Why Nine Never?
Everyone knows the adage “eight ever, nine never” which refers to finessing for the queen of trumps. I recently received this question about it, which is answered below. Why do… Read more »
Author Archives: Kitty Cooper
Splinter Bids
I. Controls plus Tricks can produce slam on less than 33 points Point count is not very accurate with unbalanced hands that have a good fit. Tricks and controls, or… Read more »
Major Suit Raises – JACOBY 2NT
I. Responding to partner’s one of a major opening When partner opens one of a major and you have three cards or more in support then you know you have… Read more »
Slam Bidding Basics over Suit Openers
I SLAM TRIES IN SUIT AUCTIONS: CUE-BIDDING Point count is not very accurate with unbalanced hands that have a fit. Tricks and controls, or controls with distribution and lots of… Read more »
Slam Bidding Basics Over Notrump Openers
I. WHEN PARTNER OPENS 1NT- ADD THE POINTS UP It takes 33 points to make a small slam and 37 to make a grand. Do you have them? When you… Read more »
BALANCING at the two level
When the opponents have stopped in a part score at the one or two level, should you pass it out or bid? The answer depends on what contract they have… Read more »
Balancing at the One Level
I. Definition of the Word BALANCING The term balancing means taking a bid other than Pass after two preceding passes. In other words, balancing is an attempt to prevent the… Read more »
Competing over the Opponents 1NT
I. Competing over 1NT only requires weak 2-bid strength What are your side’s chances of making a game when an opponent opens 1NT? Well, there are only 24 high card… Read more »
Does a Negative Double of 1D show both majors?
Another recent question was … Does a negative double of 1♦ after partner opens 1 show both majors? The standard treatment is that a negative double of 1♦ after partner… Read more »
Preempting
One of the most effective strategies in competitive bidding is the preempt. When you have a long strong suit and not many points you can start the bidding at the… Read more »