a non-minimum hand and good
advancer’s suit. (1♣)-X-? support for partner’s suit.
3 Rubensohl applies
4 Raise shows a normal hand and fit for advancer’s 1♦/♥/♠ 0-10 4+♦/♥/♠ 3 Jump shows a good hand and support for
3.1 2-level suit is natural and non-forcing
suit. 1NT 7-10 constructive partner’s suit, and SPL in suit bid.
3.2 2NT onwards are transfers and invitational
5 Jump Cue shows a non-minimum hand and is 2♣ 8+ 5+♦
or better.
splinter raise, with at least Hxx or xxxx. 3.3 Transfer cue-bid shows limit raise or better 2♦ 8+ 5+♥ 17.1.2.2. If Responder bids
6 New suit is natural and shows a non-minimum 2♥ 8+ 5+♠
hand. If 3♣/♦ after 1♥/♠ overcall then is canapé, 2♠ FG bal
17.1.1.4.3. Responder Bids New Suit 2NT 11-12 bal 17.1.2.2.1. Responder Raises
otherwise is natural.
3♣ 5♦-4♥ FG
1 Double shows 5-card+ in 4th suit without fit for 3♦ 5♦-4♠ FG 1 Double is general takeout (Responsive Double)
17.1.1.2.2. Over a transfer response overcaller’s suit 2 Rubensohl applies
3♥ 5♠-4♥ FG (Smolen)
2 Rubensohl applies 2.1 2-level suit is natural and non-forcing
3♠ 5♥-4♠ FG (Smolen)
1 Completing the transfer shows a normal hand 3 Raise of overcaller’s suit 2.2 2NT onwards are transfers and invitational
with a minimum fit. 3.1 Lowest cue shows 3-card limit raise or better or better.
2 Rebid suit implies no fit and is natural. (1♦)-X-?
3.2 Second lowest cue shows 4-card limit raise 2.3 Transfer cue-bid is FG Bal
3 New suit is natural and may have support 1♥/♠ 0-10 4+♥/♠
or better
4 Jump to a new suit shows a non-minimum hand 1NT 7-10 constructive
3.3 Next cue shows 4-card mixed raise
2♣ 0-7 4+♣ 17.1.2.2.2. Responder Bids NT
and is splinter raise, with at least Hxx or xxxx. 3.4 If there is just 2 cue-bids available, then
5 2NT shows a maximum balanced hand without lower cue shows limit raise and higher cue 2♦ 8+ 5+♥
great fit. 2♥ 8+ 5+♠ 1 Double is Penalty
shows mixed raise
6 Cue shows a maximum hand with fit. 2♠ 8+ 5+♣ 2 Cue is general takeout.
7 Jump Cue shows a maximum hand and is splinter 2NT 11-12 bal 3 Rubensohl applies
17.1.1.4.4. Responder Doubles 3.1 2-level suit is natural and non-forcing
raise, with at least Hxxx. 3♣ FG bal
3♦ 5♦-4♥/♠ FG 3.2 2NT onwards are transfers and invitational
1 Redouble shows a major honor (AKQ) in or better.
17.1.1.2.3. Over a Jump Supportive 2NT overcaller’s suit
3♥ 5♠-4♥ FG (Smolen)
3.3 Transfer cue-bid is FG Bal
3♠ 5♥-4♠ FG (Smolen)
2 Any suit below 2NT is weak and non-forcing.
3♣ Minimum, any SGL 3 Cue-bid is limit raise or better 17.1.2.2.3. Responder Bids New Suit
(3♦ relays lo-mid-hi SGL) 4 Rubensohl applies (1♥)-X-?
3♦ Non-minimum 4.1 Transfer cue-bid shows 4-card limit raise. 1♠ 0-10 4+♠
1NT 7-10 constructive 1 Double shows 4-card+ and is penalty-oriented
3M Minimum, no SGL
2♣/♦ 0-7 4+♣/♦ 2 Rubensohl applies
3NT Extras 17.1.1.4.5. Responder Cue-bids 2♥ 8+ 5+♠ 3 Cue-bid is takeout in remaining suits
Cue Strong, cue-bid
2♠ 8+ 5+♣ 3.1 If there is just 2 cue-bids available, then
1 Pass shows a major honor (AKQ) in overcaller’s 2NT 11-12 bal lower cue is limited and higher cue is FG
17.1.1.3. Rules for Overcaller suit and Redouble denies. (Pass-Double 3.2 Transfer cue-bid is FG Bal
3♣ 8+ 5+♦
Inversion) 3♦ FG bal
1 After completing TRANSFER, change of suit
shows a good hand.
