ETM Victory
Everything That Matters (ETM) Victory
A Weak Notrump System
© 2002, 2008 Glen Ashton BridgeMatters
Release 2.3i
Everything That Matters Victory is a bridge bidding system developed primarily for playing in general team competitions, such as the popular Swiss team events. These events often use Victory Point scoring (where the result of a match between two teams is assigned a victory point award). The system implements the weak notrump opening in a highly precise method that provides maximum knowledge of the partnership potential on each deal. It is a system with many common sense arrangements, though arrangements that one might not find used elsewhere.
Key to the system is the two point ranges used for balanced hands from 15 to 26 (with one partial exception), and a slightly tighter range for opening one trump. The two point ranges allow for accurate decisions by responder on how high to play the hand, and employ many game forcing sequences to find the right contract. The tighter range for opening one notrump means that purely quantitative game invites can be replaced by sequences that find the best game spot. In addition the active upgrade feature of the system upgrades balanced hands with playing value so that good games or slams might be reached even though there is slightly less points than one might normally have to have.
Bidding is made easier in the system by bidding balanced hands in one way, unbalanced hands another way. Thus responder knows the nature of opener’s hand and can evaluate properly towards the best contract.
ETM Victory is high definition system so it does take time to learn and play. For example, there are many times that a transfer bid is employed to show a suit, instead of just bidding it, to the point that sometimes ETM is nicknamed Every Transfer Method. However the system is designed to for maximum effectiveness, and it will provide substantial advantages to a partnership during a day’s competition. These advantages will mean better results for the partnership and the teams they play on. ETM Victory is the system for winners.
Table of Contents
ETM Victory Introduction and Notes..................................................................................................... 1
Introduction......................................................................................................................................................... 1
Release Notes........................................................................................................................................................ 3
Contact Information...................................................................................................................................... 3
Definitions & Format....................................................................................................................................... 3
Legality and Alerts.......................................................................................................................................... 3
Abbreviations....................................................................................................................................................... 4
Bidding Sequences............................................................................................................................................... 4
Hand Shape Descriptions................................................................................................................................ 4
ETM Victory Style and Notes....................................................................................................................... 5
General Rules........................................................................................................................................................ 7
System Overview.................................................................................................................................................... 8
ETM Victory - One and Two Level Openings.......................................................................................... 8
ETM Multi Victory and ETM Total Victory - Introduction...................................................... 9
ETM Total Victory - One and Two Level Openings......................................................................... 10
Opening Bids and Responses......................................................................................................................... 15
Opening Bid Overview and Notrump Ladder..................................................................................... 15
One Club Opening, Hybrid: Clubs or Balanced 14/15-18 (14/15-16 with
Clubs)..................... 17
ETM Multi Victory/Total Victory Changes – Minor Suit Openings.................................... 20
ETM – Multi Victory- Useful Transfers (UT)..................................................................................... 28
ETM Gadget – A Relay for ETM Total Victory................................................................................. 30
One Diamond Opening, Natural, Balanced Only If 14/15-16...................................................... 32
Common Bidding after Minor Suit Opening...................................................................................... 36
1XYZ............................................................................................................................................................................ 38
Major Suit Openings - One Heart or One Spade Natural.......................................................... 40
Major Suit Openings - One Heart or One Spade Natural.......................................................... 40
Major Suit Openings – 2NT Response Structure.............................................................................. 41
Major Suit Openings - 2/1 Approach........................................................................................................ 43
Major Suit Openings - 1NT Forcing Approach................................................................................... 44
Major Suit Openings – Total Victory - Cheapest Bid Asking.................................................. 45
Major Suit Openings – Total Victory – Improving 1♥-1♠............................................................ 47
ETM Total Victory – Total 2/1................................................................................................................... 50
One Notrump Opening – Weak Notrump – 11/12-14 Balanced.................................................... 63
One Notrump In Competition...................................................................................................................... 75
Two Club Opening: Strong – 18/19-20 or 22/23+ Balanced or GF no 5+ card
major........ 82
Two Diamond Opening, Game Forcing Control Ask when no Multi.................................. 85
Two Hearts/Two Spades Openings, Weak Two Bids when no Multi................................... 86
Two Diamond Multi Opening – When Multi Allowed................................................................. 88
Two Diamond Multi in Competition – When Multi Allowed................................................. 90
Two Diamonds Multi – Fourth Seat..................................................................................................... 91
Goldilocks Two Bids – Two Hearts/Two Spades 10-13 When Multi Used.......................... 92
Two Notrump Opening – 20/21-22 Balanced......................................................................................... 94
Three Level and Higher Opening Bids..................................................................................................... 97
Competitive Bidding......................................................................................................................................... 98
Competitive Bidding After Our Suit Opening, Particular Cases........................................ 102
Choice of Strain Cuebids............................................................................................................................ 113
ETM Total Victory Swaps and Transfers....................................................................................... 115
Defenses................................................................................................................................................................ 121
Junkyard Defense vs. Flannery, Roman etc................................................................................... 126
Rumble vs Big One Club................................................................................................................................. 127
Slam Conventions.......................................................................................................................................... 129
Leads & Defensive Carding........................................................................................................................ 133
Release 2.3i
- First Internet release.
- Minor bug fixes.
For further information on these notes please contact:
BridgeMatters
K2G 5Y5
(613)-277-1721
High card points are given in ranges, such as 10-12. The ranges are not absolutes that must be followed - the bidder is expected to make any adjustments due to hand characteristics – see Over-Active Evaluation below.
Some ranges are given in the format nn/yy-zz or nn/xx/yy-zz. In this case it means that yy-zz is the normal range, but some hands of nn or xx points are included as well. For example 8/9/10-13 means the normal range is 10-13, but some 8 or 9 point hands are included depending on hand type.
Useful: ETM defines the “useful” range as decent constructive to game invitational (limit) values. It is a range just a bit wider and stronger than “constructive”. It is usually made with a bid that gives room for partner to make a game try opposite it to find out whether it is good “useful” or not so good “useful”.
ETM Victory is designed to be ACBL GCC (General Convention Chart) legal. There is no need to pre-alert the system, just when bidding one needs to alert all bids with special meanings. ETM Multi-Victory and ETM Total Victory is mid-chart legal (though it is necessary to have defenses handy for the opponents). It is necessary to pre-alert the Multi 2♦ opening.
© 2002, 2008 Glen Ashton BridgeMatters
|
Code |
Meaning |
|
C |
Constructive |
|
F |
Forcing |
|
GF |
Game Forcing |
|
GI |
Game Invitational |
|
HCP |
High Card Points |
|
L |
Limit (L+ = limit or better) |
|
M |
Major |
|
M |
Minor |
|
NF |
Not forcing |
|
NT |
Notrump |
|
|
|
|
Ph |
Passed Hand |
|
R |
Reverse |
|
Uph |
Unpassed Hand |
|
U |
Useful – see definitions |
|
W |
Weak |
|
X, Y, Z |
Any Strain |
|
[text] |
Name of Conventional Call, Treatment, or Sub-Section Title |
When bidding sequences are given, the end of a round of bidding is shown by a semi-colon, not the usual hypen. For example if two people were bidding (the opponents passing), it looks like this:
bid-bid;bid-bid;bid-bid.
