7. fibonacci relays

This structure aims at exploring partner’s distribution and continuing to investigate slam potential with specific asking bids.

In Fredin-Lindqvist’s system FRs are used in 1 § sequences, but this has unfortunate consequences in partscore situations. In 1 ¨ and 1 M situations, however, FRs are more

useful and give space to other R bids.

1 M promise a 5-card suit, whereas 1 ¨ only promise 4. Therefore the (GF) FR bid is 1 N on 1 ¨ but over 1 M the relay is 2 §.

7.1 Principles

Hand-types are divided into groups:

· Balanced (here always 5332)

· 4-card ¨ hand (4441 or 4 ¨ + 5 §)

· One-suiters

· Two-suiters (including 5422)

· Three-suiters

Responses are geared so that the same hand-types should be shown with the same bids, even with different suits. Thus 2 ¨ + 2 N, 2 © + 2 N and direct 2 N shows two-suiters, the first with the lower (lo) side-suit, the second the “middle” (mi) side-suit and the third the “higher” (hi) side-suit..

When further specifying distribution, responder normally shows what he has one of: if 5332 he shows his doubleton, if 6322 he shows his 3-card suit. In 2-suiter schemes R shows his shortness when subsequently stepping his distribution.

7.2 Direct responses

- 2 § 4-card ¨ suit (1 ¨ - 1 N only)

- 2 ¨ 5332 or 5440 or 4+cards in the lowest side-suit

- 2 © 4+cards in the “middle” side suit

- 2 ª one-suiter (6+ suit)

- 2 N à 4+card in the highest side-suit

7.2.1 4-card ¨ scheme

Since O must be sbal/unbal, he has either 4441 or a canapé with a 5-card § suit.

1 ¨ - 1 N

2 §

- 2 ¨ relay

- 2 © longer § suit

- 2 ª (4441)

- 2 N (4144)

- 3 § (1444)

1 ¨ - 1 N

2 § - 2 ¨

- 2 ©

- 2 ª

- 2 N (2245)

- 3 § (3145)

- 3 ¨ (1345)

- 3 © (4045)

- 3 ª (0445)

Continuation is specified in 7.3.

7.2.2 2-suiter scheme

All hands with at least 5-4 are counted as 2-suiters (also 5422) but with 2 exceptions:

- 5440 is treated in a special way

- 4-5 in the minors (i.e. the only canapé pattern possible) à see “4-card ¨ scheme)

From here on the lowest (side-suit, singleton, etc) is called “lo”

the middle is called “mi”

the highest is called “hi”

O bids 2 ¨ followed by 2 N or higher when his side-suit is lo (always §)

O bids 2 © followed by 2 N or higher when his side-suit is mi (¨ except after 1 ¨ opener = ©)

O bids 2 N or higher when his side-suit is hi (ª except after 1 ª opener = ©)

Except for the “introductory” bid, continuations are identical:

2 N shortness in lo

- 3 § relay, continuation identical to direct rebids

3 § (5422) or (6511)/(7411)

3 ¨ short mi in (5431)

3 © short mi and (5521)

3 ª short mi and (5530)

3 N short mi and (6421)

4 § short mi and (6430)

4 ¨ short mi and (6520)

4 © short mi and (7420)

3 §

- 3 ¨

- 3 © (5422), 11-12

- 3 ª (5422), 13-14

- 3 N (5422), 15-16

- 4 § (6511)

- 4 ¨ (7411)

Continuations and special sequences are explained in 6.3.

7.2.3 1-suiter scheme

A 1-suiter contains a suit of at least 6 cards without a side-suit of 4+cards.

O rebids 2 ª, and R relays with 2 N:

- 2 §

2 ª

- 2 N

- 3 § 7-card suit, but no void

- 3 ¨ relay

- 3 © (7222)

- 3 ª (7321) short lo

- 3 N (7321) short mi

- 4 § (7321) short hi

- 3 ¨ (6322)

- 3 ©

- 3 ª 3-card lo

- 3 N 3-card mi

- 4 § 3-card hi

- 3 © (6331), short lo

- 3 ª (6331), short mi

- 3 N (6331), short hi

- 4 § (7330), short lo

- 4 ¨ (7330), short mi

- 4 © (7330), short hi

7.2.4 5332 or 5440

O bids 2 ¨ followed by 2 ª

- 2 ¨

2 ©

- 2 ª

- 2 N

- 3 § (5332)

- 3 ¨ (normal) distribution relay

- 3 © doubleton lo

- 3 ª doubleton mi

- 3 N doubleton hi

- 3 © hcp-ask

- 3 ª 11-12

- 3 N 13-14

- 4 § 15-16

- 3 ¨ (5440), void lo

- 3 © (5440), void mi

- 3 ª (5440), void hi

NB that over the 5332-showing bid R can choose to ask for hcps instead of exact distribution.

NB II: 1 ¨ cannot contain a 5332 pattern. Thus the scale is adjusted one step !!

7.2.5 Exceptions to scheme

7.2.5.1 Impossible distributions

When a distribution is impossible, which we define as 5-5 in the opening suit + a higher or 5332 when opening 1 ¨, then steps describing that distribution are skipped and the scale is contracted. As an example;

1 ¨ - 1 N – 2 N (ª/short §) – 3 §:

3 ¨ (4351)

3 © (4261)

3 ª (4360)

3 N (5260)

4 § (4270)

7.2.5.2 Switch to natural bidding

If, before O has shown exact distribution, R wishes to switch to natural bidding he can do so at any point simply by not relaying. An exceptions to this is the 3 © relay in the 5332-sequence. Game bids are to play when a) 3 N if there is no 8-card M fit (then 3 N is “next step”) or b) jump to cheapest game when O’s distribution is not yet known.

7.2.5.3 Opponents double the relay

Double of 1 N

Pass minimum (1 N bidder may re-enquire after 2 passes with a redouble)

XX 1 step

2 § 2 steps (etc)

Double of 2 §

RD 4+card § suit

pass weak/neutral

new natural, good suit or additional values

cue (3 §) 3-suiter (5440)

Interference over 2 §

D suggests penalty (» HTxx or better)

other natural

pass weak/natural

Subsequent D or interference:

If Opps double a relay bid we XX with 4+suit if possible. Step responses are unchanged but show maximum. After two passes R can XX to continue the relaying, O’s responses now show minimum.

If Opps overcall we switch to natural bidding, except if we have commenced SLABs/DCBs (see 7.3).

In a SLAB sequence we use PODI (RKCB), pass is min if O has not yet shown his strength. If Opps double a DCB we use pass for 1 step, XX for 2 steps, etc.

7.3 SLABs and DCBs

7.3.1 Slam-Asking Bids (SLAB)

When O’s distribution is known, R can choose to bid game via the end signal 4 ¨ (or 3 N) in any denomination or set a trump suit and at the same time start enquiries:

Trumps is set in steps simultaneously asking for min/max and number of key-cards. In order to save space in the more frequent sequences, the first step agrees O’s longest suit, the second step agrees the second longest suit. If two suits (or 3 if 4441) are of equal length (or in the rare case that the exact distribution is not fully known) the first step sets the lower of the suits.

1 step minimum (11-13); R can relay again for an RKCB response

2 steps maximum, 0/3 (relay, except trump suit, asks for trump queen)

3 steps maximum, 1/4 (relay, except trump suit, asks for trump queen)

4 steps maximum, 2/5 wo trump queen (new bid except trump suit = DCB)

5 steps maximum, 2/5 with trump queen - “ -

If the SLAB is 4 © with ©/m as trumps or in 4 ª and higher with any suit as trumps, there is no min/max, but O immediately shows number of key-cards.

If O has shown min/max in 5332/5422 sequences on the 3-level, there is no strength distinction.

7.3.1.1 Continuation after the SLAB minimum response (1 step)

Lowest trump bid to play (if game)

3 N to play, if the trump suit is a m (otherwise to be seen as “next step”

4 N to play (m trump)

Nearest other bid renewed RKCB

other bids cuebids (4 N may subsequently be used as RKCB)

7.3.1.2 Continuation after SLAB responses indicating # of key-cards

Lowest trump bid to play (if game)

3 N to play (if the trump suit is a minor)

4 N (m trump) to play

nearest bid

(except for above) trump queen ask (=first DCB)

other bids DCBs

For DCB technique, see below in 7.3.3

7.3.2 End signal and jumps to game

A bid of 4 ¨ is an “End signal”. O bids 4 © and R signs off in 4 ª, 4 N or 5 m.

If the partnership is already in 4 ¨/©, a simple bid in a suit that has been shown as containing at least 4 cards is natural and for play. Other bids are SLABs with usual significance.

A direct jump to game, higher than the highest SLAB, is a free (limited) ST asking in general terms about good trumps and some extras.

When R has the opportunity to make a SO with 4 ¨ + 4 N, then a direct 4 N is a natural ST if m = trumps.

7.3.3 Denial cue-bids (Variable cue-bids) – “DCBs”

After O has responded to the SLAB, then R may sign-off in the agreed suit or ask further with a new relay. Then O will show the trump-queen, specific Kings, specific queens and, if there’s room, specific jacks. Since the aces are shown (and the trump King) the remaining cards are put into a string in a certain order:

· Trump Q

· Longest/lowest K

· Next K

· Shortest/highest K

· Longest/lowest Q

· Next Q

· Shortest/highest Q

· Longest/lowest J etc.

· A singleton K goes with the Queen and a singleton Q goes with the Jacks.

By bidding 1 step to the DCB OP denies the card in turn in the DCB-string. By bidding 2 steps O shows the card in turn, but denies the next one.

To make these DCB-sequences more efficient R may also skip steps. By skipping one or more step R tells O to consider the next feature on the scale.

8. notrump complex

Chapter 8 deals with the following situation:

· 1 N opener (14-16)

· 1 § - 1 ¨ - 1 N (17-19)

· 1 re – 1 M – 1 N (11-16)

· 2 N opener (20-21)

· 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 ¨ - 2 M – 2 N (22-23)

· 2 ¨ - 2 M – 2 N (24-25)

· 1 § - 3 N (14-16)

· 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 § - 2 ¨ - 3 N (26-27)

8.1 1 N

· opener in 1st – 2nd seat (unpassed hand)

· overcall in 2^nd seat over 1 § or 1 ¨ (unpassed hand)

1 N shows 14-16 hcp, normally without a 5-card M. Some “difficult” hands (4441 with a singleton honour, 5431 with a bad 5-card § suit) may be included, and notrump-friendly sbal hands; 5422 and 6322 with a long m are regarded as “obvious”. The system can not reveal these deviations, however.

8.1.1 responses

Technically, responses are based on a “Stayman+transfers” logic. A basic principle is to rather show R hands instead of querying O (especially with unbalanced R hands with game-going hands or stronger). The description of each hand-type is structured, and it is vital to make the right introductory bid.

The 2 ¨ and 2 © transfers are used with “traditional” 5-card M hands, but also often with a 4-card M and a longer minor (or a 3-suiter). The latter handtypes are mainly explored by means of a “re-transfer”, ie after the first transfer R makes the bid immediately below his minor suit (2 N for §, 3 § for ¨). Both transfers and re-transfers promise the suits transferred into.

O is allowed (even encouraged) to super-accept the transfer, most often when holding 4-card support for R’s M.

After 2 ¨ - 2 ©, R uses 2 ª to show a 5-card © suit. This possibility does not exist after 2 © - 2 ª (2 N and 3 § being “re-transfers” to § and ¨ respectively as explained above). Therefore 5-card ª hands need special treatment.

Stayman 2 § is followed by mostly natural / descriptive bids, but 3 m rebids are conventional, showing a 5-card ª suit in an unbalanced hand. Thus 2 © (transfer) and 2 § complement each other in order to solve the above-mentioned problem with the exploration of 5-card ª suit hands.

Note the following, however:

With an invitational hand wo a 4-card Major, R must improvise: pass, bid 3 N or chance 2 §, which may risk a lead-directing double or intervention. He can, however, bid 2 § systemically without risking to end up in 4 ª should partner hold a maximum hand with 4-4 in the Majors…

1 N

- 2 § Stayman; used with a GT hand with or wo a Major, both MM or certain unbalanced 5-card GF (+) ª hands, i.e:

· 5 ª with “uncertainty” (hand playable in other contracts than 3 N even when there is no 8-card ª fit, normally a side singleton in 5431)

- 2 ¨ promises at least 4 hearts; sign-off, GT+ with 5 ©, 4 © + longer minor, 3-suiter, ST with long hearts

- 2 © promises at least 4 spades; but NB that some hands are bid via 2 §; 2 © contains:

· 4-card ª and a longer minor (SO or GT+)

· 5-card ª if only interested in a 5-3 4 ª game or 3 N

· 5-5 in ª+minor, ST

· 3-suiters

· ST with long spade suit

- 2 ª promises at least 5 clubs, normally at least 6

- 2 N promises at least 5 diamonds, normally at least 6

- 3 § GF, both minors, short ©

- 3 ¨ GF, both minors, short ª

- 3 © GT, 5-5 MM

- 3 ª ST, balanced hand (does not promise spades)

- 3 N to play

- 4 m Texas

- 4 M to play

- 4 N quantitative

8.1.1.1 1 N – 2 §

2 § is used with most hands with both Majors or with a INV hand with one or no 4-card Major. With only one 4-card M and GF cards R does not go this way (he transfers).

Finally, R bids 2 § with certain 5-card spade suit hands (see above in table).