2 Any suit below 2NT is weak and non-forcing.
3♥ 5♣-4♠ FG (Smolen) 17.1.2.2.4. Responder Redoubles
3 Rubensohl applies
2 Bidding NT shows a good hand with stopper. 3♠ 5♦-4♠ FG (Smolen)
3.1 All Transfers are lead-directing with support
3 Raise shows an invitational hand. 1 Pass suggests to play there
4 Cue asks for stopper, but maybe advance 2 Other bids are the same as if no redouble
cue-bid.
5 If overcaller does not complete the TRANSFER,
repeating suit shows a weak hand and other bids
are natural and implies a good hand.
Modified Major Diamond P. 15 Modified Major Diamond P. 16
17.1.3. Balancing 17.1.4. Sandwich Position 17.1.5. Ghestem 17.2. 1NT / 2NT Openings / Rebid
(1X)-(P)-? (1X)-(1Y)-? Ghestem is a two-suited overcall made over a
X 9+ takeout (Same Development as Direct X) X 9+, takeout NATURAL opening of one of a suit. The style in which 17.2.1. DONT
1Y 8-15 4+Y, possibly with a longer minor 1Z 9-17 4+Z we bid this depends on the position, vulnerability, and
1NT 12-15 bal (System OFF) 1NT 44+ in remaining suits, except whether partner has passed or not! (1NT)-?
2W 9-15 5+W (1m)-1♠-1NT = 5♥-4om Opposite passed partner and favorable the bid is X Any 1-suiter (2X = P/C, 2NT = Ask suit)
2NT 19-21 (4-way Transfer) 2X 55+ in remaining suits generally defensive/obstructive, while unfavorable it is 2X 44+ X+Another (Cheapest = P/C)
3Y 7+Y PRE 2Y 9-17 5+Y generally constructive with good suits and 5 losers or 2NT Both minors
3NT Non-forcing 2NT 64+ in remaining suits less. 3X PRE
Cue Michaels, INV+
Intermediate Jump Overcall (1X)-(1Y)-1Z-? (1♣)-? (2NT)-?
Weak Jump Overcall if Double Jump 1NT 9-13 bal 2♦ 5+♥-5+♠ X Any 1-suiter (3X = P/C)
2X 3Z GI+ 2NT 3X 44+ X+Another (Cheapest = P/C)
5+♥-5+♦
(1X)-(P)-1Y-? 2Y 4+Z GI+ 3♣ 5+♠-5+♦
1NT 9-13 bal 2W 5+W NF 17.3. 2-level Openings
2X 4+X, opening strength 2NT+ Rubensohl (1♦)-?
2W 5+W NF 2♦ 5+♠-5+♣ (2X)-?
2NT+ Rubensohl (1X)-(1Y)-2Z-? 2NT X Takeout (Rubensohl ON)
5+♥-5+♣
2X 3+Z GI+ 2NT 15-18 bal (4-way transfer)
3♣ 5+♠-5+♥
(1X)-(P)-1Y-(X)-? 2W 5+W NF 3X 2♠ = Nat if opponents showing Majors
XX 4+X, opening strength F1 2NT+ Rubensohl
(1♥)-? Western Cue-bid (Ask stopper) at 3-level
Other Same as if opener has passed
2♥ 5+♠-5+♣ Michaels otherwise
(1X)-(1NT)-? JS Intermediate Jump Overcall
(1X)-(P)-1Y-(1NT)-? X 9+, takeout 2NT 5+♣-5+♦
3♣ 5+♠-5+♦ 4♣/♦ 55+ ♣/♦ + Highest unbid Major FG
X 4+X, opening strength, penalty-oriented 2X 55+, including any unbid Majors
4X Michaels if minors
2W Natural NF 2Y 9-17 5+Y
(1♠)-? Strong takeout if Majors
2X Limit Raise or Better 2NT 55+ in lowest unbid suits
2♠ 5+♥-5+♣ 4NT Unusual NT
2NT+ Rubensohl
(1X)-(2X)-? 2NT 5+♣-5+♦
(1X)-(P)-1Y-(2X)-? X 9+, takeout with tolerance for 3 unbid suits 3♣ 5+♥-5+♦ 17.4. Junkyard Defense
X 4+X, opening strength, penalty-oriented 2Y 9-17 5+Y
2W Natural NF 2NT 9+, takeout in 2 unbid suits, except 17.1.5.1.1. Rules When opponent’s 1-/2-level opening bids does NOT
2NT+ Rubensohl (1♠)-(2♠)-2NT = 5♥-4+m showing 5-card in suit bid and NOT showing specific
1 Returning to trump is always the weakest bid 1-suiter, which includes:
(1X)-(P)-1Y-(2W)-?