If the calls of all four people were shown, it looks like this:
call-call-call-call;call-call-call-call;call-call-call-call
For hand shapes, normally the format is N-N-N-N, where N is the length of each suit. If the lengths are not in descending order, that it is an exact shape. For example 3-4-3-3 is an exactly hand shape, since the lengths are not in descending order. When the lengths are in descending order, the word ‘exactly’ will be included when the shape is exact (so 4-3-3-3 means any suit could be the four card suit, while ‘4-3-3-3 exactly’ means four spades), or the equal sign will be used instead of the hyphen (so 4=3=3=3 is an exact shape).
ETM Victory recommends using “Active Upgrade”, where hands are often updated when the playing value of the hand is more than what is usually expected. Factors considered in making this upgrade are usually length in a suit or suits, good controls, and high spot cards in the long suits.
For balanced hands, ETM Victory asks that opener add a point if holding a five card suit, unless the suit is poor. So if holding Q8xxx or Kxxxx or better five card suit, add a point to the hand. If no five card suit, add a point if two four card suits and either great controls (the hand is almost all aces and kings), or good controls and tens found in the four card suits. These active upgrades are frequent for balanced hands, so the system states balanced ranges in the format nn/yy-zz, where nn is one point less than yy and represents hands that can be upgraded to yy. For example a 1NT rebid can be 14/15-16, where many 14 counts are upgraded to 15. When informing the opponents of the range, include the lower number so that opponents know the lower number is quite possible – thus announce that the weak notrump opening is “11 to 14”, or tell them it is “a good 11 to an okay 14.”
ETM Victory does not usually downgrade hands but there is one exception. With 4-3-3-3 shape and 12 points without great controls (i.e. not rich in aces and kings), never open the bidding, as this hand is often better served by being on defense.
Here is a table of when to use active upgrades sometimes and more often:
|
Range |
Bid
by |
When
to Upgrade |
|
11/12-14 |
1NT opening |
Upgrade often with 5 card suit, but very rarely upgrade otherwise since 4-4-3-2 11 counts not great playing value. |
|
14/15-16 |
1♦ opening then 1NT or 1♣ opening if exactly 2♦s |
Upgrade always with 5 card suit. Upgrade with any 4‑4‑3‑2 shape that has at least one 4 card major, good controls and a hand that would not want to miss game with a 4-4 major fit when responder has a decent 10 count (so opening 1NT would miss the 4-4 major game). |
|
16/17-18 |
1♣ opening then 1NT |
Upgrade always with 5 card suit. Upgrade with great controls and 4-4-3-2 shape. Upgrade with good tenaces that can be protected by transfer sequences over 1♣ opening. |
|
18/19-20 |
2♣ opening |
Upgrade often with 5 card suit. Rarely upgrade otherwise to avoid playing in 2NT when responder is very weak. |
|
20/21-22 |
2NT |
Upgrade often with 5 card suit but rarely upgrade otherwise so can use 2♣ opening to find major fit. |
ETM Victory does not use quantitative game invites opposite balanced hands, as these are not that effective since opener can only evaluate on point count, not location of high cards. Instead responder is expected to bid game when game will be possible, and is given the tools to find the right game contract to play in. Sometimes a poor game contract will be reached, but the opponents will be under pressure to find the defense to beat it. For example, ETM Victory recommends at IMPs that all 11 counts, not 4-3-3-3, bid game when vulnerable opposite the 1NT 11/12-14 opening. This will sometimes mean a 23 or even a 22 point game will be reached. However with the points evenly distributed between the two hands, declarer will be able to continually lead towards honors to set up tricks. In addition if only holding a 11 count, opener should have a five card or longer suit that can be used as a source of tricks and to apply pressure on the opponents to make discards.
ETM Victory requires that two hand types be treated as balanced if conditions are met. First, a 5-4-2-2 hand is treated as balanced if the five-card suit is a minor, and both doubletons are Qx or better. Second, a 6-3-2-2 hand may be treated as balanced if the six-card suit is a minor, and both doubletons are Qx or better, and a rebid will not be a problem. This treatment means that opener is significantly unbalanced when a minor suit is opened and notrump is not rebid, and this assists responder in properly evaluating the hand’s potential.
ETM Victory requires balanced hands that open the bidding either open notrump or rebid notrump (or raise partner). Except for raising partner, the only exception is that in competitive bidding opener, having opened a suit bid with a balanced hand, can choose not to rebid notrump if the opponent’s bidding reveals that notrump would be an awful contract. In general though if opener makes a suit opening bid and rebids a suit, then an unbalanced hand is shown.
ETM Victory is designed so that a shapely hand opposite a balanced hand will describe the shape, instead of asking questions of partner. The shape to be shown is both the one or two longest suits, and then after that the short suit. If a one-suiter hand, after showing the long suit, next the short suit will be shown. If a two or three suiter hand, often the two long suits will be shown, then the third bid to describe shape will show the shortness. To assist in providing room to show shape, ETM Victory employs many transfers. For example 1NT(11/12-14)-2♥(transfer to ♠s);2♠-2NT(transfer to ♣s);3♣-3♦(short ♦s). This shape showing bid opposite balance hands provides very accurate placement of game and slam contracts. So when partner shows a balanced hand and you have an unbalanced hand with enough values for game then shape out!
ETM Victory uses a keycard asking bid called Optional RKCB, which is abbreviated ORB. RKCB stands for Roman KeyCard Blackwood, an Ace asking method which includes the King of the trump suit. ORB, or Optional Roman Blackwood, has a unique first step, which declines to answer the keycard ask. Usually it shows either no fit for the trump suit, or if a fit was already promised, then a poor minimum hand, relative to the bidding so far. Over this bid, partner can still use normal RKCB to insist on an answer. Further details on ORB are found in the slam conventions section.
ETM Victory is a MAFIA system – Majors Always First In Answering. This means that in responding to an opening bid, one bids a four card or longer major first even with a longer minor. In addition, ETM Multi Victory and Total Victory introduce methods that focus even more on the majors.
[General Notes]
- After suit opening and 2NT GI bid by responder at some point, return to opener’s lower ranking suit is NF, all other bids are forcing.
- Fourth Suit Forcing as an artificial force by an unpassed hand.
- By ph, Fourth Suit is natural/semi natural, intended as forcing but does not promise rebid.
- 4NT is takeout if non-jump bid over opponents bid and fit not established.
- Reopening jump overcall is intermediate, too strong for reopening suit bid but not wanting to double first.
- 3rd seat openers not to be much weaker than 1st opener, with bad hand bid on two+ level or pass.
- Fast arrival is a picture bid, values in suit(s) already bid, not much else.
- Any below game jump raise of an already bid suit is invitational unless GF already established.
- Jump shifts by opener are game forcing.
[Forcing Pass]
When a forcing pass is made it means partner must not pass but must either double or take some other action if the next opponent does not bid. Forcing passes can be made when partner makes a forcing bid and opponents intervene; then passes are forcing if at or below the level forced to. If partner shows support for suit (or if not support has big hand), then the level forced to is the cheapest bid in partnership’s suit. Once a fit is implied and the cheapest bid in the partnership’s suit is still available, the weakest bid is not pass but the cheapest bid in the partnership’s suit. However the pass is not forcing if the hand making the pass is limited. Also, forcing passes are not set up if game was bid but without room to show stronger hand by cuebidding etc.