1 N – 2 §

2 © - 2 N NB that R does not promise 4 spades. O cannot, therefore, bid any number of spades for fear of getting too high. This is resolved with O’s direct rebids 2 N and 3 §, showing 4-4 in the Majors and minimum and maximum respectively.

1 N – 2 §

2 ¨ No 4-card Major

- 2 © INV, 4-5 in MM

- 2 ª INV, 5-card spade suit (with or wo 4-card hearts)

- 2 N INV, with or wo a 4-card Major (alertable)

- 3 § 5 spades and 4(+) clubs, GF, normally unbalanced

- 3 ¨ 5 spades and 4(+) diamonds, GF, normally unbalanced

- 3 © 5 spades and 4 hearts (allows O to declare) (in American terminology:

- 3 ª 5 hearts and 4 spades (- “ -) “SMOLEN”)

R can use 3 © and 3 ª (see below) with GF or stronger hands with 5-5 MM unless he has a void (see 4 §/¨ below!)

- 3 N SO

- 4 §/¨ void, 5-5 MM, ST

- 4 ©/ª SO

1 N – 2 §

2 ¨

- 2 ©/ª O passes or bids naturally. 3 N shows 3-card support but is a suggestion to play

- 3 § (R is unbalanced if only GF, but may have 5422 if going for slam)

- 3 ¨ asks

- 3 © short © (NGF)

- 3 ª short ¨ (NGF)

- 3 N 5422, ST, but NF

- 4 § 5422, ST

- 3 ¨

- 3 © asks

- 3 ª short §

- 3 N short ©, NF

- 4 § short ©, stronger

- 4 ¨ 5422, ST

(memory rule: shortness is shown NGF, 4 § shows the same as 3 N but is forcing, rebid (in R’s) 4 m shows 5422 and strong cards)

1 N – 2 §

2 ¨ - 3 © R has 5 ª / 4 ©. But he can have strong (GF+) 5-5 and (ST) 6-4 hands as well.

- 3 ª accepts spades

- 3 N slam try; normally 5422

- 4 m shortness, slam try

- 3 N no support

- 4 m 6 ª and 4 © and ST, shortness in m (ª = trumps)

- 4 © 5-5 in the Majors, O normally passes here (just for game)

- 4 ª 5-5 MM, ST and F4N (O’s 4 N is negative, 5 X = RKCB resp agreeing ª)

1 N – 2 §

2 ¨ - 3 ª same applies as above

- 3 N no support

- 4 m 6 © and 4 ª and ST, shortness in m (©=trumps)

- 4 © 5-5 in Majors, strong but only F4ª

- 4 ª 5-5 in Majors and ST, but O may pass

5-5 MM rules after 1 N – 2 § - 2 ¨

- only to game: 3 © + by 4 © (O “denies” 3 ª and © will be trumps)

- a light slam try: 3 ª + 4 ©

- a good slam try: 3 ª + 4 ª (O may pass if disgusted)

- a forcing ST 3 © + 4 ª (F4N)

- 4 © support, minimum

- 4 m support, max, cue

- 4 © to play

1 N – 2 §

2 © 4 ©, not 4 ª.

- 2 ª GT, 5 spades

- 2 N GT, with or wo 4 spades (alertable)

- 3 §/¨ identical to 1 N – 2 § - 2 ¨ (5 ª + suit, unbalanced)

- 3 © GT, support

- 3 ª/4 m splinter, ST

- 3 N (NB) ST, no singleton (NB! R does not have just 4 spades and a GF hand !!)

- 4 © to play

- 4 N RKCB

1 N – 2 §

2 ª 4 ª, not 4 ©

NB: R has support for ª in every case except when bidding precisely 2 N ! Therefore the continuation is very simple:

- 2 N GT, natural

- 3 §/¨/© splinter

- 3 ª GT, support

- 3 N (NB) ST, no shortage

- 4 §/¨/© void, ST

- 4 N RKCB

1 N – 2 §

2 N 4-4 MM, minimum. The R hand with GT wo a Major passes now

- 3 ¨/© transfer. R follows up with a raise to game, shows shortage on the side or makes a ST without shortage with 3 N.

- jump void (© is supposed to be trumps)

1 N – 2 §

3 §

- 3 N GT hand wo a Major

- 3 ¨/© transfers like above, etc

8.1.1.2 1 N – 2 ¨

NB that R always has hearts (as opposed to old SKROT when 2 ¨ was only a relay). Therefore sequences become more natural, and, in contested auctions, O may compete more liberally.

R, in accordance with the law, is fully allowed to super-accept 2 ¨. Failure to do so denies a 4-card support hand unless the hand is very “boring”.

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © default rebid

2 ª good maximum hand with 3-card support; a minimum/distributional GT hand with 5 hearts would often pass a simple 2 © rebid

2 N maximum with 4 hearts without a (good) minor

3 m maximum with 4 hearts, good suit

3 © minimum (!) with 4 hearts

1 N – 2 ¨

2 ©

- 2 ª R bids 2 ª with most hands with 5 hearts and at least GT values. O shows his support and strength:

- 2 N doubleton support, minimum (a GT responder must pass)

- 3 § doubleton support, maximum

- 3 ¨ 3-card support, any strength

- 3 © 4-card support (minimum/boring due to non-acceptance in first round)

- 2 N/3 §

- pass/3 N with a GT hand (3 N with any hand wishing to play it)

- 3 ¨ 4 diamonds, short § (NGF)

- 3 © 4 clubs short ¨ (NGF)

- 3 ª 1-5 in Majors (4-3/3-4 minors)

- 4 §/¨ 5224/5242 (natural), slam try

- 4 © ST, 5-card © in 5332 (O declines with 4 N)

- 3 ¨/©

- 3 © GT

- 3 N no shortness, ST

- side suit shortness, ST

- 2 N re-transfer (see chapter on re-transfers), promising at least 4 §

- 3 § re-transfer, promising at least 4 ¨

- 3 ¨ ST without a void (O asks for singleton with 3 ©)

- 3 © GT, natural (6+ suit)

- jump void, ST

- 3 N NB 4-card © suit, for play (if O exceptionally has 4 hearts, he pulls)

1 N – 2 ¨

2 ª Since O has 3 hearts, there is a trump suit except when R continues with a re-transfer or 3 N. Another re-transfer, 3 ¨, is introduced to allow O to declare and to give R more bidding space.

- 2 N re-transfer

- 3 § re-transfer

- 3 ¨ re-transfer

- 3 © ST with a long © suit (3 ª asks for singleton)

- 3 ª short ª (3 N asks for minor if interested), 5-card ©; i.e. » 5431

- jump void (4 © with void ª; 4 ª if no tolerance for a pass)

- 3 N 4-card © suit, to play

- 3 ¨

- 3 ©

- 3 ª 4-card minor (3 N asks if O is interested) and 5422

- 3 N 5332

- 4 m minor and shortness in other minor (cf direct 2 N - 3 ª)

- 4 © to play

1 N – 2 ¨

2 N (+other 4-card super-acceptances)

Whenever possible, R re-transfers with 3 ¨ and continues as normal, i.e. 3 N wo shortness and bids a suit with shortness. If O’s bid is 3 ¨ or 3 © transfers are out (never transfers on 4-level) and he instead bids 3 N or a short side-suit.

8.1.1.3 1 N – 2 ©

Bidding is similar to 1 N – 2 ¨, but R cannot hold 5 spades in an unbalanced hand - with one exception: 5-5 in spades and a minor and a slam-try hand.

O has no superacceptance bid with max and 3-card support – R cannot have a GT hand with 5 spades (he would have started with 2 §)! Therefore all superacceptance bids show 4-card support and both O’s and R’s bids are analogous to those after 1 N – 2 ¨.

1 N – 2 ©

2 ª

- 2 N re-transfer

- 3 § re-transfer

- 3 ¨ ST, no void (3 © asks)

- 3 © 5 ª in bal/sbal hand. Aims primarily at best game, but could be ST

- 3 ª support

- 3 N 5332, ST

- 4 m 5422 (natural), ST

- 4 ª to play

- 3 N no support

- 4 m 4-card suit in 5422, ST

- 4 N quant with 5332

8.1.1.4 RE-TRANSFERS

R uses re-transfers holding the suit transferred to and

· a weak to a distributional GT hand with 4-card Major and a longer minor (will pass 3 m)

other bids are GF and/or ST:

· a 3-suiter

· a 4-card M with a longer minor

· 5-5 in M+m (then always ST)

The movement transfer+re-transfer only promises 4 cards in the two suits transferred to, and seldom contains a 5-card Major, but often a 5+card minor (4-4 only if (4441) or bal quant bid (bids 4 N next round)).

Since these sequences are sometimes a bit tricky, it’s important to have easy rules-of-thumb:

NB! In case Opener did not superaccept with 4-card Major support (boring hand), he must now bid 3 in the Major. Should this occur, a simplified structure is applied where R bids 3 N wo shortness and a side suit with shortness; a rebid of the minor re-transferred into shows a long suit (normally 6+).

the two first rebids show “longer-minor-than-major”; shortness shown NGF

4 § or 4 ¨ shows 5-5 in the Major and the minor; shortness shown NGF

a jump to 4 © shows 4 (M) 5(m) 22 and a ST

a jump to 4 ª and 4 N is quantitative with 4-4, trebleton NGF/step

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © - 2 N

3 §

- 3 ¨ 4 ©, 5+ §, short ¨

- 3 © 4 ©, 5+ §, short ª

- 4 § 5-5 ©+§ and short ª

- 4 ¨ 5-5 ©+§ and short ¨

- 4 © 2425

- 4 ª 3424

- 4 N 2434

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © - 3 §

3 ¨

- 3 © 4 ©, 5+¨, short §

- 3 ª 4 ©, 5+¨, short ª

- 4 § 5-5 ©+¨, short §

- 4 ¨ 5-5 ©+¨, short ª

- 4 © 2452

- 4 ª 3442

- 4 N 2443

1 N – 2 ©

2 ª - 2 N

3 §

- 3 ¨ 4 ª, 5+§, short ¨

- 3 © 4 ª, 5+§, short ©

- 4 § 5-5 ª+§, short ©

- 4 ¨ 5-5 ª+§, short ¨

- 4 © 4225

- 4 ª 4234

- 4 N 4324

1 N – 2 ©

2 ª - 3 §

3 ¨

- 3 © 4 ª, 5+ ¨, short ©

- 3 ª 4 ª, 5+ ¨, short §

- 4 § 5-5 ª+¨, short §

- 4 ¨ 5-5 ª+¨, short ©

- 4 © 4252

- 4 ª 4243

- 4 N 4342

Natural bidding follows. O bids 3 N with no fit and/or stoppers (alternatively “slow” stopper) in the short suit of R’s.

3-suiters:

In addition to having simple rules, we must give attention to a smooth setting of trumps to allow economical slam bidding. This is facilitated by the fact that since O has avoided a superacceptance on the transfer bid and not bid 3 M on the re-transfer, he cannot have 4-card support for the M, and thus the M is not a viable trump for slam (it may be on 4-3 for game, though…).

NB that after 2 N – 3 § there are two bids still available (3 ª and 3 N), after 3 § - 3 ¨ there is only one (3 N) – the first two bids already being reserved for “longer-minor-than-Major”.

3 N always shows 4-4 in the Majors

Since the minor re-transferred into is always natural, R is known to be short in the other minor.

- 3 N after starting with 2 ¨ is non-forcing

- 3 N after starting with 2 © is forcing

3 ª (only possible after the 2 N re-transfer) always shows 4-4 in the minors

- 3 ª after starting with 2 ¨ shows 1444

- 3 ª after starting with 2 © shows 4144

Since the Major initially transferred into (hearts after 2 ¨ and spades after 2 ©) are not possible to play as trumps (O having denied 4 cards), trump setting becomes easy and intuitive (NGF applies).

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © - 3 §

3 ¨ - 3 N

4 § agrees spades

4 ¨ agrees diamonds

8.1.1.5 QUANTITATIVE 4 N SEQUENCES

4 N is quantitative whenever R bids 4 N in the second round when O denies a M, (if O shows M or MM, 4 N is RKCB). This is also true directly after a transfer, and even after a transfer plus a re-transfer!!!

1 N – 4 N quantitative, R normally has a 4333 pattern with a 4-card minor

1 N – 2 §

2 ¨ - 4 N quantitative, R normally has 4-4 in the MM

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © - 4 N quantitative, R has 3433

1 N – 2 ©

2 ª - 4 N quantitative, R has 4333

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © - 2 N (=§)

3 § - 4 ª/N quantitative, R has 4-4 in © + §

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © - 3 § (=¨)

3 ¨ - 4 ª/N quantitative, R has 4-4 in © + ¨

1 N – 2 ©

2 ª - 2 N (=§)

3 § - 4 ª/N quantitative, R has 4-4 in ª + §

1 N – 2 ©

2 ª - 3 § (=¨)

3 ¨ - 4 ª/N quantitative, R has 4-4 in ª + ¨

1 N – 2 ª

2 N/3 § - 4 N quantitative 5332 with 5 §

1 N – 2 N

3 §/¨-4 N quantitative 5332 with 5 ¨

This means that the only balanced slam-try distribution that is not possible to show by a 4 N quantitative bid is 4-4 in the mm (or 5332 with a 5-card M). Only after transfer+retransfer is it possible for R to show where his trebleton is when showing 4-4 (i.e. the only 2-suiter he cannot show specifically is 4-4 MM.