X 4+X, opening strength 2 Jump in a suit shown by partner are always
preemptive X Strength-showing (15+)
2Z 5+Z NF Pass Takeout through 4♦
2NT+ Rubensohl 3 3NT is always natural
4 To show GI+ hands, advancer can: then X
4.1 Bid the lower unbid suit to show a fit in lower Suit Nat, good suit
(1X)-(P)-1NT-? 2NT 15-18 bal (System ON)
2Y 5+Y sign-off suit
4.2 Bid the higher unbid suit to show a fit in Jump Intermediate Jump Overcall
2X F1, generally bal 3NT To play
2NT INV higher suit
3Y 6Y INV
17.5. Weak-both-minors-2NT
(1X)-(P)-1NT-(X)?
P Forces XX, to play or DONT (2NT)-?
XX Relay 2♣, sign-off in any suit X 13+ co-operative penalty in at least one
2Y 5+Y INV minor suit
2NT+ Rubensohl 3♣ 10-15 both Majors
3♦ 16+ both Majors
(1X)-(P)-1NT-(2X)? 3M 10-15 6+M
X Takeout Pass General takeout
2Y 5+Y sign-off then X
2NT+ Rubensohl
Modified Major Diamond P. 17 Modified Major Diamond P. 18

17.6. 3-/4-level Openings 18. Other Conventions 18.1.3. Interfere in transfer/asking 18.1.5. Unusual Against Unusual
sequences
(3X/4X)-? 18.1.5.1. 2 known suits
X 18.1.1. Rubensohl
Takeout through 4♦ 18.1.3.1. In Transfer Sequence
Optional for 4M X Penalty in at least 1 suit
4NT Unusual NT 18.1.1.1. General Guidelines 2NT INV
Pass No 3-card support (A further XX = to play)
Cue Micheals 3NT NF
XX 5+ in the called suit, suggest to play
1 Double is Stayman Raise NF
Accept 3-card+
17.7. Astro against Gambling 3NT
2 Two of a suit is natural and competitive, but not 4th suit NF
forcing Lower Limited raise or better
3 The responses of 2NT/3♣/3♦/3♥ are all transfers 18.1.3.2. After Splinter bid Cue
(3NT)-? 3.1 If the suit cannot be bided at 2-level, then Upper Fourth suit, INV+
X Penalty transfer is weak or strong Pass Nothing special Cue
4♣ 55+ ♥ + a minor 3.2 If the suit can be bided at 2-level, then Allow partner XX to show void
55+ ♠ + another XX Ace
4♦ transfer is invitational or better 18.1.5.2. 1 known suit
3.3 Transfer cue-bid assumes many meanings, Trump Signoff

17.8. Namyats 4m generally stayman or a stopper in their suit.

Basically partner completes the transfer 18.1.3.3. After Asking Bid
X Penalty in at least 1 suit
2NT INV
without a stopper while making a descriptive 3NT NF
(4m)-? bid with a stopper X / XX Penalty
X 3-suiter takeout Raise NF
3.4 If responder has shown a hand of at least Pass 1st step Cue Limited raise or better
4M 55+ oM + a minor (Micheals) invitational strength, the simple completion Other 2nd step, or above