Examples:
1♠-Pass-2♦-4♥;Pass: Forcing, since 2¨ forced to game or the opponents playing doubled contract.
1¨-1♠-Double-2♦;2♥-Pass: As the weakest bid would be 2♠, pass shows something here since the 2♦ cuebid is forcing to 2♠.
1¨-1♥-Double-2♦;2♠-Pass: The cuebid only forced to 2♥, so pass says nothing.
1♥-1♠-2♠-3♣;Pass: The cuebid forced to 3♥, so pass shows something here, and is forcing since opener’s hand is unlimited.
1♥-1♠-2♠-3♠;Pass: The cuebid only forced to 3♥ so the pass here says nothing.
1♥-2♠-3♠-4♠;Pass: The 3♠ cuebid forced to game, so pass is forcing here.
1♥-3♠-4♥-4♠;Pass: The 4♥ bid may just be to play, so pass is NF.
[Showing Shortness]
The Victory style when showing shortness is that bids show shortness in the suit bid when possible.
[Transfers Off When Natural Rebid]
The Multi Victory and Total Victory systems provide for extended use of transfers. However transfers are almost never on when opener or overcaller makes a natural suit rebid in a new suit or in the opened/overcalled suit. The only time transfers are on is when ETM Gadget is used, a bid used by responder after opener opens a minor, responder shows a major, and opener rebids on the two level, but not a reverse or a raise.
1♣ is a hybrid opening and it shows either a natural unbalanced club opening 11-22 or a balanced hand with 14/15-16 and 3+♣s & exactly two ¨s, or a balanced hand (e.g. with at least 2♣s) with 16/17-18, can have a five card major. After 1♣, responses can be light, one level responses natural, 1NT shows 11+ balanced or semi-balanced, forcing, can have a four card major if GF values. Two level responses are special, 2♣ is game forcing with both majors, 2¨ and 2♥ are game forcing transfers to the next major with six or longer in the suit. 2♠ is a limit raise or better in ♣s and often unbalanced, 2NT is a limit raise in ♣s but balanced with spread out values, 3♣ is a constructive raise in ♣s. 3♦ is to play opposite balanced 14/15-18. 3♥ or 3♠ is natural and GI based on long suit, not points. 3NT is 13-15. 4§ is preemptive, and 4♥ or 4♠ is to play.
1¨ opening is a natural opening, 11-22 unbalanced or 15-16 balanced with 3+¨s and may have longer ♣s but no five card major. After 1¨, major suit responses natural, 2♣ shows 9+ points and 3+♣s with perhaps longer ¨s, 2♦ and 2♥ are game forcing transfers to the next major with six or longer in the suit, 2♠ is a limit raise or better in ♦s, 2NT is a limit raise in ♦s but balanced with spread out values, 3♣ is to play opposite balanced 14/15-16 with 6+§s. 3¨ is to play, up to constructive values. 3♥ or 3♠ is GI based on long suit, not points. Notrump replies: 1NT: 4/5-8, 3NT: 13-15, with 9-12 bid 2♣ first then pass 2¨ or bid 2NT or raise 2NT rebid to 3NT.
1♥ or 1♠ openings are natural
openings with 10/11-22. Semi-forcing 1NT response.
2/1 game forcing. 2NT is limit raise or better with 4 or longer
in the M. Jump shifts are fit showing except for the cheapest
jump shift which shows 4 trumps & constructive values, and the jump shift
just below 3M shows a fit showing
jump in the cheapest jump shift suit. 3M is semi-preemptive. 3OM
is natural GI but if 3♠ based on very long suit only, not points. 3NT shows support & singleton/void in
1NT opening is 11/12-14, can have a five
card major if three cards in other major and not 14. Not 4-3-3-3 if 11-12. 2♣ is Stayman with 2♥ rebid
non-forcing, 2♠ invitational, and 3♣ transfer to ♦s, and 3♦
showing ♣s. 2♦ and 2♥
are Jacoby transfers but 2♦ can also be used like Forcing Stayman so it
is called Jacoby Stayman (JS). Over the
Jacoby transfers, which are never GI, if opener bids 2M, then 2NT on up are all transfer
bids. 2♠ response to 1NT is either
GI with 5♥s & less than 4♠s, or 4♠s & singleton
♥ & 4-4/5-4/4-5 in minors GF+, or 4♠s & 5+♥s GF that
wants to show shortness. 2NT is a
transfer to ♣s. 3♣ is a
transfer to ♦s. 3♦ shows GF
with singleton/void in one major, 3 in
2♣ opening is strong, either 18/19-20 balanced or 22/23 balanced, or a GF without a five card major. Asks for a four card or longer major. After 2♣, 2♦ shows 4+♥s with perhaps longer second suit, 2♥ shows 4+♠s with perhaps longer minor. 2♠ shows no four card major. 2NT is 0 point hand with no four card major. 3m is very weak hand with long minor. 3M shows a six card or longer major with at most one loser in the major.
2♦ opening is strong, either a game force with a five card or longer major, or a game force with a rebid plan. Responses are controls: 2♥: 0-1 controls (A=2 control, K=1), 2♠: 2 controls, 2NT: 3 controls, 3♣: 4 controls, 3¨: 5 controls, 3♥: 6 controls, 3♠: 7 controls.
2♥ or 2♠ openings are natural, weak twos, 4-10. Bids in M are to play. New suit bids NF, but constructive. 4♣ is ORB for M.
2NT is 20/21-22 balanced. 3♣ is Stayman. 3♦ and 3♥ are Jacoby transfers. 3♠ is a relay to 3NT, slam try with a long minor or both minors with unequal length. 3NT is to play. 4♣ is both majors, at least 5-5. 4¨ is Ace asking. 4♥ is equal length in the minors, 5-5 or better, slam try. 4♠ is transfer to ♣s. 4NT is Quantitative. 5♣ is transfer to ♦s. 5♦ is suit fit ask – asks opener to bid naturally up-the-line.
[ETM Multi Victory]
When permitted the following changes are recommended to ETM Victory.
Ø 2♦ opening is Multi, either a weak two in a major, 4-9, can be just a decent five card suit, or a game force with a five card or longer major.
Ø 2♥ or 2♠ openings show 8/9/10-13 with 6 or longer in the major.
Ø 2♦ and 2♥ responses to 1m openings are still transfers but show useful to minimum GF values, about 8 to poor 15.
Ø 2§ response to 1§ still shows both majors, but 5+♠s & 4+♥s 0 to 9.
Ø Transfers are played over the 1§ opening: 1♦=♥s, 1♥=♠s, 1♠=no four card major.
These changes are covered in this document.
[ETM Total Victory]
ETM Multi Victory can be extended with the
following methods:
Ø 1§-1NT is used by game forcing balanced or semi-balanced hands to ask hand type.
Ø 1♦-2§ is used by game forcing balanced or semi-balanced hands to ask hand type.
Ø 1M-2♣ is either a GF with either a balanced hand or with either minor.
Ø 1♥-2♦ shows 3+♦s, 9+, awkward hands to bid otherwise.
Ø 1♠-2♦ is a transfer to ♥s, 5♥s, GI or better.