8.1.2 1 N - 2 ª

O shows attitude vs a hypothetical GT to 3 N with long §. Accepting, he bids 2 N, otherwise 3 §.

R can sign off by bidding 3 § or continues with short-suit showing bids on the 3-level and void-showing bids on the 4-level.

1 N – 2 ª

2 N

- 3 § SO

- 3 ¨/©/ª singleton

- 3 N GT hand (acceptance of acceptance)

- 4 § ST with a long suit without a singleton

- 4 ¨/©/ª void, ST

- 4 N quantitative ST with 5332

1 N – 2 ª

3 §

- 3 N minimal ST hand without a singleton (NF)

- 4 § good ST

- other like over 2 N acceptance

8.1.3 1 N – 2 N

O is requested to show his attitude towards a hypothetical GT to 3 N with long ¨. Accepting, he bids 3 §, otherwise 3 ¨.

R can sign off by bidding 3 ¨ or continues with short-suit showing bids on the 3-level and void-showing bids on the 4-level Nevertheless, due to lack of bidding space, there is no direct §-shortness-showing bid within the 3 N range.

1 N – 2 N

3 §

- 3 ¨ SO

- 3 ©/ª short suit

- 3 N SO (acceptance of acceptance)

- 4 § singleton, ST (4 N = SO-attempt)

- 4 ©/ª void, ST

- 4 ¨ ST with a long suit without a singleton

- 4 N quantitative ST with 5332

3 ¨

- 3 N minimal ST without a singleton (NF)

- 4 ¨ good ST without a singleton

- other like over the 3 § acceptance

8.1.4 1 N – 3 §/¨

1 N – 3 §

3 ¨ hand not being able to bid any of the other below-described bids

- 3 M Lisbon for longer minor, 3 © possibly 5-5 with ST cards

- 3 N game-going hand only, 5521

- 4 §/¨ longer m in 6-4

- 4 ©/ª ST void, at least 5-5

1 N – 3 §

3 ª “strong” 4-card suit, aiming at a 4-3 fit

3 N nomally a good stopper in ©

4 §/¨ 4-card support

1 N – 3 ¨

3 © hand not being able to bid any of the other below-described bids

- 3 ª 5431-type or 5521 with slam interest

- 3 N game-going hand only, 5521

- 4 § etc like after 1 N – 3 § - 3 ©

3 ª “strong” 4-card © suit, aiming at a 4-3 fit

3 N normally a good stopper in ª

4 §/¨ 4-card support

8.1.5 1 N – 3 ª

NB that R has 4-4 mm and a limited quantitative ST (not biddable in other ways) or a clear slam hand with all balanced hand-types.

3 ª is only forcing to 3 N (R may pass 3 N with a minimum ST with – per definition – 4-4 mm).

1 N – 3 ª

3 N maximum or no 4-card minor, F4N

- 4 ns natural

- 4 N further sign-off, normally no 4-card suit to bid “up-the-line”

- 4 ns natural (4 N sign-off, 5 X = # of Aces acc to RKCB)

- 5 X acceptance of ns and aces according to the RKCB scale

4 §/¨ 4+card suit, minimum. Suits are bid up the line and 5 X from either player shows support for the last bid suit + number of key-cards (RKCB response).

4 ©/ª 3-card suit, 4-4 mm

4 N 4333 with a 4-card m and minimum

8.1.6 1 N – 4 §/¨

R bids 4 m (South-African Texas) with most hands that he simply wishes to play in 4 M. He does likewise, however, with a weak slam-try, looking more for top cards than hcp-maximum O hands.

With top-cards, O is allowed to make an acceptance bid of the relay suit. This precludes him from being declarer in 4 M, should R wish to stop in game, but with mostly top cards in O’s hands, there may not be many tenaces to protect. NB that if R goes to slam after the acceptance relay, 6 ¨/© - unless clearly illogical – is used as a re-transfer to “set things right”.

8.2 SIMPLIFIED 1 N BIDDING

Used after 1 § - 1 ¨ - 1 N and a 1 N opener in 3^rd or 4^th hand.

R cannot hold a GF hand unless it’s unbalanced, and slam hands are almost non-existant. GT hands are given higher priority.

- 2 § Stayman (only 3 responses)

- 2 ¨ Demands 2 © for signoff bids in either M or GF with both minors

- 2 © GT, 5-card suit

- 2 ª one or both minors, EFOS style

- 2 N natural GT

- 3 any natural GT (3 m with good suit, normally HHxxxx)

- 3 N to play

- 4 any Texas/to play

1 N – 2 §

2 ¨

- 2 © weak, choose Major (Truscott)

- 2 ª GT

- 2 N GT

- 3 m GT (with a Major)

- 3 M GF, natural

1 N – 2 §

2 M

- 2 N natural GT (2 N over 2 © promising 4 ª)

- 3 M GT, support

- 2 ª GT, 5-card suit

- 3 ª GF, natural

- 3 m GT, minor and shorter other M

Analogous continuation after 2 M rebids

1 N – 2 ¨

2 ©

- 2 ª to play

- 2 N GT, natural but with both mm, can play 3 m if necessary

- 3 §/¨ GT, long suit, worse suit than direct 3 §/¨

- 3 M short suit, GF with mm, normally at least 5-5

1 N – 2 ª

2 N better diamonds than clubs or equal length

- 3 m to play

- 3 M strong GT, short suit, both mm, subsequent 4 §/¨ is not forcing

8.3 1 § - 1 M – 1 X

The XY has been modified to cater to the very frequent canapé hands of Responder’s.

NB When R has passed, bidding is natural after this prelude.

NB that 1 § - 1 © - 1 ª could be strong, but that still the module can be played.

Only 2-level responses are artificial:

- 2 § relay to 2 ¨ with Game-try or Slam-try hands

- 2 ¨ to sign off in R’s suit OR GF, O normally bids 2 in R’s suit

- 2 © 5+ §, can be sign-off or GF

- 2 ª 5+ ¨, always GF

- 2 N natural INV

- 3 §/¨ natural INV, normally 4(M)-6(m)

- 3 M INV with long suit (3 ª INV vs 11-13 with 4-card support over 1 ª)

- 3 © 5-5, INV

- 3 ª 5-6, GF/ST

- 3 N to play

8.3.1 1 § - 1 M – 1 N – 2 §

NB that R’s Major is written as “M” while © or ª signify the other Major. R passes (weak w ¨) or bids

2 ¨ 11-13 (here the only bid)

- 2 © INV with 5-4 in the Majors

- 2 M light INV

- 2 ª 5-6, light INV

- 2 N constructive INV with 5-card M (stronger than 2 M)

- 3 m INV, 5-5

- 3 © 5-5, INV

- 3 M long M, ST wo void

- 3 ª/4 m/4 © long M, ST, void

8.3.2 1 § - 1 M – 1 N – 2 ¨

In old Skalmar/SKROT, R was forced to bid 1 © over 1 § with 8-11 with 5 ª and 4 ©, since the © suit might disappear. This has been remedied in the following way:

2 ¨ over 1 N is primarily to play in R’s Major, or is a general GF. However after

1 § - 1 ª

1 N

R bids 2 ¨ with 5 ª and 4 © and just a desire to play 2 © or 2 ª.

1 § - 1 ª

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © 4 hearts

2 ª neutral bid

1 § - 1 ©

1 N – 2 ¨

2 © O always bids 2 © here

If R proceeds over O’s bid (except for a signoff 2 ª when O shows a 4-card © suit with 2 © after 1 § - 1 ª - 1 N – 2 ¨) it is GF and natural, never canapé.

- 2 N balanced (normally)

- 3 m 4+card suit, denies canapé

- 3 M 5-card suit, ST

- 3 oM natural, GF

- 3 N 5-card M, to choose game

8.3.3 1 § - 1 M – 1 N – 2 M

R shows a canapé hand and GF values, but may have a sign-off hand if clubs is the minor (with diamonds as the minor, R would have bid 2 § to pass O’s 2 ¨).

1 § - 1 M

1 N – 2 ©

2 ª (always)

- 2 N 6+ § suit (3 § asks for shortness), GF

- 3 § to play

- 3 ¨/© 5 §, 4 M, shortness NGF

- 3 ª 5-6

- 3 N 4522, NF

- 4 § 4522, very strong

- 2 ª

2 N (always)

- 3 § 6+ ¨ suit; GF (3 ¨ asks for shortness)

- 3 ¨/© 5 ¨, 4 M, shortness NGF

- 3 ª 5-6

- 3 N/4 § 4522, NF/very strong

8.3.4 1 § - 1 © - 1 ª

Almost the same bidding applies, but two difficulties arise:

1 § - 1 ©

1 ª - 2 ª is no longer a single raise, it shows 5+ ¨

O can be strong

Case a) is solved by 2 § followed by 2 ª shows 8-»11 (a 5-6 INV hand is probably not vital to show…).

Over the relays 2 § / 2 ¨ O bids 2 ª as a neutral bid with 17+ (he would have jumped to 2 ª with a 6-card suit over 1 ©); other bids are strong and show extra distribution (2 © may be 5-4) e.g. 3 m = 5-5.

8.4 1 re – 1 M – 1 N

1 N shows 11-16 and often contains shortness in M. A suit rebid normally implies good distribution and/or unsuitability for NT.

After 1 ¨ - 1 ©, 1 N always shows clubs. With 4-5, however, O would normally rebid 2 § which, in consequence, more often show 4-5 than 5-4.

R now shows attitude and makes INV bid both vs a 13-14 hand and a 15-16 hand. Given the (implied) bad fit, R seldom makes an INV bid with less than 10 good hcp.

Note that since R did not make a weak jump shift (3-7) to 2 ª, a direct rebid of 2 ª shows slightly better cards.

1 ¨ – 1 M (same bidding applies after 1 © - 1 ª - 1 N with logical adjustments)

1 N

- 2 ¨ weak preference

- 2 © 4-5-card suit, weak

- 2 M (6)7-10 (©) / 8-10 (ª), 6-card suit

- 2 N strong INV, »12 hcp

- 3 m good INV, 5+ suit (M equal length or shorter)

- 3 © strong INV, 5-5 or better

- 3 M strong INV, very good suit

- 3 N to play

- 2 § investigating relay (natural and weak if bidder has passed)

- 2 ¨ 11-12(13) all hand

- 2 M light GT

- 2 N light GT (»(10)11 hcp)

- 3 § new relay (same continuation as if O rebids 2 N)

- 3 ¨ push

- 3 © 5-5, GF

- 3 M GF, long good suit

- 2 © 13-14, 4-card suit (if 1 ¨ - 1 ª) or 1-5 MM (1 © - 1 ª)

- 3 ¨ so-so GT

- 3 © sets suit as trumps, ST

- 3 § GF, natural, often 5+ suit

- other like over 2 ¨

- 2 M 13-14, doubleton preference (after 1 ¨ - 1 M = 5422)

- 3 M GF

- 3 ¨ so-so GT

- 2 N GT

- 3 § GF, natural

- 3 § 13-14, 5 ¨, 4 § and 31-13 MM (only after 1 ¨ - 1 M)

- 3 ¨ GT

- 2 N all 15-16 hands, GF

- 3 § investigating relay (identical continuation to the 3 § relay when O rebids 2 ¨ instead of 2 N)

- 3 ¨ singleton in R’s suit in 5431

- 3 © 5422 with 4 © when that is possible (1 ¨ - 1 ª)

5422 with 4 § (in other sequences)

- 3 ª 5422 with 4 § (when 3 © shows hearts)

5422 with 4 ¨ (1 © - 1 ª - 1 N)

- 3 N 5332 (1 © - 1 ª) – R’s 4 © sets ª as trumps

1444 (1 ¨ - 1 ª)

- 3 © sets © as trumps

- 3 ª sets ª as trumps

8.5 2 N bidding

2 N 20-21

1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 ¨ - 2 M – 2 N 22-23

2 ¨ - 2 M – 2 N 24-25

O may hold a 5-card Major. The system is based on a F-club structure

3 § Asks for 5-card M or 4-card ª. R uses this aproach with all balanced hands when he is interested in Op’s major-suit holding or when he wants to make a slamtry with a balanced hand. He may also have (4-6) in the majors or 5 ª and 4 ©.