4NT 55+ Both minors (Unusual NT) New suit NF at 2-level
of transfer tells partner to pass in case he FG at 3-level
Pass Optional has an invitational hand. Therefore opener 18.1.3.4. After RKC
then X with maximum or good fit should not just
complete the transfer but look for another
18.1.6. Forcing Passes
D1P0 Below 5 of trump
17.9. Strong 1♣/1♦/2♣/2♦ descriptive bid.
When we hold majority of Strength
4 The responses of 3♠ is natural 5-card FG, without X / XX 1st step (14)
(1♣/1♦/2♣/2♦)-? a stopper Pass 2nd step (03)
5 3NT is natural, to play with a stopper Other 3rd step, or above 1. Game-forcing situation
X Any 13+ at 1-level 2. After Limit Raise or Better
Bidding suit Xed at 2-level 6 Exception: When opponents have shown ♠ suit,
DEPO Beyond 5 of trump 3. When we made a penalty pass or double before
♣ ♦/♥+♠ then:
♦ ♥/♠+♣ 6.1 3♦ = Weak / FG with ♥
18.1.6.1. Garozzo 2/3 Double
♥ ♠/♣+♦ 6.2 3♥ = INV with ♥ X / XX Even number of Key-Cards / Aces
6.3 3♠ = FG bal with 4♥ Pass Odd number of Key-Cards / Aces
♠ ♣/♦+♥ The Garozzo 2/3 Doubles occurs in a forcing pass
NT Non-touching 2-suiter (♣+♥/♦+♠)
18.1.1.2. Special Uses of Rubensohl 18.1.4. Competitive Double situation thru 3♠:

Also after opponent’s strong and artificial Direct DBL shows 2 or 3 cards in the suit doubled
1♣/1♦/2♣/2♦ and negative / waiting response where (1X)-X-(2X)-? Want to compete further but no obvious action and interest in possible penalties.
no suit(s) / shape is shown. X Takeout Direct pass shows either 4-cards+ in opponent's
Bid As if partner opened 1NT and they overcall Situations that must fulfill: suit (Penalty pass) or maximum unbalanced
a) Partner must have acted
17.10. Against Transfer Bids 18.1.2. Asking Bids b) Our side has not established a fit
hand with singleton in opponent's suit.
Cue-bids show void in the suit bid.
c) Our side has not bid NT naturally Direct bids are descriptive, with non-jump bids
(TRF)-? d) The doubled suit has not been passed at the last
X Lead-directing 18.1.2.1. Trump Asking Bid turn
often just having minimum values, normally short
in opponent’s suit.
X then X Takeout through 4♦ e) A forcing pass auction does not exist
Pass Takeout through 3♠ TAB-?
Step 1 Minimum bad suit Subsequent Development:
then X Applicable Situations:
Cue-bid Michaels Step 2 Minimum good suit OR Maximum bad suit a) All doubles at the 1-level provided that forcing
Step 3 Maximum good suit After the direct double, partner can pass with
pass situation does not exists length too, or can bid if short.
b) Double of a raised enemy suit through 3♠, After the direct pass, partner’s double is optional,
18.1.2.2. Control Asking Bid provided the enemy action was direct (doubles of and partner will figure out what to do - if in doubt
enemy balancing actions are for penalty) the player with shortness does not double but
CAB-? c) The double of an invitational cue-bid, jump bids instead.
Step 1 No Control cue-bid, or any kind of fit-showing bid at the 2- or
Step 2 3rd round control (Skip this step at 4-level+) 3-level
Step 3 2nd round control
Step 4 1st round control
Modified Major Diamond P. 19 Modified Major Diamond P. 20
18.1.6.2. Pass-Double Inversion
19. Defensive Carding 19.5. Suit Preference Signals 19.8. Special Third Hand Play
Pass-Double Inversion occurs in a forcing pass
The following suit-preference situations take priority 1. Third hand play of the higher of equals at notrump
situation at 4-level+: 19.1. Lead Style against Suit over any other signals: requests partner to unblock if necessary. Thus,
1. Against any contract, if the opening leader leads Normal plays warn partner not to unblock.
Pass is either weak or strong: 1. Top of Sequence an honor in suit originated by partner in which
Pass then pull is weak, no interest in further
compete
2. Against a 5-level or higher suit contract, Ace
requests attitude
partner showed 5+ cards. (Middle = Neutral).