Ø 1♠-2♥ shows 6+♥s, maximum of 10 HCP, less than GI values.
Ø ETM Gadget is used to ask after some of opener’s rebids to provide game forcing sequences on some difficult auctions, and to show a “useful” type hand that is difficult to both show and stay low.
Ø ETM Swaps and Transfers are used in competition to place overcaller on lead and to provide extended bidding space for majors.
1♣: Unbalanced ♣s 11-22 or balanced 14/15-16 & 2¨s, or bal. hand with 16/17-18 (then can be 5M).
1♦, 1♥: Transfers
to M. 1M
rebid is 3 in M unbalanced, 4/5 in M and 14/15-18 balanced, or 14/15-16
balanced with 2♦s and 3 in M. 2♣ asks which.
1♠: No four card major. 1NT rebid
is 15-17, 17 if not good ♦s. 2NT
is 17-18. Over 1NT or 2NT, ♣s
relays to ♦s, cheapest ♦ asks for five card major, and M bids show weakness.
1NT: 11+ balanced or semi-balanced, can have four card major if GF values. Rebids:
2♣: ♣s unbalanced & maximum of 15 OR no singleton/void & 6/7♣s & 16+.
2♦: 16/17-18 balanced but not a 4‑3-3-3 shape.
2♥: 4♠s unbalanced & 16+ or any 4-3-3-3 with 17-18 balanced. With 4-4-1-4 rebid 2♥, then over 2♠ ask, bid 3♦(shortness), and now 3♥ asks if 4♥s, with 3♠=yes.
2♠: 4♥s unbalanced & 16+, not 4♠s.
2NT: 14/15-16 balanced & 2♦s. 3♣ asks, bid 4 card major not held, 3♦ with both.
3♣: Unbalanced 16+ with no second suit but a singleton/void. 3♦ ask shortness.
3♦: 6+♣s 4+♦s & 16+.
3M: 5♣s & 4♦s and short in M,
3NT (16-19) or 4♣ (19/20-22) if 2-2-4-5.
After these bids,
cheapest bid re-asks. Replies to
1♣-1NT;2♣-2♦ are designed to show
minimum hands in same way as maximum hands.
4m is always ORB for that
suit, and after re-ask, 3M is ORB
for M.
2♣: 5+♠s, 4+♥s, 0-9. 2♦ or 2NT asks. Over 2♦, 2♥ or 2♠ rebid with 0-6, 2♠=5-5+ in majors.
2♦,2♥: Transfer Useful Jump Shifts. 2M signoff, 3M mild invite, 2NT asks:
3 suit bid below M: Retransfer, no singleton/void, minimum or near game going+.
3♣: Singleton/void in minor, 6 in M, any strength. 3♦ asks singleton with 3M and 3NT showing singleton/void in opener’s minor.
3M: Singleton/void in
3♠(if M=♥), 3♦(if M=♦): Singleton/void in
3NT: No singleton/void, good GI.
4X: Singleton/void in suit, 7+ in M.
4M: 7-2-2-2-, better than bidding game over
opening originally.
2♠: Limit+, 2NT rebid with balanced hand.
2NT: Limit with stoppers.
3♣: Constructive raise, opener to bid if 16/17-18.
3♦: To play opposite balanced hand, long suit.
3M: Natural, GI.
4♣: Preemptive.
Games: Essentially to play, 3NT showing 13-15 and no four card major.
Competitive:
2♣ by responder if available is 8-11 with 3/4♣s. System on over double except 1NT is 4-4 in
majors with
Total Victory summary continued…
1♣-1red-1NT and 1♦-1M-1NT basic structure
2♣: Asks for five card major, 2♦ says no. Now 2♥ asks for further shape, 2♠ shows GF in ♦s and only 4 in M (2NT now asks for further shape), 2NT is Delayed Scanian.
2red: The retransfer to the major, 5+ in M. Responder’s next bid is often transfer, 3♣=♦s. With 5♥s & 4♠s, retransfer with 2♦, then rebid 2NT to show 4♠s & 5+♥s. Note that retransfer to ♥s, then 2♠ is used to show ♣s (not 2NT which with shows ♠s!).
2♦: If
♠s=M, 2♦ shows either
5-5 in majors 9/10+ or signoff in ♠s with other strains playable.
2♥: If ♥s=M, 2♥ is signoff but other
strains playable, often with 4♠s.
2♠: GF in ♣s with only 4 in M.
2NT now asks for further shape.
2NT: Exactly 4 in
3m: 5+ in om, 5 in M, GF.
3♥: GF, Singleton/void in in
3♠: GF, Singleton/void in in
1¨: Unbalanced ♦s 11-22 or balanced 15-16 with 3+¨s, may have longer ♣s but no five card major.
1M: Natural.
1NT: Maximum of 8.
2♣: Asks, 3+♣s.
2♦: Unbalanced minimum. Now pass or 3♣ with 9-10, 2♥ asks for more information, 2♠ shows GF in ♣s, 2NT is 11-12, 3♣ is long clubs & NF.
2♥: Unbalanced near GF with less than 3♣s or balanced major & minor (4-4+, usually 4-4) or 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3 exactly. Now 2♠ asks, can have ♣s GF or just asking (2NT with balanced major & minor or 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3 with 3♣ reasking, and above 2NT with unbalanced) and 2NT is used to show GF in ♣s.
2♠: Unbalanced GF with ♣s. 2NT or 3♣ both ask.
2NT: Balanced but not major & minor, 3♣ asks. Other bids show ♣s, 3M if weak.
3X: Unbalanced GF with
3♣s and descriptive.
3♣: To play opposite balanced hand.
3♦: To play opposite balanced hand.
Rest: as over 1♣ opening.
Competitive:
2♦ by responder if available is 8-11 with 3/4♦s. System on over double except flip-flop majors
(1♥ shows ♠s, 1♠ shows ♥s),
1NT is 4-4 in majors with
1XYZ is used on sequences where opener’s second bid is a new suit at the one level. 2♣ is a puppet to 2♦ with a ♦ signoff or a GI hand. 2♦ is an artificial GF. Other bids are signoffs/close to signoffs.
ETM Gadget is used on these sequences:
1) 1§-1♦(♥s);2§-2¨. 2) 1§-1♥(♠s);2§-2♥. 3) 1¨-1ª;2¨-2©. 4) 1¨-1ª;2§-2©.
Last
bid is a transfer to 2M, either
signoff in M, or any GF. If opener bids 2M, responder’s next bid shows nature of GF. Special sequence: 1♦-1♥;2♦-2NT forcing – no Gadget so 2NT forcing.
ETM uses many transfers – here is the defense if they are doubled:
- Without much values/length in suit doubled make normal response to partner’s bid.
- If values/length, pass which asks partner to redouble if not void. Then make normal rebid or pass the redouble with great length in the suit. Partner can decide to pass too if playing doubled contract right.
- With Hxxxx or HHxx of the suit make a direct redouble – partner will pass or bid as appropriate – after the redouble if the bid doubled was a transfer then system is on, but if the bid doubled was an asking bid (like Stayman) then natural bidding is used and a cuebid of the suit doubled is used to force if no other forcing sequence exists. Jacoby Stayman is considered a transfer.