3 ¨ Shows 5+ © and may be a ST with 5-5 MM

3 © 5+ ª, may be 5-5 MM to play game only

3 ª GF+ mm in principle (minor-suit Stayman)

3 N Natural

4 §/¨/©/ª At least a mild slamtry with 6+cards in the suit nearest ab

8.5.1 2 N – 3 §

3 ¨ denies a 5-card M and a 4-card ª

3 © 4-card ª, may or may not have 4-card ©

3 ª 5-card suit

3 N 5-card © suit

2 N – 3 §

3 ¨

- 3 © To play 3 N or to make a ST. O bids 3 N or 3 ª, the former as a slam warning

- 3 N/(3 ª)

- 4 m ST with 4-5-card suit

- 4 ¨ 4-card ¨ and 3-card §

- 4 © 3-card m support

- 4 ª 5 cards in other m

- 4 N negative

- 5 m negative w 4+card support

- 5 X RKCB response with 4-card support (discounting m suit)

same responses used in similar situations after O shows 4-card ª or R shows 4-card ©

- 4 © ST with 6 © and 4 ª, NF

- 4 ª like 4 ©, but forcing

2 N – 3 §

3 ¨

- 3 ª R shows 4-card © (could be ST with 5+ ª or SO with 6+ ª in addition to the © suit)

- 4 ©/m support/cue w good cards and support

- 3 N no support

- 4 m ST (see above for cont)

- 4 © ST with 5+ ª (if Op bids 4 N then R may “step” Key-cards showing 6-card ª suit)

- 4 ª SO with 6+ ª

- 3 N 5 ª and 4 ©, limited values

- 4 m Lisbon (must be exceptional cards given R’s limited character)

- 4 M support

- 4 m 4 ª and 5+ m, ST (continuation, see above)

- 4 © 4 ª and long ©, SO

2 N – 3 §

3 © (4-card ª)

- 3 ª asks for 4-card © (does not promise © though; could be ST with a 4-5-card minor)

- 3 N less than 4 ©

- 4 m ST with 4-5-card suit (see above)

- 4 m 4-4 MM and 3-card suit

- 4 © SO

- 4 ª asks O to bid 4 N, if continuing R shows number of Aces/ 5 agreeing m, 5 N is quantitative

- 4 N RKCB for ©

- 3 N SO

- 4 m cuebid, ª support

- 4 © transfer to 4 ª

2 N – 3 §

3 ª

- 3 N SO

- 4 m 5-card suit, ST

- 4 © ST in ª

2 N – 3 §

3 N

- 4 § ST in ©

- 4 ¨ transfer

- 4 © 5-card §, ST

- 4 ª 5-card ¨, ST

8.5.2 2 N – 3 ¨

3 © normal response

3 ª Asks for support (3+card)

- 4 § Decent cards/support (conventional, not cuebid)

- 3 N no support

- 4 m game-going, 5-5

- 4 © ST, 4-card ª on the side

- 4 ª same as 4 ©, forcing

- 4 © 3+card support

- 3 N 5-card ©, 4 card ª, limited (à p/c)

- 4 m Natural ST (5-4 +)

Opener proceeds acc to general rules à trump setting

- 4 © SO

- 4 ª ST with 55 MM

- 4 N quant

3 ª/4 m suit, © support and good cards

- 4 ¨ (when possible) re-transfer

- other cuebids (3 N paves way)

3 N no good suit, but fit and good cards/max

8.5.3 2 N - 3 ©

3 ª

- 3 N Natural

- 4 m Natural ST (5-4+)

- 4 © 5-5 MM, p/c

- 4 ª SO

- 4 N quant

3 N no good suit, but fit and good cards/max (4 © = re-transfer)

4 m/© good suit, ª support and good cards

8.5.4 2 N – 3 ª

3 N a) no 4-card m

b) 4-card m, but very unsuitable cards for slam

- 4 m 5-card suit, both mm

- 4 © one-suiter §

- 4 ª one-suiter ¨

- 4 N 5-5 mm, for game only

4 m 4+ card minor

- one step ST in other m

- other support

8.5.5 2 N – 4 X

Over 4 § O bids 4 ¨ as waiting/accepting and 4 M as a cuebid. 4 N is negative

Over 4 ª O bids 4 N as negative and 5 X as RKCB responses excluding 5 §; 5 § is negative but unsuitable for NT play.

Over 4 ¨/© O bids R’s suit as negative, a new suit is a cuebid and 4 N = RKCB.

8.5.6 2 N bidding with weaker O

(2 M) – 2 N (15-17/18)

(1 X) – p – (p) – 2 N (19-21)

(1 X) – D – (2 X) – p

(p) 2 N (»18/19-20 hcp)

For simplicity reasons the same system applies

8.6 3 N Bidding

1 § - 3 N (14-16)

- 4 § BARON. Most often clubs; of course no M interest

- 4 ¨ diamonds, may be 4 §

- 4 © 5 § (4 N negative)

- 4 M “cuebid” with 4 § without 4 ¨

- 4 ¨ 5+ ¨, forcing

- 4 ©/ª 5+ suit, forcing

- 4 N negative, no support

- 4 ª positive

- 5 X RKCB response, positive

- 4 N quant

1 § - 1 ¨

2 § - 2 ¨

3 N (26-27)

- 4 § BARON. As soon as someone bypasses 4 N he shows support for the last suit and number of Keycards/RKCB

- 4 ¨ Relay to 4 © to sign off

- 4 M forcing; O bids 4 N as negative and RKCB responses on 5-level.

8.7 Interference

8.7.1 after a natural (penalty-oriented) double

Natural methods apply, with the exception that 2 m are multi-way; either natural or preparing specific rescue operations.

2 M, however, are relatively constructive bids, and O is allowed to raise with a good fit in competition.

RD is strong (»9+) and establishes a forcing situation (ns or PD of Op). R’s RD and subsequent 2 N is GF with any ls, a direct bid in a ls on the 3-level is a GT.

2 § followed by (if op double)

RD ¨ + ©

2 ¨ ¨ + ª

2 © both M, equal length or longer ©

2 ¨ followed by (if op double)

RD both M, longer ª

2 © weak hand with ©

2 ª weak hand with ª

8.7.2 after a natural overcall

On 2-level overcalls R’s D = TD, on 2 M practically guaranteeing 4 cards in the unbid M. 2 ns is competitive but not very weak (O may raise in competition).

If R doubles, O’s suit bids are natural, 2 ª on 2 © may be bid on a 3-card suit with bad ©. On 2 ª, O’s 3 © shows a 4-card suit, 3 m a 5-card suit and 2 N takes care of all other hands (on 2 N, R’s 3 m only looks for a playable partscore).

Ns on the 3-level (higher or lower) is a natural GT; good if made by a jump (2 ns interval ends with a bad GT hand).

2 N is a relay to 3 §, though not on 2 §, when it’s GF to bid suits/non-stopper up the line.

2 N (when relay) followed by a ls is SO/FB.

2 N followed by ovs or higher is GF, ovs denies a stopper while higher bids promise one.

A direct cuebid shows a 5-card M:

· in a m, R shows at least one 5-card M. O shows 3+ M from below. On O’s 3 © R bids 3 ª with 5 ª without a stopper and 3 N with 5 ª and a stopper.

· 3 © = 5 ª. O’s 3 ª shows a doubleton ª without a © stopper, 3 N the same length with a stopper

· 3 ª = 5 © including a ª stopper

Special sequences:

1 N - (2 ª) - 2 N - (p)

3 § - ( p ) - 3 ª 5-card © suit without a ª stopper

With only a 4-card © suit and only interest for game, R normally has to start with a negative double.

1 N - (2 X) - 3 N normally affirms a stopper in X.

1 N - (2 X) - 2 N - (p) (X ¹ ª)

3 § - (p) - 3 N short ovs and GF, normally a 3-suited hand-type

(X = ª)

direct stopper-asking

8.7.3 artificial interventions

Overcalls as well as conventional doubles are included into this category.

R’s ns on the 2- and 3-levels have the same significance as in 4.2. 2 N is still a relay to 3 § (also over a 2 § intervention).

D = cardshowing with defensive interest and at least a tolerance to play the suit bid.

If op’s action shows one specific suit, a cuebid in that suit on the 2-level shows a distributional TD with the unbid suits. A cuebid on the 3-level shows a 5-card M as unsual.

If op’s action shows two specific suits, a cuebid in the “cheapest” suit shows a distributional TD with the two unbid suits. A cuebid in the more distant suit shows a 5-card (unbid) M.

R’s D = FàPD or suits/o’s 2 N. If R follows RD up with 2 N it is GF while 2 M/3 m is GT.

R’s pass followed by D of bids which do not positively show support indicates a “commando”-PD.

8.7.4 interference on Stayman & relay bids

Over a double our aim in priority is to a) find fit to transfer suit (allowing to compete) or 4-4 M (Stayman) b) locating stoppers in the doubled suit and c) find reasonable partscores, even on 4-3 (mostly 2 M) if stoppers are insufficient. Rule: pass always denies a stopper if op double 2-level bids.

1 N - 2 § - (D)

RD decent 4+ suit, suggestion to play

- 2 ¨ new Stayman

- 2 © à like undisturbed

2 ¨/©/ª as undisturbed, but promising a club stopper (normal continuation, stoppers having been investigated)

pass denies a club stopper

- RD “Stayman”, can be used without a M, normally denies MM

- 2 ¨ no Major (here an unchanged 3 X structure can be maintained)

- 2 M NF, 4-card suit

- 2 N stopper

- 3 X GF as if no interference

1 N – 2 § - (X)

pass - RD

- 2 © 4-card suit, possibly 4-4 M (the 3 X structure no longer maintainable, we substitute it with 3 § as a general GF and 3 ¨ as NF with ¨)

- 2 ª 4-card ª, GT

- 2 N stopper

- 3 § GF, 5-card ª suit

- 3 ¨ NF, ¨ suit

- 3 © GF , support (if GT, direct 2 © or 2 ¨)

- JS splinters

- 2 ª 4-card suit (as after 2 ©)

- 2 N stopper

- 3 § ST with ª

- 3 ¨ NF

- 3 ª GT

- JS splinter

- 2 ¨ both Majors, at least GT cards (from 4-4 and upwards)

- 2 © 3-card suit

- 2 ª 5 ª and 4 ©

- 2 ª doubleton ©, 3 ª

- 3 m maximum, 4-card corresponding M

- 3 M minimum, 4-card corresponding M

- 2 © 4-card ©, not 4 ª, exactly GT

- 2 ª 5-card ª suit, GT, not 4-card ©

- 2 N/3N GT/NF without a 4-card M, promising a (good) § stopper

- 3 § general GF

1 N - 2 re - (D) NB, if R is weak he has either 5-card M or a longer m.

RD doubleton support, stopper

Pass doubleton support, no stopper

2 M 3-card support regardless of stopper

higher 4-card M support, same structure as without the double (though 2 ª is free to show a positive hand with spades after 1 N – 2 ¨ - D)

3 M minimum, 4-card support

1 N – 2 ¨- (D)

- RD transfer to 2 ©

- 2 © (R passes with most weak/distributional GTs due to lack of fit)

- 2 ª general GF with 5+ © (natural cont, since O’s © length is known)

- 2 N systemic re-transfer

- 3 § systemic re-transfer

- 3 ¨ ST as without intervention

- 3 © GT with HHxxxx in ©

- 2 © a mediocre GT with 6 ©

- 2 ª general GF with 4-card © in a balanced hand without a stopper (!)

- 2 N good GT with 5 © and a good stopper in ¨

1 N – 2 ¨- (D)

- 3 § GT, 5-5 in © + §

- 3 ¨ asks for half-stopper with 4-card © hand

- 3 © good GT with 6 ©

- 3 N the 4-card © hand with a good stopper in re

- JS voids as usual

1 N – 2 ¨- (D)

- 2 © for play

- 2 ª general F1 with 5 ©, O continues naturally, since O’s © length is known)

- other as if there were no intervention

2 ©

- any continuation as if there were no intervention, but

- 2 ª (conv w 5+©) natural continuation, since O’s length is known

- 3 ¨ GF, normally with 4 © and no stopper (3 © here is passable)

other

any methods like without a double

1 N – 2 © - (D)

p doubleton support, no stopper

- RD transfer to 2 ª

- 2 ª

- 2 N/3 §/3 ¨/© systemic meaning (re-transfers, ST)

- 3 ª GT with HHxxxx in ª

- 3 N 5332 with a stopper in ©

- 2 ª bad GT with 6 ª

- 2 N 4-card ª, forcing, but no good stopper in ©

- 3 §/¨ GT, 5-5

- 3 © 5332-hand, no good stopper in ©, GF

- 3 ª good GT with 6 ª

- 3 N 4-card ª, stopper in ©

- JS4 void

RD doubleton support, stopper

- 2 ª for play

- other as without any intervention

2 ª 3-card support

- any as without any intervention, but

- 3 ¨ 4-card ª without a good stopper

ns analogous to 1 N – 2 ¨ (X) - ns

1 N - 2 re - (bid)

pass - 3 re as a re-transfer has 1^st priority. 3 M is GT and a minor suit is GF and natural, but with unknown shortness. D shows a balanced GF or 3-suiter.

Should O “push” with 3 M, R’s 3 N is natural and 4 m shows a longer suit. 3 in their suit is stopper-asking, used if balanced or with a 3-suiter.

1 N - 2 ª - (D)

RD/2 N acceptance without/with a ª stopper (analogous if D on our 2 N)

pass/3 § non-acceptance without/with a ª stopper - “ -

9. 1 § bidding

11-13-hands go via 1 §:

· If they are strictly balanced (4333/4432/5332), but wo a 5-card Major (an exception can be made to the exception if the suit is bad and the hand is otherwise suitable for notrumps)

· With semibalanced distributions depending on judgment (suit quality, honours, which suits, etc). 6322 can very well be opened 1 § if the hand ”smells” notrump. 5-card § + 4-card M hands are often opened 1 §; of course, however, a hand like ª AKxx © xx ¨ Jx § AQxxx is opened 2 §)

· In some cases when unbalanced and slightly awkward to bid in another way; weak 5-card § suit with a 4-card Major and 3 ¨ - 1 other M distribution, 4441 with a singleton honour, etc. Unbalanced hands opened 1 § may create problems, since the system cannot show these distributions…

All 17+ hands are bid via 1 § except 20-21/24-25 bal which are bid via 2 N Opener and the Multi.

In this version 2 § bids are conventional in uncontested auctions, both from Opener and Responder, the only exception being 1 § - 1 N – 2 § which is stone-age.