2. Against a suit, if the opening leader leads
19.9. Trump Echo
Pass then bids are descriptive, shows slam 3. 0/2 Honor Lead for T/9 dummy’s singleton and is able to or expected to
interest and void in opponent’s suit 4. Natural Count Lead in suit with Honor(s) A trump echo is used to show the following things, in
retain the lead at trick two.
Direct Double is penalty-oriented, at least Hx or 5. Reverse Count Lead in suit without Honor the order of priority:
3. When leading or following in a suit that partner is
xxx in opponent’s suit 6. Attitude Lead in Other Situations 1. Welcome of First Lead Suit;
expected to ruff.
Direct pull shows mild slam interest 2. Ability to ruff something;
4. Against a suit, when partner’s opening lead is an
Direct bids are descriptive, shows slam interest 3. Odd Number of Trumps
and singleton in opponent’s suit 19.2. Lead Style against NT obvious singleton and you are not trying to win
the trick.
5. When removing declarer’s last stopper at ♣♦♥♠
18.1.7. Lead-Directing Pass 1. Top of Sequence notrump.
2. Ace and Queen Lead ask for Unblock or Count 6. When playing from insignificant cards in a suit in
When opponent cue-bid in suit where length is shown 3. King Lead asks for Attitude which declarer has shown out (or will show out on
by our side; 4. 0/2 Honor Lead for T/9 the current trick). Note that strategic plays
Pass is lead-directing 5. Natural Count Lead in suit with Honor(s) (unblocking, playing a known card, etc.) should
Double shows no interest in leading the suit 6. Reverse Count Lead in suit without Honor not be interpreted as suit preference.
7. Attitude Lead in Other Situations 7. When following suit or discarding (but not when
18.1.8. Positive Slam Double leading) from insignificant cards after count has
19.3. General Signaling Method been given.
In competitive auction, if the opponents bid a slam and
we maybe sacrifice, then: 1. Reverse Attitude (Lo = Encourage) 19.6. The Wakeup Signal
2. Reverse Count (Lo = Even)
Direct Seat: Pass = 0/1 winners 3. Natural Remaining Count (Hi = Even) At a suit contract, a non-systemic or unusual lead or
X = 2 winners 4. Natural Suit Preference (Hi = Higher Suit) play indicates the ability to ruff something. This is not a
Balancing Seat: Pass = 2 winners 5. When in middle of game and partner leads an suit preference signal in that partner must determine
X = 1 winners honor, ALWAYS welcome unless you urge a shift. which suit might be ruffed. Examples would be:
Pd’s escape = 0 winners 1. Under-leading an ace on the opening lead.
Bid = 0 winners
19.4. Count Signals (When under-leading an ace it is best to lead a
false spot card so that partner is less likely to
18.1.9. Lead-directing Double The general strategy is to show count, both in misplay thinking declarer has the ace.)
following suit and discarding, regardless of who led 2. A non-systemic lead such as the queen from K-Q
a) Double of an artificial response to any natural the suit. When discarding, tend to discard from suits or the jack from K-J-T.
opening bid is a takeout double of the suit opened, you do not wish led and give count in doing so. 3. A blatant, wasteful or illogical signal such as
except specified otherwise. dropping the king from K-J-x-x when you are
marked for length in the suit.
b) Double of a splinter bid suggest partner leading
the lowest unbid suit
19.4.1. Modifications and exceptions:
c) Double of Notrump and Slam
1. When the ace of an unbid suit is led at a suit 19.7. Second Play in the Same Suit
The double of any NT bid is for penalty and
requests, in priority, the lead of: contract and dummy has exactly three cards
without the queen, signal attitude. 1. After Leading from Sequence
i) Leader's suit if both leader and doubler have
2. Ace subsequent to the opening lead requests After leading an honor, continuing with highest
shown suits
attitude. card warns partner not to unblock or overtake.
ii) Dummy's first shown suit
3. At notrump, if dummy wins partner’s opening lead Continuing with the lowest card of a sequence
iii) Highest unbid suit
with singleton ace, king or queen, signal attitude. invites partner to do so.
2. Second Round Count
If the first play in a suit did not indicate count
(generally because led or played an honor), count
should be given on the second round when
leading, following or discounting (Natural
Remaining Count).