Total Victory summary continued…
Competitive Notes:
1) 1m-1NT(by opponents)-2m shows limited hand with both majors or major & minor – responder will pass or correct as appropriate.
2)
If player just before opener
bids, regardless if responder or player’s partner has bid or not, then 2NT by
opener is Lebenshol – it shows a hand that wants to compete to the three level
but not enough values to make a direct three level bid.
1♥, 1♠: Natural openings with 10/11-22, five or longer always in 1st or 2nd seat.
Semi-forcing 1NT response, 1st or 2nd seat opener only passing with 11/12 & 5♠s & 3-3 in minors, or 11/12 & 5♥s & 4♠s.
After opener’s rebid, 2OM is forcing asking for further details, often:
Signoff in ♣s if opener rebid ♦s. Good raise in opener’s minor.
If ♠=M, 9-10 balanced. Good limit raise.
Cheapest suit bid at three level re-asks are used after opener’s 2NT or higher reply to 1NT. 3♠ shows whatever cheapest bid would have shown.
1M-1NT;2m-2M is 5-8, but by passed hand 1♥-1NT;2m-2♥ shows 5-10.
2♣ asks hand type, basic replies:
2♦: Waiting, 2♥ reasks (2♠ showing ♦s), 2♠ shows ♦s GF, and 3X shows ♣s GF.
2♥: 4 in
2♠: 6+ in
2NT: 14-16 balanced or 17/18+ with 6 in M but no shortness. 3♣ re-asks.
3♣: 4♣s & 5 in M, 16+. 3♦ reasks.
3♦: 5 in M & 5+♣s & 15+.
3NT: 6 in M,
singleton in
Other: Semi-natural, very big hand, double jumps to the four level showing shortness.
1♥-2♦: 3+♦s, either 9-10 balanced or GI with long ♦s, or GF with ♦s & distribution.
1♠-2♦: 10/11+ with 5+♥s. 2♥ now waiting (2♠ then artificially sets GF). Other bids GF.
1♠-2♥: 6+♥s, maximum of 9/10.
Cheapest jump shift: 7 to 9 with 4+ trumps.
Other
jump shifts: Fit showing,
with bid below 3M showing fit in
cheapest jump shift suit.
3M: 4
to 6 with 4+ trumps.
2NT: Limit raise or
better. 3♣=signoff with no
shortness or slam interest opposite GF (3♦ now reasks). 3♦= GF opposite limit but no slam
interest opposite GF (3♥ now re-asks).
3♠: Natural, GI based on long suit.
3NT: Support & singleton/void in
4m: Singleton/void in minor,
4OM or 4M is to play.
2♣ by passed hand: Drury with useful values or better. 2♦ reasks: 2♥=3 trumps min, 2♠=3 trumps maximum, 2NT=4 trumps no shortness. 3♣=3 trumps & shortness.
2♦, 2♥ by passed hand: 2♦
shows 6+♦s, 7/8-11.
1♠-2♥ shows 5/6♥s, 8-11. 2M
rebid 14+ & F.
2NT by passed hand: 4+ trumps, singleton/void, good hand. 3♣ asks shortness.
After 1♥-1♠, special sequences are available to show strong hand:
2♠ is minimum raise with 3/4♠s, 10/11-13.
2♥ shows ♥s & ♣s minimum, usually 5-5+.
2♣ is artificial, and responder usually bids 2♦. Then 2♥ shows 6+♥s, 14-17, 2♠ shows good raise with 3/4♠s 13/14-16, and 2NT or 3♣ shows ♣s & ♥s, 14/15-17/18.
Optionally opener can play jump shift transfers - 3♣ shows ♦s etc.
Competitive: Drury not on in competition. Over opponent’s takeout double 2♦ is artificial, good raise in M, while 2♣ shows a long minor (could be either suit). 2NT by responder if not over a pass or double is a major suit raise with useful values, 4+ in M. Optionally special negative double if M overcalled with OM where double shows ♦s and ♦ bid is used to show good raise.
Total Victory summary continued…
1NT: 11/12-14, can have a 5 card major if 3 cards in other major and not 14. Not 4-3-3-3 if 11-12.
2♣: Stayman with 2♥ rebid non-forcing, 2♠ invitational (handles all ♠ invites), 3♣ transfer to ♦s, and 3♦ showing ♣s.
2♦, 2♥: Jacoby transfers but 2♦ can also be used like Forcing Stayman so it is called Jacoby Stayman (JS). Over the Jacoby transfers, which are never GI, if opener bids 2M, then 2NT on up are all transfer bids. Replies to 2♦ Jacoby transfer are: 2♥=not 4♥s,2♠=4+♥s & not 4♠s, 2NT=4-4 in majors.
2♠: GI with 5♥s & less than 4♠s, or 4♠s & singleton ♥ & 4-4/5-4/4-5 in minors GF+, or 4♠s & 5+♥s GF that wants to show shortness.
2NT: Transfer to ♣s. 3♦ rebids show major shortness, 3♥=6+♣s & 4+♦s, 3♠=5-5+ in minors.
3♣: Transfer to ♦s. New suit rebids show singleton/void.
3♦: GF with
singleton/void in one major, 3 in
3♥: 4+♣s & 6+♦s & GF+ with ♦s at least two cards longer than ♣s.
3♠: Singleton/void in ♠s, 4♥s, 4-4/5-4/4-5 in minors.
4♣, 4♦: 4♣ is a transfer to ♥s and 4♦ is a transfer to ♠s, opener to not bid 4M only if 3 aces.
Games: To play.
Competitive: Negative Doubles, Lebenshol, over double redouble shows ♣s to play at two level or ♠s and another, pass forces redouble with power or minors to play at two level or ♦s to play at two level, m bids show m & ♥s, M bids natural, 2NT Lebenshol. If the auction goes 1NT-Double-Pass-Pass;Redouble-Pass-Pass(Power!)-?, Garozzo 2/3 doubles are now on.
If opponents
balance with a double, redouble by either player shows five card suit, while a
bid shows that suit and another (if no redouble opener usually passes
instead). If opponents balance with a
suit, double is takeout of the suit bid (not necessarily the suit shown).
2♣: Strong, either 18/19-20 balanced or 22/23+ balanced, or a GF without a five card major. Asks for a four card or longer major. After 2♣, 2♦ shows 4+♥s with perhaps longer second suit, 2♥ shows 4+♠s with perhaps longer minor. 2♠ shows no four card major. 2NT is 0 point hand with no four card major. 3m is very weak hand with long minor. 3M shows a six card or longer major with at most one loser in the major.
Competitive: Double by either player is takeout, but by opener suggests a balanced or semi-balanced hand. Major bids by opener only show 4 in the suit, often has longer minor.
2♦: Multi, either weak two bid in ♥s or ♠s, 4 to 9 HCP, can have a five card major, does not have two of top three honours and an ace (so not AKQ in suit either), OR a game forcing hand with at least one five card or longer major, and not 5-3-3-2. After 2♦, bids of M pass or correct, 3m natural & forcing. 2NT asks hand type:
3♣: minimum in ♥s or ♠s, or good suit in ♥s or ♠s. 3♥ now pass or correct, 3♦ reasks:
3♥: poor with ♠s or good suit ♠s. 3♠ NF so pass with poor ♠s.