9.1 Responses

Responses can be divided into 3 groups:

· 1 ¨ shows 0-7 hands “regardless” of distribution (there are a few preemptive bids, however)

· Forcing responses; 1 ©, 1 ª, 2 § and some high responses

· Non-forcing (thus natural) responses; 1 N, 2 ¨/©/ª/N

- 1 ¨ 0-7

- 1 ©/ª 8+ hcp, 4+card suit. NB that R must bid 1 M even holding strong cards and/or a longer minor

- 1 N 8-11/12 hcp, (s)bal hand wo a 4-card Major

- 2 § Strong wo a 4-card M; at least GT with mm or one long m or at least GF with a bal hand

- 2 ¨ 8-11/12 with at least 5 ¨, no 4-card M and normally unbalanced (i.e. mm or 6+card ¨. 2 ¨ is bid with 5-5 mm and a limited hand)

- 2 ©/ª 8-11/12 with a 3-card suit and exactly 4 ¨ and 5-6 §

- 2 N (12)13 hcp, (s)bal hand wo a 4-card Major

- 3 § 8-11/12 hcp, 6+card § suit, denies 4 ¨ and a 4-card M

- 3 ¨/© transfer preempt w HH/HJTxxxx (7 cards) and not much outside

- 3 ª solid minor wo side strength

- 3 N 14-16 hcp, strictly balanced hand wo a 4-card Major

- 4 m Solid Major, outside strength

- 4 M Solid Major, no mentionable outside strength

9.1.1 1 § - 1 ¨

R shows 0-7 regardless of distribution. With such a weak R, priority is to stay low with an 11-13- or even a minimum 17+ O, and with something reminding of a diamond suit – in particular if lacking a 4-card M - O sees to this priority in the best way possible – he passes!

(Other) weak rebids are 1 ©/ª, normally showing a 4-card suit, but sometimes bid on only 3 cards (rule: longest M, with equal length 1 ©). Bidding a 3-card suit bid normally implies a § suit (since pass is an alternative).

Also: when O is weak and R bids a second time, O MUST pass, also 1 ª. Only if there is an intervention, O may support to 2 ª or 3 m.

Ambiguous rebids

1 ©/ª 1 M could be 11-13, most often with a 4-card suit. They could be strong too, however, in that case limited to approx. 21 hcp. Handtypes included (when strong) are:

· Balanced with 5332 shape

· Unbalanced with M as the longest suit

· Unbalanced with M and a longer m (m-showing bids denying a M)

· 5-4 or 4-5 in a m and exactly 3-card M

Please note that O only bids canapé after 1 § - 1 ¨, never after other responses. Also note that here, as opposed to previous SKROT versions, O bids 1 M with a 3-card suit also with strong (limited) cards if holding 9 cards in mm.

Strong rebids:

Instead of all jump rebids showing strong hands, 2 § and 2 ¨ are used as strong relays, 2 § implying a Major, 2 ¨ implying both minors.

1 N 17-19, simple NT structure applies

2 § 20/22+, at least one at least 4-card M (could be 4441) or 26-27 hcp balanced

2 ¨ 17+ with at least 10 cards in mm or 22+ with at least 9 cards in mm or 22-23 balanced

2 ©/ª 3-card suit with one at least 6-card minor, 17-19

2 N 20+, one at least 6-card minor

3 §/¨ 17-19, 6-card suit, no 3-card Major

3 M Direct ST with autonomous suit, even a 0-7 hand could bring slam!

3 N gambling, normally long suit

9.1.1.1 1 § - 1 ¨ - 1 M

R must bid with 5-7, even less with support. Since R is always weak, also jump bids can be used to show support, then with more freakish hands.

- 1 ª 5-7, 4+card suit. R can bid with slightly less if short in ©. An 11-13 hand must pass now.

- 1 N (5)6-7, bal/sbal. R often bids 1 N in favour to 2 §/¨ over 1 ª with a 4-card © suit on the side in order not to miss it.

- 2 §/¨(/©) 5-7, 5+card suit. An 11-13 hand must pass, cannot even raise (if uncontested).

- 2 M (3)4-7 with 4-card support. Only a very boring 17(18) balanced may pass here.

- 2 N 5-7, 5-card support with any void

- jump 5-7, 5-card support, splinter

- 3 M (6)-7, 5-card support wo any shortness

- 2 ª 2-4, 6-card suit

1 § - 1 ¨

1 M – 1 X

- 1 N Normally 5332 hand type

- 2 § 5-card M, normally unbal

- 2 ¨ 5-card ¨, often canapé

- 2 © 4+card ©, 5+card ª (never canapé between the Majors); 17-19

- 2 M 5-card §, often canapé (could be 3 M, 5 ¨ and 4 §)

- 2 N 5-4 mm, most often 5 § (else 2 ¨)

- 3 m 4-6 hand with maximum for 1 M

- 3 M strong 1-suiter, max for 1 M

1 § - 1 ¨

1 M – 1 X

- 2 §

- 2 ¨ not 3-card M (O may pass 2 ¨)

- 2 © 5-card suit (balanced or bad suit, otherwise direct 2 © over 1 X)

- 2 M 3-card suit, minimum or bad values

- 2 N (6)-7 hcp,

O proceeds naturally after these overtures. A couple of specs:

1 § - 1 ¨

1 © - 1 ª

- 3 © implies 3-card spade support

- 2 § + 2 ª implies 3-card spade support but not max

- 2 § + 3 © denies 3-card spade support

1 § - 1 ¨

1 ª - 1 N

- 2 © ª+©, minimum

- 2 § + (©) maximum,ª+© (20-21, GF)

- 3 © max, 5-5

1 § - 1 ¨

1 M – 2 m

- new natural and limited. 2 ¨ often implies a canapé over 2 §.

- 2 © 5-4

- pass weak or minimum strong

- 2 N F1 (min R rebids m)

- 3 m (NB) minimum strong hand with support, NF

1 § - 1 ¨

1 M – 2 M NB that O may have a 5431 with mm !!

2 N 5-4 mm and only 3-card M; natural continuation

other M general GT, always 5-card M

3 m normally canapé

3 M just a bit too good to pass 2 M, i.e. (17)18-19 more or less balanced

9.1.1.3 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 §

1 § - 1 ¨

2 §

2 § is almost GF, like ”2 § in standard” but more specified. O always has at least a 4-card M, unless rebidding 3 N (26-27 hcp). Bidding is, of course, facilitated by the fact that R is limited to 0-7 hcp.

Only in two cases is the bidding allowed to stop before game: a direct jump to 3 M over the 2 ¨ relay, or if R is very weak opposing a limited 4441.

R relays with 2 ¨ unless he has a good suit to show (HHxxx/HTxxx).

1 § - 1 ¨

2 §

- 2 ¨

2 © 5+ ©

2 ª 5+ ª

2 N 4441, 20+

3 m 5+suit and either 4-card M

3 M NF with a long M suit and approx 9 tricks

3 N 26-27 hcp (see Notrump Complex)

1 § - 1 ¨

2 § - 2 ¨

2 ©

- 2 ª (relay, if instead R bids a new suit it shows a decent one (cf directly bid); 2 N shows 5 spades)

- 2 N 4-card spade suit

- 3 m natural

- 3 © F1 (cf direct 3 ©); this route implies that O could imagine 3 N, otherwise he can jump to 4 © over 2 ª, or is mildly slam interested

- 3 © positive/max with Hxx/xxxx as support (3 ª asks for singleton)

- jump splinter with minimum, but always with 4-card support

- 4 © bad cards with no controls whatsoever

2 ª

- 2 N relay

- etc in analogy with 2 © bidding

2 N

- 3 § asks for singleton, GF

- 3 ¨/©/ª singleton

- 3 N singleton §, 20-24/25

- 4 § singleton §, 25/26+

- 3 ¨/©/ª attempt to stop; R passes with suit or bids next suit with shortness; other bids show that O wishes to play game even opposing a bust

3 m

- relay asks for M (over 3 ¨ - 3 © O shows © with 3 N or above (the latter with cards too strong or too distributional to risk a pass of 3 N).

9.1.1.4 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 ¨

2 ¨ is used with a balanced 22-23 hand (rebids 2 N). It is also used with:

· 17-21 (approx) with mm but with 10 cards (55 or 64); thus no 3-card M to rebid

· 21/22+ with all 5-4 mm unbalanced hands

NB that O treats 5-4 mm + 2-2 MM as balanced unless extremely strong (25+)

R bids 2 © with equal length in mm or better § and 2 ª with better ¨. He can also bid 3 m directly with maximum (5-7) and 4-card support, but in this case he denies a 4-card M (if O has 22-23 then the M is lost).

1 § - 1 ¨

2 ¨

- 2 ©

- 2 N 22-23 hcp, (notrump Complex)

- 3 § suggests play here

- 3 ¨ 6-4, but does not promise extras

- M (2 ª/3 ©) strong with short suit, R’s 4 § is an attempt to stop.

- 3 N 5422, 24-26

- 4 §/¨ very strong with 6-card suit, most often 6-5

- 4 M if jumping: void with at least 5-5

- 2 ª

- continuation in analogy with the above

R’s 3 m is normally always an attempt to sign off. A ”reverse”, i.e. 2 © followed by 3 or 4 ¨ shows 3-3 or (exceptionally) 4-4 and positive cards (on 4-level GF). Over a shortness-showing 2 ª or 3 ©, the other M is natural.

9.1.1.5 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 M

1 § - 1 ¨

2 M

- other M natural, 3 © over 2 ª shows a 6-card suit

- 3 § p/c

- 3 ¨ can tolerate higher levels in §

- 2 N max-relay (6-7)

- 3 m minimum

- 3 other M singleton other M (you guess which m…)

- 3 M singleton other m (you guess which m...)

9.1.1.6 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 N

NB that O is often unbalanced, since an alternative is to jump all the way to 3 N.

- 3 § negative for p/c unless O has really good cards

- 3 ¨ sign off

- 3 M 3-card suit, often shortness in other M

- 3 N singleton other m (you guess which one...)

- 3 ¨ positive, maximum, GF

- som ovan

9.1.1.7 1 § - 1 ¨ - 3 m

1 § - 1 ¨

3 m

- ny stopper investigating

9.1.1.8 1 § - 1 ¨ - 3 M

1 § - 1 ¨

3 M

- 3 N positive wo any 1^st-round controls

- new suit first-round control

9.2 1 § - NF responses (natural)

Bids are described in a previous table. Note that the jump to 3 N is strictly balanced, since O may be strong.

9.2.1 1 § - 1 N

11-13-Opener always passes.

A stronger O bids:

2 new 4+card suit (4441 w » 17-21 or 5+suit)

2 M 5+card suit

2 N strong (»20+) 4441 or 22-23/26+ balanced (ST)

3 new sets the suit as trumps, ST

3 N to play, normally 17-19 balanced

1 § - 1 N

2 m

- 2 M honours (having denied a 4-card suit)

- 2 N natural

- 3 m minimum

- 3 M honnour, support, maximum

2 M

- 4 M minimum

- 3 M maximum

- 2 N temporizing

- 3 m 5+card suit

9.2.2 1 § - 2 N

A weak O passes or bids 3 N. With stronger cards O proceeds in the following manner:

- 3 N 17(-18) balanced

- 4 N 19 hcp

- 3 m 4+ suit, may be strong balanced

- 3 M 5+ suit

- 4 any sets suit

9.2.3 1 § - 3 N

See Notrump complex

9.2.4 1 § - 2 ¨

R has either 5 ¨ + 4 § (then normally not 5422) or at least a 6-card suit; possible 5-5 mm.

A weak O passes or raises one step. The raise does not promise maximum.

The bids 2 © and 2 N trade places in a conventional sense, 2 © to become a relay, 2 N to show 5+©. Otherwise new suits are natural and strong, and a jump in a new suit sets the suit in a ST tempo.

A jump to 3 N shows a bad 17-19 with normally a doubleton in ¨ and good side stoppers.

1 § - 2 ¨

2 ©

- 2 ª mm (more limited than unusual since a INV possibility exists directly over 1 §, via 2 §)

- 2 N tell me more...

- 3 § 5-4 (relay asks for singleton)

- 3 ¨ 6-4 (ditto)

- 3 M singleton and 5-5 mm

- 2 N max, no singleton, one-suiter

- 3 § max, one-suiter, any singleton (3 ¨ asks)

- 3 ¨ min, one-suiter, no singleton

- 3 ©/ª/N min, one-suiter, singleton (3 N = short §)

If opps intervene over 2 ¨, and O passes, R’s 3 § as a balancing action shows 5-5 (+), whereas 2 N shows 4 § and 5-6 ¨.

9.2.5 1 § - 2 M

A weak O must choose between pass and a preference to 3 m. Other bids, including 2 N, are strong.

A bid in the other M shows a suit good enough to play opposite the known singleton (ST), 4 oM is a sign-off-bid and 4 M shows minimum with 5-card M and no side shortness. 3 M is forcing.

A jump to 4 m is a natural ST. With a 17-19 hand O normally prefers to temporise with 2 N. A jump to 3 N is a sign-off.

2 N is a conventional relay:

- 3 § min and 6-card § suit – 6430

- 3 ¨ min and 5431

- 3 M max and 5431

- 3 other M max and 6430

- 3 N max, 5431 and a singleton honour in M

9.2.6 1 § - 3 §

Natural bidding where a weak O always passes (is allowed to push to 4 m if Opps intervene).

9.3 1 § - positive and preemptive responses

- 1 M 8+ and at least a 4-card suit. Since there are no forcing bids with hands containing a 4-card suit, 1 M can very well be (and is so frequently) bid with a longer minor suit. 1 M can be balanced or unbalanced.