3♠: poor with ♥s.
Above 3♠: good suit ♥s.
3¨: ♥s more than a
minimum, not good suit ♥s.
3♥ asks hand type, 3X
showing 5♥s.
3♥: ♠s more than a minimum, not good suit ♠s. 3♠ asks hand type, 3NT showing 5♠s.
3♠: Game forcing opening with 5 or longer ♠s.
3NT: Artificial, game forcing opening with 5 or longer ♥s.
4X: Weak two - good suit ♠s, unbalanced, second suit or extra M length.
Competitive:
Double of m is penalty, double of M bid is pass
or correct. If opponents overcall
3♥ or 3♠, a bid of game in the other major is to play – to play in
opener’s major bid 4♣ (transfer me to your major) or 4♦ (bid your
major).
Style note: Never lead a singleton honor in a major after partner opens 2♦ with weak hand.
Total Victory summary continued…
2♥,
2♠: 8/9/10-13, 6+ in M.
If 9 HCP and only six in M,
AKQ in suit or KQ in suit & an outside ace.
Otherwise if 8/9 HCP, 7+ in M and some defensive values.
If 4 in
3♣: promises
singleton or void in some suit, not 4 in
3¨: no singleton or void,
6 in M. 3OM
re-asks.
3♥: 6+ in M, 4 in
3♠: 6+ in M, 4♣s, not dead minimum. 4♣ is ORB, other bids for M.
3NT: 6+ in M, 4¨s, not dead minimum. 4¨s is ORB, other bids for M.
4X: 6-5 two suiter, likely minimum (or would have open 1M).
4M: 7-2-2-2 shape.
Competitive: Double by responder is penalty except not of
suit overcall just below 3M. If opponents suit overcall on three level, 3M is to
play while cheapest suit bid below 3M
is artificial, GI in M – if suit
overcall just below 3M double is not
penalty but instead shows GI in M. Over
takeout double use ETM Defense to Double (transfer bids that can be lead
directional only). If responder bids 3M or 4M and opponents bid
2NT: 20/21-22 balanced. 3♣ is Stayman. 3♦ and 3♥ are Jacoby transfers. 3♠ is a relay to 3NT, slam try with a long minor or both minors with unequal length. 3NT is to play. 4♣ is both majors, at least 5-5. 4¨ is Ace asking. 4♥ is equal length in the minors, 5-5 or better, slam try. 4♠ is transfer to ♣s. 4NT is Quantitative. 5♣ is transfer to ♦s. 5♦ is suit fit ask – asks opener to bid naturally up-the-line. Competitive: double by either player shows values, lets partner decide.
General Approach: Hybrid 1♣, natural 1♦, 1♥ and 1♠ openings, weak notrump, 2♣ 18/19-20 balanced or GF, weak two 2, 2♥ and 2♠ openings, 2NT 20/21-22 balanced.
|
Opening |
Style |
Description |
|
1♣ |
Hybrid |
Hybrid, clubs or balanced, 11-22, one of: 1) Clubs unbalanced, 11-22. 2) Balanced 16/17-18, 2+♣s, can have a five card major. 3) Balanced 14/15-16, with exactly 2♦s, 3+♣s, no five card major. |
|
1¨ |
Natural |
Diamonds, can be: 1) 4+♦s, natural, unbalanced, 10/11-22. 2) Balanced 14/15-16 with 3+♦s, may have longer ♣s, no five card major. |
|
1♥, 1♠ |
Natural |
5+ in M, 10/11-22. Not 5-3-3-2 if 3 in other major and 11-13. Not 5‑3‑3‑2 if 17/18+ (system does not provide 2NT rebid). |
|
1NT |
Weak |
11/12-14, balanced, can have a five card major if 3 in the other major and 11-13. 5-4-2-2 possible with a five card minor. A six card minor can be held. |
|
2♣ |
Strong |
18/19-20 balanced (can have five card major) or 22/23+ balanced (can have five card major) or any GF without a five card major. Asks for a four card major. |
|
2♦ |
Strong or Multi |
When Multi not allowed it shows a GF with a five card major (not balanced) or any GF with a rebid plan. Asks for controls. When Multi allowed it shows a weak two in a major, five or longer suit, 3/4-9, or a GF with a five card or longer major, unbalanced. |
|
2♥, 2♠ |
Weak/ Intermediate |
5 or 6 card suit 4/5-10. If five card suit good suit. Can be 6-5 hand planning on rebidding second suit. If Multi allowed it shows a 6 card or longer suit, 8/9/10-13, if 8-9 solid suit or seven card suit. Can have second suit. |
|
2NT |
Balanced |
20/21-22 balanced. |
|
3♣, 3♦ |
Preemptive |
Six or longer suit, 4/5-9, not solid seven card suit (open 3NT). |
|
3♥, 3♠ |
Preemptive |
Seven card suit, 3/4-9. Not 9 if 2♥ or 2♠ opening shows 8/9/10-13. |
|
3NT |
Preemptive |
Seven card suit to the AKQ or, if a minor, AKJ, little outside. |
|
4♣ |
Artificial |
Unknown long major, too much playing value for 4♥ or 4♠ opening. |
|
4♦ |
Preemptive |
Long broken suit, weak hand. |
|
4♥, 4♠ |
Preemptive |
Long major suit, not great playing value since no 4♣ opening. |
|
4NT |
Asking |
Specific ace asking, bid 5♣ with no ace, otherwise bid suit with ace, 5NT shows two or more aces held, 6♣ shows just club ace. |
|
5♣, 5♦ |
Preemptive |
Very long minor suit, no outside ace or king. |
General Approach: Suit openings at any level but one natural and preemptive, 3NT to play, 2NT.
|
Opening |
Style |
Description |
|
1♥,1♠ |
Natural |
Can have a decent four card suit or 5-3-3-2 if minimum, planning on passing a 1NT response, or if 5-3-3-2, rebidding at two level. |
|
2♥,2♠ |
Preemptive |
If Multi not allowed then wide ranging in 3rd seat, up to 12/13. About 11-13 in 4th suit. |
|
3X |
Preemptive |
Wide ranging preempt in 3rd seat, about 11-13 HCP in 4th seat. |
|
3NT |
To play |
To play, “Gambling” but any type of hand. |
|
4X |
Preemptive |
Preemptive, in 4th seat with values so contract is possible make. |
|
5X |
Preemptive |
To play. |
|
Range |
Opening |
Notes |
|
0-11 |
Pass |
|
|
11/12-14 |
1NT |
Weak notrump – not normally 14 with a five card or longer suit. |
|
14/15-16 |
1¨, 1♣ |
Open 1¨ unless 2¨s, then open 1♣ |
|
16/17-18 |
1♣ |
|
|
18/19-20 |
2♣ |
|
|
20/21-22 |
2NT |
|
|
22/23-24 |
2♣ |
|
|
24/25+ |
2♣ |
|
The ETM Victory 1♣ opening is a hybrid almost forcing opening – it shows either a natural club opening or a balanced hand 16/17-18, or an in-between hand, balanced 14/15-16 with 3+♣s & exactly 2♦s. The hand types are:
1) Clubs unbalanced, 11-22.
2) Balanced 16/17-18, 2+♣s, can have a five card major.