- 2 § strong wo a 4-card M, often GF, but could be used with a GT hand with either mm or a long and good m suit. 2 § could also be used in order to get O to declare 3 N and to show NT hand (wo M) unsuitable for direct NT bids (semi-balanced, too strong)

- 3 ¨/© preemptive in the next suit, 7+card good suit (HHxxxxx/HJTxxxx) without any side Ace or King

1 § -

- 3 ª solid 7-card m without side values

- 4 §/¨/©/ª solid 7(+)card M with (4 m ) / wo (4 M) side Ace

9.4 1 § - 1 M

1 ª a) 11-13 with 4 spades

b) 17+ with exactly 5 spades (never canapé from O after 1 § - 1 M)

Continuation in accordance with Notrump Complex (!)

1 N 11-13, no 4-card support, not 4 ª if 1 M = ©. Notrump Complex applies

2 § 17+ with

a) 5+ §

b) balanced

c) 3-suiter, short M

2 ¨/© 17+ with 5+ ¨/©

2 M 11-13, 4-card support

2 ª 17+ with 6+ ª suit

2 N 17+ with 4+card support, denies 17-19 balanced

3 any (¹ M) sets suit, ST

3 M 17-19 balanced with 4-card support

dbl jump void, trump support

3 N void other M, trump support

9.4.1 1 § - 1 M – 2 M

new negative

2 N no shortness (could be ST) – with acceptance O can bid 3 N with 4333

3 M preemptive

3 N 4333, suggests play

jump shortness, ST

9.4.2 1 § - 1 M – 2 §

The frequent rebid is 2 ¨, relay, which denies a 6+card M and/or a 5+card minor

- 2 M 6+card suit

- 2 other M 5+card § (cf 3 §) – canapé or 5-5

- 2 N 5+card ¨ (cf 3 ¨) – canapé or 5-5

- 3 § 8-11, 4-6 canapé

- 3 ¨ 8-11, 4-6 canapé

- 3 © 5-5

- 3 M semisolid suit

- 3 ª 5-6

1 § - 1 M

2 § - 2 ¨

- 2 © a) 22+ bal

b) 5-6 §, 4 ¨ and 3-card M

c) 3-suiter

- 2 ª 5+ §, 4-card in other M, natural continuation

- 2 N 17-19 or 26-27 bal (same cont applies after 2 © - 2 ª - 2 N)

- 3 m natural (ambitious)

- 3 M 5-card suit (3 © may be 4-5 MM)

- 3 ª 4-4

- 3 § one-suiter (§), denies 3-card support for M

- 3 ¨ 5+ §, 4(+) ¨, denies 3-card support for M

- 3 ©/ª 6+§, 3-card M, singleton shown NGF

- 3 N 63(M)22, limited (with more cards: 4 §)

- 2 ©

- 2 ª relay

- 2 N 22-23 bal

- 3 § 4441, short M. 3 ¨ point-count question (17-19, 20-21 etc), other suit bids set trumps NGF

- 3 ¨ clubs, diamonds and 3-card M support

- 3 ©/ª/N 5440, 5-card suit shown NGF (4 § with better cards than 3 N not risking a pass)

1 § - 1 M

2 §

- 2 other M (5+card §; NB if 4-6 then the hand contains 12+ hcp, else direct 3 §)

O continues with natural bids, but 2 N is an enquiry:

- 2 N like above, but with diamonds; here the relay is 3 §

- 2 N/3 §

- 3 new shortness NGF

- 3 M 5-5 (relay asks for shortness)

- 3 N/4 § 4522, 4 § not risking a pass (»13+hcp)

- 3 ¨ (where 3 § asks for shortness); long clubs (3 §/¨ switch places)

- 3 § 8-11, 4-6

- 3 ¨ asks for shortness

9.4.3 1 § - 1 M – 2 ¨

Note that no canapé applies from O’s side. O can therefore very well have 4 card in the other M.

When R bids voluntary 3 m bids after first having shown a 4-card M, he shows 5 cards in the minor, the Major can be shorter/longer or of equal length. With a 5-card M and a 4-card m R rebids his M or temporizes with 2 N (depending on hand structure). This principle goes through most natural, but also intervened, sequences.

Trump support (Hxx or better), when no other alternative seems better, is shown as follows:

- 3 ¨ 8-11 or 15+ (will act more decisively next round with 15+). A 8-11 hcp does normally not contain a 5-card Major

- jumps 12-14-splinters

- 3 N 12-14 wo singleton

9.4.4 1 § - 1 © - 2 ª / 1 § - 1 ª - 2 ©

NB that O promises 6 spades in the first-mentioned sequence.

Natural continuation (2 N over 2 N is a bit of a “catch-all” since 3 m would imply a 5-card suit.

Trump support (Hxx or better in ©, xxx or better in ª) is shown as follows:

- 3 M 8-11/15+ (O can ask for singleton with relay)

- jump new 12-14-splinter

- 3 N 12-14 wo singleton

- 4 M extremely rotten 8-9 hcp without any shortness

9.4.5 1 § - 1 M – 2 N

O denies 17-19 balanced, but can, otherwise, have any strong (17+) hand with 4+card support (normally he denies a void, since he did not make a dbljump over 1 M directly).

- 3 § 4-card M, 11+ hcp (relay asks for shortness)

- 3 ¨ 5-card M, 11+ hcp (- “ -)

- 3 M 5card M, 8-11 (- “ -)

- 3 other M/4 m 4-card M, 8-11, singleton

- 3 N 4-card M, 8-11, no singleton

9.4.6 1 § - 1 M – 3 M

According to general principles, i.e. R shows a singleton or bids nearest bid.

9.5 1 § - 2 §

Catch-all for diverse GT or stronger hands wo a 4-card Major. This includes:

· one-suiters with a long minor

· two-suiters with mm

· balanced hands not suited to a direct NT bid:

o strong for game but not strictly balanced (14+)

o wishing O to declare

o too strong for 3 N (16/17+ hcp)

O bids 2 ¨ with 11-13 and 2 N with 17-19 balanced. Other bids are natural.

1 § - 2 §

2 ¨

- 2 © both mm, GT+

- 2 ª one-suiter in §, GT+

- 2 N ST, balanced (normally 18+)

- 3 § one-suiter in ¨, GF

- 3 ¨ one-suiter in ¨, GT

- 3 © one-suiter in ¨, short § (complements 3 §)

- 3 ª transfer to 3 N, wants O to declare

- 3 N sign-off (knowing of 11-13)

- 4 m 5-6/6-5 mm 1-1 MM, ST

- 4 M void, mm, ST

9.5.1 1 § - 2 § - 2 ¨ - 2 © (mm)

O has a few natural bids at his disposal:

2 N minimum, good MM stoppers – bidding often stops here with a GT R

3 m minimum, 4-card support

3 N maximum, good MM stoppers

If O is unsure (e.g. with 3-3 mm not wanting to bid 2 N, or with 4-card support and max) he bids 2 ª.

1 § - 2 §

2 ¨ - 2 ©

- 2 ª

- 2 N GF

- 3 m max with 4-card support

- 3 M lowest M stopper with 3-3 mm

- 3 m 5+card suit, wishing to play there if O has 3-3 mm and minimum

- 3 M shortness, at least 5-5, good GT. 4 m is a sign-off

- 3 N to play

- 4 m 6-4-hand (over 4 §, 4 M is a §-agreeing cue and 4 ¨ sets diamonds, 4 N is negative. Over 4 ¨ à Lisbon).

- 2 N/3 m

- 3 m sign-off (normally 6-4 handtype)

- 3 M shortness, GF

- 3 N to play

- 4 M 6-4 handtype (like over 2 ª)

9.5.2 1 § - 2 § - 2 ¨ - 2 ª (§)

- 2 ª at least GT; O first considers whether to accept (2 N) or decline (3 §)

- 2 N

- 3 § ST, no shortness

- 3 new shortness, at least GF

- 3 N acceptance of acceptance

- 3 §

- pass with GT

- 3 new shortness, at least GF

- 3 N ST, no shortness, but limited (NF)

- 4 § same as 3 N but stronger

9.5.3 1 § - 2 § - 2 ¨ à R has diamonds

With a one-suited ¨ hand, R has three bids after this prelude:

- 3 § at least GF with shortness in either M, or no shortness (bids his M/3 N next round; 4 §/¨ if afraid 3 N will be passed out)

- 3 ¨ GT with long ¨

9.5.4 1 § - 2 § - 2 ¨ - 2 N

2 N is a balanced ST. R will, after hearing of 11-13, often conclude with 3 N (or transfer with 3 ª) with a long minor with no shortness or a balanced 17(-18).

3 §/¨ 4-card suit, not minimum, not 4 cards in the other minor

3 N minimum or no 4-card minor (R bids quantitatively or introduces a 5-card m

4 m 5-card suit, maximum

9.5.5 O is strong

Over 2 § O bids natural bids with 17 +, a new suit shows at least 5-cards. This will not be very frequent.

Next round O bids his m with a one-suiter. 2 N shows a balanced hand (need not be an original ST), whereas 3 N (if non-jumping) is NF with the other minor (always over 3 § or 3 ¨). With a balanced strong hand O takes RKCB or raises to 4 m.

With both minors, R bids as follows: (in no case should the bidding stop below 4 N, therefore 3 N is always forcing).

2 M

- 2 N balanced or »45mm22

- other M mm, often 5-5

- 3 M 3-card support in 5431

- 4 m 6-4

2 N

- 3 M shortness

- 4 m 6-4

A weak opener can bid 3 or 4 in R’s suit depending on support. Other bids are strong according to the following:

new suit natural

3 N ST in R’s suit

game (suit) sign-off

9.7 1 § - 3 ª

11-13 hand always bids 3 N.

Other bids are:

4 § asks for suit and possible shortness

- 4 © what

- 4 ª short ª

- 4 N no shortness

- 5 § short §

1 § - 3 ª

4 §

- 4 M clubs, short M

- 4 N clubs no shortness

- 5 § clubs, short ¨

4 ¨ asks abt extra length and/or a void

- 4 M void

- 5 m suit and void in other m

- 4 N neither-nor

- 5 M void and extra length (8)

- 5 N extra length, no void

- 6 m 8-card m and void other m

9.8 Passed hand bidding

R is limited to 10 hcp, which has some effects:

- 1 ¨/1 M/1 N identical bidding to normal, except R’s limits

- 2 § like 2 ¨ and identical continuation

9.9 Over intervention

Opps will frequently oppose 1 §, and it’s important to sort out suit lengths as opposed to strength. Bidding is mostly natural with some twists.

A consistent principle is that whenever R makes a non-forcing suit bid, O is allowed to raise one step (or pass), other bids, including NT bids, are strong. Also, whenever R shows a 4-card M, by a bid or a negative double, subsequent non-jumping minor bids imply canapé hands (at least 5-card m’s).

9.9.1 Opps double 1 §

If double shows clubs, RD is a take-out “double”, other bids are like after an overcall (non-forcing suit bids etc).

If double has a conventional meaning, e.g. showing one/two suits, bidding is in accordance with “conventional overcalls”.

However, the most common meaning of a double is for take-out (limited or not).

1 § - (X)

- RD 11+. If third hand passes, O only passes if holding a club suit. All O’s bids up to 1 N show 11-13. If third hand pulls, the situation is forcing to at least 1 N or a penalty double of Opps.

RD followed by a suit bid on the 2-level is GT. On the 1-level it could be made on a 4-card suit (forcing, since RD is forcing to at least 1 N).

If Opps bid on 2-level, 2 N is a general GF, together with a cuebid and jumps. Simple suit bids are just (cf above) GTs.

1 § - (X)

- pass neutral, O pulls after a hypothetical penalty pass unless holding clubs. Pass followed by a suit bid is balancing.

After two passes, O’s RD is SOS, and 1 X (¹N) = 11-13. 1 N is still 17-19, also if third hand bids. NT system only applies after 1 § - 1 ¨ (D).

- 1 X/2 X NF/natural. 2 X (¹ §) is preemptive and not GF vs 17+, 1 X/2 § is GF vs 17+.

- 2 N preemptive with a 2-suiter, normally mm

9.9.2 Opp’s bid 1 X

D is negative and promises the other M if the overcall is 1 or 2 M. The exceptions to this are:

· R has a GF hand that does not fulfil the requirements of other GF bids (i.e. is not short in Opp’s suit nor has good NT stoppers)

1 § - (1 X) – D

O’s simple bids up to X -1 show 11-13. 2 m promise a 5-card suit, 1 N does not promise a stopper.

If third hand competes, O is allowed to show support to other M up to the 3-level (non-jumping) with 11-13.

1 ª could be bid on a trebleton

2 ª good 11-13 with 4-card support

If third hand bids and O passes, or if O bids 1 N, and other similar sequences, R’s non-jumping bids in a minor shows a 5-card suit and normally a canapé (fighting for partscore). D followed by a Major is a natural GT.

1 § - (1 ª) – D – (2 ª)

p - (pass) – D Take-out, often 5 hearts

The only time O can compete with anything except the other M (if R makes a TO D) or support R’s M, is:

1 § - (1 ¨) – D – (2/3 ¨)

D to show 4-4 MM weak or strong

2 N 17-19, natural

cuebid 17-19 wo good stopper or strong with support

3 oM 17-19, “support” (NB 3 N from R shows a GT hand wo 4 oM)

1 § - (1 X) – new NF, but GF vs 17-19. O may raise to 2 M (3 M in competition) with 11-13. NB that all other bids, except pass, show 17+, also 1 N. In all situations the continuation is natural. NB that R does not bid canapé having shown a 5-card Major already.