3) Balanced 14/15-16, with exactly 2¨s, 3+♣s, no five card major.
General approach: natural, useful jump shifts.
|
Response |
Style |
Description |
|
Pass |
Rare |
0-3 points, or 4-5/6 with some length in ♣s. |
|
1♦ |
Natural or semi-natural |
4+ diamonds & no four card major & any strength, or 3+♦s & balanced hand 4-10 with no four card major. Forcing. |
|
1♥, 1♠ |
Natural |
4+ in M, 3/4+ points. |
|
1NT |
Natural |
Balanced or semi-balanced, game forcing with any or game invite with no four card major. 11+ without a four card major, 13+ with a four card major. |
|
2♣ |
Majors |
Both majors, game forcing values. |
|
2♦, 2♥ |
Transfer |
Six or longer in major suit one above bid made (2♦=♥s, 2♥=♠s), game forcing. |
|
2♠ |
Limit+ |
Limit raise or better, 9+, enough for game opposite 14/15+. |
|
2NT |
Limit |
Spread out values, balanced, 4/5♣s, enough for game opposite 14/15+, 9-11. Denies a four card major. |
|
3♣ |
Constructive |
5+♣s, no four card major, enough for game opposite 17-18 balanced but passable if 15-16, about 6/7-8. |
|
3♦ |
To Play |
Long ♦s, weak hand, to play opposite 14/15-18 balanced. |
|
3♥, 3♠ |
Natural |
|
|
3NT |
Strong |
NF, Balanced, 12-14, 4-3-3-3 with spread out values, no four card major. |
|
4X, 5♣. 5♦ |
Preemptive |
Very long suit, no ace, no outside king, not much in values, sets trump suit so if opener bids it is a cuebid, and 4NT is RKCB for suit. |
See the section following, ETM Multi Victory/Total Victory Changes – Minor Suit Openings, but details on transfer one level responses to 1♣.
|
Range |
Rebid |
|
14/15-16 |
1 of a major if four card major, otherwise 1NT. |
|
16/17-18 |
1NT. |
|
Range |
Rebid |
|
14/15-16 |
2M if four card support, 2M or 1NT if three card support. |
|
16/17-18 |
1NT if less than four card support, 3M if four card support. |
|
Range |
Rebid |
|
14/15-16 |
2¨ if no four card major, 2M with a four card major. |
|
16/17-18 |
2NT, no five card
or longer suit. 3X with five or longer suit, no other four card suit, 3NT with 5-4
either way in the minors. |
|
Range |
Rebid |
|
14/15-16 |
2NT or 3¨ (3♦s with weak doubleton in ♦s). |
|
16/17-18 |
2NT (or 3NT with flat hand). |
The 1NT rebid shows 16/17-18 balanced, or 14/15-16 with a particular hand type. If 14/15-16, 1♣-1¨;1NT shows 3-3-2-5 exactly, and 1♣-1M;1NT shows 3 in M. The 1XYZ convention is used over 1NT, see the section following the minor suit openings.
After 1♣-1Y;1Z, the 1XYZ convention is used, covered in separate section. So 1♣-1¨;1♠-2¨ is artificial GF, like fourth suit forcing. Note that 1§-1♥-1♠ can have up to maximum opening values, since 1§-1♥-2♠ is an artificial raise in ♥s.
After 1♣-1♥ and 1♣-1♠ which shows 4+ in the major, opener has these raises rebids available, with M being responder’s major suit:
|
2M |
Unbalanced up to 14 or bad 15, or balanced 14/15-16. Four card support, or three cards with a singleton or void or if 14/15-16 with weak doubleton ¨. 2NT is an artificial game try/asking bid – see the section on common methods after minor suit openings. All of responder’s other bids non-jump bids are natural game tries, with 3M showing good trumps. Jump new suit bids by responder show singleton/void in suit bid, slam try. |
|
2♠/1♥ |
Four card support, singleton/void in ♠s, about 15-17. |
|
3♦ |
Four card support, singleton/void in ♦s, about 15-17. |
|
3♥/1♠ |
Four card support, singleton/void in ♥s, about 15-17. |
|
3M |
Four or five card support, ♣s, 16/17-18 balanced or 5-4-2-2 shape 15-17. |
|
3♠/1♥, 4¨, 4♥/1♠ |
Singleton/void in suit bid, four card support, ♣s, 18+ |
|
4♣ |
Four card support, good six card or longer suit, 18+. |
|
4M |
No singleton/void, four card support, 5-4-2-2 shape, 18/19+. |
After 1♣-1NT, opener describes hand as follows:
2♣: Natural unbalanced opening, not maximum, 10/11-15, OR 16-21/22, 6/7♣s, no singleton/void.
2♦: 16/17-18 balanced, but not any 4-3-3-3 shape. 2♥ now asks for shape information:
2♠: 4/5♥s. 2NT asks second suit, 3♥=5♥s, 3♠=4-4 & 2♣s, 3NT=4-4 majors & 2♦s.
2NT: 4/5♠s without 4♥s. 2NT asks second suit, 3♠=5♠s, 3♥=♣s&2♥s, 3NT=♣s&2♦s.
3m: 5/6 in m, no other second suit.
3M: two in M, 4-4 in minors.
3NT: 2-2 in minors, 5-4 or 4-5 in minors.
For next responses note memory aid: Majors are flip-flopped to get responder to play hand often.
2♥: 4+♠s & unbalanced hand more than a minimum so 16-21/22, or 16/17-18 balanced with any 4-3-3-3. 2♠ asks, 2NT shows the 4-3-3-3 hand (3♣ then asks for 4 card suit), and 3X shows 4+♠s unbalanced with ♦ or ♥ bids showing singleton/void, 3♣ showing 6+♣s (3♦ asks shortness then). After 3♦ rebid (short ♦s), 3♥ asks if 4♥s (i.e. 4-4-1-4 or 4-4-0-5), 3♠ showing 4♥s, and 3NT+ showing 4-3-1-5 exactly.
2♠: 4+♥s
& unbalanced hand more than a minimum so 16-21/22, not 4♠s. 2NT asks with ♦ or ♠ bids showing
singleton/void, 3♣ showing 6+♣s (3♦ asks shortness then).
2NT: 14/15-16 balanced, 2♦s. 3♣ asks opener to bid 3♦ if 4-4 in majors, 3 of a major with 4 in the other major, 3NT if 3-3-2-5.
3♣: 6+♣s, more than a minimum so 16-21/22, singleton/void in a suit, no 4 card or longer second suit. 3♦ asks short suit with 3NT showing short ♦s.
3♦: 6+♣s, 4+♦s, more than a minimum so 16-21/22. 3♥ asks short suit, 3NT shows short ♥s, 4♣ shows 7-4+, 4♦ shows 6-5+.
Above 3♦: 5♣s, 4♦s, more than a minimum so 16-21/22. 3M shows singleton/void, 4♣ maximum opening bid with 2-2-4-5.
After 2♣ response, 2♦ re-asks with rebids like when holding 16-21/22, except:
2♥: Either 4♠s & 10/11-15 OR unbalanced 6/7♣s & no singleton/void & 16+. 2♠ asks which, with 2NT showing second hand type (rebids as over 2NT below), while 3X shows first hand type (4♠s, unbalanced, with 3♦ or 3♥ showing shortness).