If R passes the overcall, O’s bids show 17+, 1 N 17-19 (no NT system).

GAME-FORCE BIDS

R can create a GF situation in 3 ways:

· A direct cuebid to 2 X shows shortness in X

· A jump to 2 N shows a good stopper in X, but does not promise a strictly balanced hand

· D + a cuebid takes care of the rest

A direct jumping cuebid to 3 X is just stopper-asking.

9.9.3 Opps bid 2 X

Lebensohl is played, just like over an overcall over 1 N. If GF, however, R must have a stopper in opp’s suit to bid 2 N, since otherwise NT will most likely be played by the wrong declarer. Otherwise bids are identical with a cuebid showing a 5-card Major.

2 ª could be bid on a 3-card suit

2 N normal 11-13

3 m à 17+, GF

1 § - (2 ª) – D – (p)

2 N/3 © 11-13

other 17+ (NB also if 3 m!!)

A minimum 17+ opener is allowed to let the auction die, especially with no good hand for a TO D. 2 N tends to show more 19 than 17 hcp.

9.9.4 Opps bid 3 X

D is once again for take-out, but will most often be left in on 3 ª. 4 m here is forcing !!

9.9.5 Opps bid a conventional overcall (incl a conventional X)

Our D is an attempt to catch opps with cards and also a tolerance to play the suit doubled (even if it shows (an)other suit(s). Subsequent doubles are for penalties.

Suit bids are NF, a jump to 2 N has its normal GF function and suit jumps are preemptive.

The cheapest cuebid in opp’s suit is a take-out double, creating a GF situation opposite 17+.

9.9.6 Opps double after two bids

1 § - 1 ¨ (D)

11-13 always passes. Other bids show 17+, RD with a diamond suit. If the D shows diamonds, then RD shows a strong NT hand wo a diamond stopper.

1 § - 1 M (D)

11-13 passes or raises to 2 M. Other bids are strong and natural, except 2 N which still shows trump support.

If O passes, R’s subsequent m bids show 5-card suit (non-jump), D is for take-out

9.9.7 Opps overcall after two bids

1 § - 1 ¨ - (bid)

O’s D is for take-out and 1 N 17-19 (system applies, always when R has bid 1 ¨, never else).

1 § - 1 ¨ - (bid)

cuebid any 2-suiter. R makes preference or bids 2 N when O bids the lower of 2 touching.

e.g. opps bid 1 ª

3 § = § + ¨

3 ¨= ¨ + ©

3 ©= © + §

Sedan tre steg till med u-krävande händer !!!

2 N (jump) tricks and stopper(s)

1 § - 1 M – (bid)

D penalty

2 M/3 M (no jump) 11-13 (with no support O must pass when weak)

2 N (if jump) support as always

1 N 17-19, natural continuation

2 § clubs (no relay)

cuebid NT hand wo stopper

3 M 17-19

jump splinter w support, 17+

1 § - 1 M – (bid)

p - X m (non-jump) 5-card suit

D take-out

1 § - 1 N – (bid)

D penalty, could be 11-13

10. 1 ¨ opening

O does not have a balanced hand, but semi- or unbalanced. 4 ¨ + 5 § are opened 1 ¨ unless the diamonds are extremely weak and the clubs extremely strong (then 2 § with risk of losing the ¨ suit).

10.1 Responses

Natural on the 1-level. 1 N is a GF relay (see Fibonacci et al). This has consequences on other responses, e.g. 2 § which is a natural and NF response. This scheme is highly influenced by Fredin-Lindkvist’s SKROT.

- 1 N FG relay

- 2 § natural NF, 5+ § (normally 6+ if 3-card support)» 8-12 hcp, no 4-card M

- 2 ¨ 8-12 hcp, 3+card support, no 4-card M

- 2 ª 6+ suit, 4-8(9)

- 2 N (11)12(13), balanced, normally with 4-5 clubs

- 3 § GT, long suit

- 3 ¨ 0-7 (3-7), preemptive

10.1.1 1 ¨ - 1 M

O rebids naturally with 1 N as a “semi-natural” bid not limiting the range, but offloading other bids.

1 N 11-16, often short in R’s suit, never 3-card support. Over 1 © it always shows both minors. Continuation as per definition in “the Notrump Complex”.

2 § unlimited, often 4-5. Could be maximum with 3-card support for M

2 ¨ natural

2 M 3-card raise or extremely lousy cards with » (5422)

2 ª 4351 or 4360

2 N a) 3 ¨ rebid (max, long good suit) wo 3-card support for M

b) maximum & 4-card support for M

3 § maximum, 5-5 mm or better

3 ¨ maximum, good 6+ suit, 3-card support for M

3 M decent minimum with 4-card support

3 ª/4 m splinter with void

3 N solid suit

4 ¨ solid suit, Hxx in M

Standard continuations, though a rebid of ª shows (8)9-10 hcp, and R has also denied a 5-5 MM hand. 4^th suit is not GF and the bidding could die in 2 N or 3 m.

1 ¨ - 1 M

2 §

- 3 §/¨ is distributional, a good hcp GT (11-12) is made via 4^th suit (therefore not GF)

1 ¨ - 1 ª

2 ©

- 2 ª F1, at least 5 good spades

- 3 § (4^th suit) (here GF)

1 ¨ - 1 ©

2 ª

- 2 N Lebensohl as above

When O shows a 6-card suit (not 1 ¨ - 1 ª - 2 ¨)

1 ¨ - 1 ©

2 ¨

R’s 2 N is natural, but O very rarely passes. O accepts by bidding 3 N or a side-suit with shortness or makes a preference to R’s suit. O declines by rebidding the O suit.

1 ¨ - 1 M

2 N

- 3 § positive relay

- 3 ¨/M/N to play if O has the one-suiter

- 3 §

- 3 ¨ one-suiter

- 3 M M support, no shortness

- 3 N one-suiter, solid suit

- 3 other M/4 § shortness, M support

10.1.3 1 ¨ - 1 N

Continuation in “Fibonacci et al”. Note that most strong trump support hands are bid this way.

10.1.4 1 ¨ - 2 §

O passes with minimum and at least 2 clubs (unless very good diamonds) and vomits and passes with 4441.NB that R could have bid 3 § directly over 1 ¨ with maximum + a good suit as a GT!

2 ¨ neutral rebid

2 M maximum, in principle neutral but could be lack of honours in other m

2 N max, natural, possibly 4441; NF

3 § minimum

3 ¨ maximum, natural

3 M splinter, support

10.1.5 1 ¨ - 2 ¨

pass minimum

2 M extras, suit or honours

2 N natural, extras, but NF (»14-15)

3 § NF, natural, often 5 cards (if R has 3-card ¨ support he has § with him

3 ¨ push

3 M splinter, normally maximum

10.1.6 1 ¨ - 2 M

p/2 ª non-enthusiastic preference

2 N strong relay, R shows short m (or 3 M with 5-6)

3 M non-forward going

10.1.7 1 ¨ - 2 N

Model build on the possibility to stop in 3 m. R normally has clubs and good stoppers.

3 § weak, sign-off unless R happens to have 4 ¨

3 ¨ weak, sign-off

3 M acceptance, short suit

3 N acceptance, general

4 m slam-try, suit (4 § 5-5 or better)

10.1.8 1 ¨ - 3 §

Pass and 3 ¨ are O’s only weak reactions. A raise to 4 § are forcing.

10.1.9 Sliver

10.2 Passed hand bidding

Natural bidding, but O’s rebids are mostly the same (natural over 1 N, of course).

The 2 § response shows » a weak 2 with a 6-card suit, and is frequently passed out.

A raise to 2 ¨ shows 9-10 with 3-4-card support. Weaker hands are shown with:

- 7-8 3 §

- 0-6 3 ¨

The two lasts responses promise 4-card support.

2 N is reserved for R hands with 4-card support and (9)10 hcp with extra distributional values. O signs off with 3 ¨ or proceeds with shortness-showing bids.

10.3 After a take-out double

RD shows 10-13 and is forcing to the lower of 1 N, a penalty double or 2 ¨. Pass is either weak or shows 14+ (GF); the stronger alternative is followed by a penalty double or suit bids above 2 ¨ (or a cuebid or a NT bid on at least the 2-level). D if opps jump or support themselves to the 2-level is just card-showing with normally reasonably balanced cards.

1 M is a one-round force, continuation like the double had not occurred.

2 § is constructive NF, »8-10 with a 6-card suit (or a goodish 5-card suit as a lead director).

2 ¨ could be weak with, normally, 3-card support, 3 ¨ is preemptive with 0-6 and 3 § is used with » 7-9. 2 N shows 10+ with support (sign-off 3 ¨ or shortness-showing bids).

Jumps to 2 M is weak, 3-7 with a 6+card suit. If interested O bids 2 N (singleton-ask).

1 ¨ - 1 M – (D)

RD general maximum

2 M normal 3-card

3 ¨ preemtive

10.4 After an overcall

New suits are F1, D is negative (promises the other Major or notrump cards, INV+). 1 ª = 5+ suit.

2 ¨ is natural with 7-9, the jump to 3 § (over 1 M) shows 7-9 and 3 ¨ 0-6. The cuebid is at least invitational with support. 2 N is INV.

If the overcall is 2 §, D promises MM, one M and ¨ support or notrump cards INV+. 2 N is a GT. The cuebid still is INV+ with support and 3 ¨ is preemptive. Thus 2 ¨ must be used with stronger cards than usual.

1 ¨ - 1 M – (simple overcall)

D support double, 3-card support (other bids deny this)

2 M minimum, 4-card support

2 N like no intervention, but promises a stopper if 1-suited

3 ¨ like 2 N (one-suiter) wo stopper

cuebid generally stopper-asking

1 ¨ - 1 N – (simple overcall)

D take-out

2 N good-bad, either a “fighting” 3 § or 3 ¨ bid or GF

3 §/¨ (non-jump) still shows values for a jump, cf good-bad

10 hcp hands are only opened with either an abundance of intermediates or with an interesting distribution.

11.1 Responses

- 1 ª natural F1

- 1 N semiforcing, but could never contain trump support

- 2 § GF relay (see chapter “Fibonacci et al” – ch 6)

b) a (good) limit raise with 3-card support

c) a 7-9 point 4-card support raise

- 2 M constructive single raise with exactly 3-card support

- 2 ª 3-7 with 6+ suit

- 2 N at least invitational, at least 4-card support

- 3 §/¨ GT (like 2 m + 3 m in standard) with long suit

- 3 M 4-6 (vul), 0-6 (non-vul) 4+card support raise

- 3 ª/N any void with 11-13 hcp and support

- dbl jump void with 8-10 (glove finder) or 14+ (will often proceed over a sign-off

- 4 M preemptive, at most one key-card

11.1.2 1 M – 2 M

The constructive single raise is made with 8-10(11 boring) hcp and exactly 3-card support (possibly, if minimum, an unexciting 4333 with 4-card M). The bid is at the same time encouraging (hcp count) as discouraging (small number of trumps).

O bids negative GT bids or 2 N wo any shortness. 3 M is preemptive.

11.1.3 1 M – 2 “below”

O assumes the weak variety. If he bids other than 2 M the partnership will practically always go to game if R has any other hand-type.

1 M - 2 bl

2 M to play, normally 5 trumps

- new shortness, 7-9 hand

- 2 N limit raise

- 3 M 7-9 hand wo shortness

3 M preemptive

1 M – 2 bl

- 2 ab enquiry

- new shortness (there may be slam…)

- 4 M maximum 7-9 or any limit hand

- 3 N flat limit hand

- 3 M weak hand

1 M – 2 bl

new negative GT vs weak hand

- new shortness, 7-9

- 3 M weak hand non-accept

- 4 M weak hand accept, 7-9 wo shortness, limit raise where shortness is not encouraging3

- 3 N limit raise where shortness was suitable

If opponents interfere O bids assuming a weak hand. A new suit is positive and 3 M is preemptive. D is a general GT.

If O passes, R’s subsequent 3 M shows the 7-9 hand, X shows a limit hand. A new suit, if there is time, shows 7-9 with shortness. If only one suit remains to be bid it shows any shortness.

Should Opp double 2 bl XX shows the suit, pass minimum wo good suit and 2 M minimum with good suit; other bids as wo the double.

11.1.4 1 M – 2 N

A module is played in which rebids from 3 © can be bid directly (maximum) or after a 3 § (minimum) – 3 ¨ start with the same distributional meaning.

NB! When R bids 2 N he should know what to do over a (very common) 3 § reply (for ethical reasons).

1 © - 2 N

3 § minimum, denies a void

- 3 ¨ possible re-route; all bids after 3 § - 3 ¨ have the same meaning as a direct bid, but show minimum. R can bid 3 ¨ even with shortness of his own if he considers O’s distribution more interesting than his own.

- 3 ª short ª, slam interest

- 3 N short ¨, slam interest

- 4 § short §, slam interest

- 4 ¨ Baby Blackwood

3 ¨ any void, any strength

- 3 © relay

- 3 ª maximum with either m void (R asks with 3 N)

- 3 N maximum, spade void

- 4 m minimum, void

- 3 ª relay

- 3 N/4 m singleton ª/m

3 ª 5 §

- 3 N asks for singleton (NGF)

3 N no singleton or void

4 §/¨ 5 ¨ and shortness §/ª (NGF)

4 © 5611

1 ª - 2 N

(3 §- 3 ¨)

3 §

- 3 © short ©

- 3 ª attempt at sign-off

- 3 N short ¨

- 4 § short §

- 4 ¨ Baby Blackwood

3 ¨ any void, any strength

- 3 © relay

- 3 ª maximum with either m void (R asks with 3 N)

- 3 ª relay

- 4 m singleton

3 ª 5 §, maximum

- 3 N asks for singleton (NGF)

3 N no singleton, maximum

If opponents intervene over 2 N, O’s pass shows minimum without shortness in Opps suit. The nearest rebid in trumps shows minimum and shortness in opp’s suit. If the overcall is above 3 M he is allowed to bid 4 M also with a minimum hand.

If the overcall is below 3 N, D is a penalty double and 3 N shows extras without shortness. A bid in a side-suit shows extras and shortness in the suit bid. D of an overcall above or at 3 N shows maximum without a biddable singleton.

11.1.5 Sliver

Void-showing jumps are divided into 3 categories:

· weakish hands where slams depend on a veritable “glove” à shown with a sliver

· a good hand which normally proceeds should O sign off à shown with a sliver

· a hand between the two mentioned above à shown with a splinter

The sliver is a double jump to the suit nearest ab O’s suit.

O can sign off if no void is interesting, otherwise he asks for the void with the relay.

· With a long spade suit, 1 ª is chosen if the hand has 8/9+ hcp (otherwise normally a jump to 2 ª)

· With GF strength O can choose the 2 § way even with 4 ª

· When holding 3-card © support R normally chooses 2 ¨ or 2 © with 4 or even 5 spades; with strength enough to INV he normally prefers 1 ª to 2 ¨

O rebids naturally, but can use 2 m with maximum with (3523/3532). With 2533 1 N is chosen (denies 3-card ª support).

“SKROT-specific” bids are used, of course:

3 ª shows a decent minimum hand with 4-card support

2 ª shows minimum and 3-card support, possibly a lousy (4522)

3 m shows maximum and at least 5-5

2 N shows maximum and

b) 4-card spade support without a void

4 m void splinters

4 © 3-6/7

4 ª gambling with normally at leat 4-6

1 © - 1 ª

2 N

- 3 § positive relay

- 3 © a)

- 3 ª 4522

- 3 N a), solid suit

- new b), shortness

11.1.7 1 ª - 2 ¨

R bids 2 ¨ only with specified hand-types:

O assumes the weak to INV heart hand and bids 2 © or 2 ª if uninterested (2 © promises no © acceptance and 2 ª promises only a good 6+ suit and disgust towards hearts).

1 ª - 2 ¨

2 ©

- 2 ª NT INV w Hx in ª (NF)

- 2 N NT INV (possibly 15 MM)

- 3 m 5-5, INV

- 3 © good INV

1 ª - 2 ¨

2 ª

- 2 N INV, F1

- 3 m 5-5

- 3 ª/4 m splinter with ST

2 N F1, balanced max or support; GF

- 3 m 5-5

- 3 N balanced GT hand

- 4 © GT hand

3 m strong, at least 5-5

3 ª semisolid suit, maximum

4 m splinter

The bidding normally ends here. A raise to 3 ª is PRE. O’s simple rebids do not imply interest for anything else than an escape from 2 ª, with the exception for 2 N which is a GT with some sort of interest for ª.. R bids a short suit (including 3 ©), 3 ª with bad cards, 3 N with HHxxxx, jumps with a void or bids 4 ª.

11.1.9 1 M – 1 N

Transfer structure. O passes with 11-12(13) (s)balanced or sometimes 4-5 MM – 13/31 mm. With all other hands he must bid. A transfer structure is used !

R bids towards a thought 11-14 hand; with 15-16 it is O’s responsibility to move in a third bidding round.

R’s minor-suit hands not worth a GF use 1 N with a weak hand and a direct jump to 3 m with a GT hand.

1 © - 1 N

2 § a) 4+card ¨

b) balanced hands or “awkward” hands

- 2 ª good ¨ “support”, »10-11 hcp

- 2 N 11-12 hcp, natural

- 3 §/¨ long suit, maximum for a non-GT hand

1 © - 1 N

- 2 N notrumpish 12 hcp

- 2 ª maximum, § support

- 3 § not ambitious

2 ª 5-6, minimum

3 m maximum, 5-5

3 ª 5-6, maximum

3 N gambling, solid suit

1 ª - 1 N

2 § a) 4+ ¨

b) balanced (no awkward hands after 1 ª opening)

2 ¨ 4+ ©

2 © 6+ ª

2 ª 4+ §, minimum

2 N 4 § and 5 ª, maximum

3 ª good suit, maximum

3 N gambling, solid suit

11.2 General principles – passed hand bidding/opposed bidding

In order to facilitate learning there are some general principles to streamline bidding, especially with trump support:

· Great influence by “the law” – i.e. here to separate 3-card from 4-card raises

· Transfer bids are used by a passed hand or after a double – never after an overcall

· A jump to 3 M is always preemptive

· The 2 N module is played intact

· Jumps to show 4-card support and intermediate strength are ranged in order of strength, the nearer you get to 3 M, the worse your cards

11.3 Passed hand bidding

1 © - 1 ª Normal, also the continuation. R’s second-round 2 § is natural, however. O may occasionally pass with a (sub-)minimal hand with 3-card support.

1 M – 1 N Non-forcing, O passes more liberally than normally, knowing R’s limits. If he continues, he uses the same transfers like without the initial pass. The 2 § rebid always shows ¨ or a maximum NT (also after 1 © - 1 N) so R’s jump to 3 ¨ merely shows ¨ “support” and maximum.

2 § Transfer, showing ¨. O bids 2 ¨ unless he is strong or detests diamonds, in the latter case he should offer a viable alternative. A rebid of 2 M does not promise any strength, nor does 2 © if opening bid was 1 ª. Higher rebids show distribution and strength, and 2 N indicates a maximum balanced hand or support (3 ¨ only shows some support, not strength). R’s continuation in a new suit is F1, a preference to M shows something like Hx and a maximum pass.

2 ¨ (1 ª) like 2 § above

transfer to M 3-card support and a very good maximum pass; should be bid with GT values, which (given the initial pass) means some distribution (short suit and/or good 5-card side suit). O continues lika over 1 M – 2 M.

single raise normal single raise, non-constructive

higher responses 4-card support (see d:o)

11.4 Over a take-out double

- RD 10-13, either without support or 11-12 with 3-card support; forcing to the lower of 1 N, penalty double or 2 M.

- pass (alertable) weak or GF. Subsequent D or suit bids above 2 N are GF. Doubles are for penalty.

- 1 ª F1, continuation like without intervention

- 1 N/2 §(/2 ¨) transfer to 2 §/¨ (see passed hand bidding)

- transfer to M like passed hand bidding, but is weaker (like a constructive single raise) or GF (13+)

- single raise can be very weak

- higher responses 4-card support (see d:o)

11.5 Over an overcall

- D negative; if followed by a new suit: fighting for partscore. O rebids naturally, 1 N is more limited (11-14); 2 N maximum. If overcall was 2 m, D promises 4 cards in the other Major or a NT hand.

- new suit F1. 2 N and rebid in new suit (unless O reverses) is NF. New suits from both are forcing.

- cuebid 3-card support with at least GT values. O bids quantitatively vs game or natural bids if non-jumping (jumps are splinters)

- jumps 4-card support (see d:o)

- jump in overcall void and trump support

suit

- cuebid over jump a good raise to game (to separate from a light jump to game

11.6 4-card support bids

- 2 N always Stenberg; in two cases it can be made on only 3 cards; same module as in normal offensive bidding.

The more bids R has at his disposal, the more precise can he be about his hand.

double / passed hand

1 ª - 3 § 7-9, any singleton

- 3 ¨ wants to game opposite short ¨

- 3 © short ©

- 3 ª short §

- 4 ª short ¨

- 3 ª short ¨

1 © - 3 §

1 ª - 3 ¨ 8-9, almost worth 2 N, no short suit

1 © - 3 ¨

cheapest overcall

1 © - (1 ª)

1 ª - (2 §)

- cuebid GT(+), 3-card support

- next bid 7-9, any singleton

- closest to M 7-9, no singleton

The reason is to ease O’s decision – at least he knows R’s type of shape…

middle overcall

1 © - (2 §)

1 ª - (2 ¨)

- cuebid GT (+), 3-card support

- jump below 3 M 7-9, good hand

In this case R may choose to temporise with 2 M with a poor 4-card support hand

maximum overcall

1 © - (2 ¨)

1 ª - (2 ©)

Not much space. Here we do the following:

- 2 N could be made with a good GT with 3-card support

- cuebid 7-9, good hand

11.7 Other interference

Support double, i.e double shows 3-card support. Other bids normally deny this. 2 N is two-way, but promises a stopper if one-suited.

RD shows maximum, not support RD. 2 N always shows support and maximum. A jump, in © or either minor, is preemptive with distribution. 3 © does not promise anything in ª.

11.7.3 1 M – 1 N (D)

No transfers. RD shows maximum.

11.7.4 1 M – 1 N (overcall)

D is for take-out. Pass may be trap.

2 N is “good-bad” with either a weak/distributional hand with a lower suit than the overcall or GF. A voluntary bid in a suit that could have been bid via 2 N shows the same thing as a jump.

A cuebid is primarily stopper-asking with a long suit.

11.7.5 1 M – p (D)

RD shows maximum in general. A jump to 2 N shows tricks. 1 N shows a weak 2-suiter, while 2 in a lower suit shows good cards as well as two good suits.

11.7.6 1 M – p (overcall)

1 N (if possible) shows the same thing as over a double. 2 N, jumping or not, shows tricks.

11.7.7 1 M – (2 N)

- 3 ¨ forcing with ª (- “ - 1 ª)

- 3 M NF (constructive) natural (if other Major)

competitive raise (if O’s Major)

11.7.8 1 M – (2 M)

If both suits are known:

- 2 N as usual

- 3 M competitive raise

- cheapest cue forcing with 4^th suit

- farthest cue at least GT with 3-card support

- 4^th suit NF (constructive), natural

- new suit NF (constructive)

- 2 N as usual

- their suit at least GT with 3-card support

- D may be forcing hand with new suit

1. FOREWORD

1.1 Terminology

O Opener

2. general principles

3. table of opening bids

Bid: Point range: Significance:

4. slam bidding

4.1.2.1 INTERVENTIONS 5 § - 5 ©

4.4 4-Ace Blackwood 5 §

4.6 Exclusion Blackwood (EBW)

4.6.3 on 1 ¨/©/ª/2 §

4.8.2 free 5 M

5. Short-suit bidding

6. doubles

6.7 Renno double

7. fibonacci relays

7.1 Principles

7.2 Direct responses

7.2.1 4-card ¨ scheme

7.2.2 2-suiter scheme

7.2.3 1-suiter scheme

7.2.4 5332 or 5440

7.2.5 Exceptions to scheme

7.2.5.1 Impossible distributions

7.2.5.2 Switch to natural bidding

7.2.5.3 Opponents double the relay

7.3 SLABs and DCBs

7.3.1 Slam-Asking Bids (SLAB)

7.3.1.1 Continuation after the SLAB minimum response (1 step)

7.3.1.2 Continuation after SLAB responses indicating # of key-cards

7.3.2 End signal and jumps to game

7.3.3 Denial cue-bids (Variable cue-bids) – “DCBs”

8. notrump complex

8.1 1 N

· opener in 1st – 2nd seat (unpassed hand)

· overcall in 2nd seat over 1 § or 1 ¨ (unpassed hand)

8.1.1.1 1 N – 2 §

8.1.1.2 1 N – 2 ¨

8.1.1.3 1 N – 2 ©

8.1.1.4 RE-TRANSFERS

8.1.1.5 QUANTITATIVE 4 N SEQUENCES

8.1.2 1 N - 2 ª

8.1.4 1 N – 3 §/¨

8.1.5 1 N – 3 ª

8.1.6 1 N – 4 §/¨

8.2 SIMPLIFIED 1 N BIDDING

8.3 1 § - 1 M – 1 X

8.3.1 1 § - 1 M – 1 N – 2 §

8.3.2 1 § - 1 M – 1 N – 2 ¨

8.3.3 1 § - 1 M – 1 N – 2 M

8.3.4 1 § - 1 © - 1 ª

8.4 1 re – 1 M – 1 N

8.5 2 N bidding

2 N 20-21

1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 ¨ - 2 M – 2 N 22-23

2 ¨ - 2 M – 2 N 24-25

8.5.1 2 N – 3 §

8.5.2 2 N – 3 ¨

8.5.3 2 N - 3 ©

8.5.4 2 N – 3 ª

8.5.5 2 N – 4 X

8.5.6 2 N bidding with weaker O

8.6 3 N Bidding

1 § - 3 N (14-16)

1 § - 1 ¨

2 § - 2 ¨

3 N (26-27)

8.7 Interference

9. 1 § bidding

9.1 Responses

9.1.1 1 § - 1 ¨

9.1.1.1 1 § - 1 ¨ - 1 M

9.1.1.3 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 §

9.1.1.4 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 ¨

9.1.1.5 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 M

9.1.1.6 1 § - 1 ¨ - 2 N

9.1.1.7 1 § - 1 ¨ - 3 m

9.1.1.8 1 § - 1 ¨ - 3 M

9.2 1 § - NF responses (natural)

9.2.1 1 § - 1 N

· overcall in 2^nd seat over 1 § or 1 ¨ (unpassed hand)