2NT: Minimum,
10/11-15, 6/7♣s & no singleton void.
3♣ asks for 3 card suit, 3NT showing none (2-2-2-7).
After bids above 2♣
and opener’s response, bidding is natural except cheapest bid is used to
re-ask, and once opener shows two suits, a bid of a third suit is shortness. 4m
is always ORB for m, and once
responder re-asks, 3M is ORB for
that suit. 3NT by responder is always to
play. 1♣-1NT;2NT-3NT is to play,
can be 11-12 balanced with no four card major, though can be other hand types
as well with no slam interest. After
2♣ rebid, 2NT or 3♣ shows game invite with no four card major. These are
the only non-GF sequences. 2NT over
1♣-1NT;2♦ shows 11-12 balanced, and invites opener to bid a 4+ card
minor suit if slam possible, or to bid 3M
if a major suit is weak or has just Ax or Axx.
Examples:
1♣-1NT;2♣(♣s)-2♦(asks, GF);2♠(5+♣s&4+♥s, minimum)-2NT(re-asks);3♠(short ♠s)-3NT (to play)
1♣-1NT;2♣(♣s)-2♦(asks, GF);3♣(6+♣s, no second suit, shortness)-3♦(re-asks);3NT(short ♦s)
1♣-1NT;2♣(♣s, usually minimum)-2♥(♥s, GF);3♣(long ♣s).
1♣-1NT;2♣(♣s, usually minimum)-2NT(11-12 balanced, game invite, no four card major);3♣(to play).
1♣-1NT;2♣(♣s, usually minimum)-3♣(11-12 balanced, 4+♣s, game invite).
1♣-1NT;2NT(14/15-16 balanced with 2♦s)-3♠(natural);3NT(not 4♠s, 14/15-16 balanced).
1♣-1NT;2NT (14/15-16 balanced with 2♦s);3NT(to play).
After 1♣-3♣, a constructive raise in ♣s. Bidding is like over 1♣-2NT, with 1♣-3♣-4♣ ORB for ♣s.
|
Response |
Style |
Description |
|
Pass |
Rare |
0-5, no four card major. If short ♣s prefer to bid 1♠ or 3♦ if 4/5. |
|
1♦, 1♥ |
Transfer |
Transfer to the next major, 0+ points, major suit 4 or longer, may have a longer minor. |
|
1♠ |
Diamonds |
4+♦s or 3-3-3-4 exactly, 4/5+, no four card or longer major. |
|
2♣ |
Majors |
Both majors, 5+♠s, 4+♥s, 0-9. |
|
2♦, 2♥ |
Transfer |
Six or longer in major suit one above bid made (2♦=♥s, 2♥=♠s), useful to game invitational values. See separate section on Useful Transfers. |
[After 1♣-1♦ and 1♣-1♥ transfers]
Bidding is like it is in basic ETM Victory if the major suit was bid instead of the transfer, except for these changes:
In particular opener can have:
a) 14/15-16 balanced, and 3 or 4 in M (since this hand type is only opened 1♣ when 3 or 4 in each major). If only 3♥s this hand will have 4 or 5♣s.
b) 16/17-18 balanced with 4 or 5 in M.
c) 15+ unbalanced hand with exactly 3 in M, and this hand must have 5+♣s.
Note that 1M is stronger than 2M, so that the opponents can not easily
come into the bidding.
1NT: 16/17-18 balanced or semi-balanced, 1 to 3 in M, not the 14/15-16 balanced hand.
2M: Unbalanced raise, maximum of 14.
2♠/1♦: Strong and natural jump shift by opener, denies 3♥s.
2NT: Shows 18+, 6+♣s, less than 3 in M.
Now 3♣ is the weak bid and is not forcing. All other bids are GF, with 3♦ asking
for further description, and the replacement bid, 3M, showing length in ♦s.
3♥/1♥: Natural, distributional hand, 5+♥s, 6+♣s, GF based on shape.
3M: Singleton/void in
Other reverses and jump shifts: Natural
but deny 3+ in M, can be passed if
responder very weak (usually 0-2/3).
[After 1♣-1♦;1♥ and 1♣-1♥;1♠]
If opener completes the transfers it shows 15+, 3+ in M, as above. Over opener’s completion of the transfer, responder bids:
Pass: 0-2/3, no chance for game.
1♠: 4+♠s, forcing, checking if 4-4 ♠ fit. Opener now bids:
1NT: 15-17, 1-4-3-5 shape usually.
2♣: 6+♣s, 3♥s, not 4♠s, 15-17.
2♦: Singleton/void in ♦s, 4♠s, 3♥s, 15-16.
2♥: 4♥s, 14/15-16
2♠: 4♠s, 14/15-16, balanced, doubleton ♦.
2NT, 3X: Like 1NT to 2♠, but 2 or 3 more points. 3♥ or 3♠ show 16/17-18.
3NT, 4X: Like 2NT to 3♠, but 2 or 3 more points.
1NT: To play if opener has 14/15-16 balanced
with 3♥s, otherwise opener bids naturally with 2M showing 14/15-16 balanced with 4 in M, 3M showing 16/17-18
balanced with 4/5 in M, and opener
jumps the bidding if 17/18+, with ♦ or OM bids showing singletons.
2♣: Asks for further description of hand, some game interest or better, or a ♣ signoff. Opener now shows four card support, a long ♣ suit, or shortness:
2♦: Weak doubleton or singleton/void in ♦s, 3 in M, 14/15-17.
2M: 4 in M, 14/15-16 balanced.
2OM: Singleton/void
in
2NT: 14/15-16 balanced, 3 in M, Qx or better in ♦s. 3♦ now asks for full stopper.
3♣: 6+♣s, 3 in M, 15-17.
3♦: Singleton/void in ♦s, 3 in M, 18+.
3OM: Singleton/void
in
3NT: 6♣s, 3 in M, 18-22.
After opener’s rebid, the
cheapest bid by responder, not including ♣s, M, or 3NT, establishes GF and asks for further description. The cheapest bid in M is a signoff, and if opener just shows 3 in M then cheapest bid in ♣s or notrump is a signoff. Game bids to play.
2♦: 5+♦s, 4 in M, 0-7. Bidding natural,
anything above 2M shows some game
interest.
2♥: 5+♠s, 4+♥s, GF.
2M: Mild game interest, 5+ in M.
3♣: To play in ♣s if opener has just 3 in M and 15-18.
2NT,
3♦, 2♠/1♥, 3♥/1♠: 5+ in M, game tries or better. Forcing to cheapest bid in M.
3M: Serious game invite, looking for good trumps.
Double jump suits: Slam tries, splinters (even in ♣s shows singleton/void in ♣s).
4M: To play.
[1♣-1♠]
The 1♠ reply to 1♣ denies a four card major. Opener rebids:
1NT: 15-17 balanced with a doubleton ♦ (17 with a weak doubleton) or 14-17 semi-balanced hand with a singleton in ♦ (common shapes: 4‑4‑1-4, 4-3-1-5, 3-4-1-5, 3-3-1-6, could be 4-4-0-5).
2♣: Unbalanced opening up to 15, may have just 5♣s or, if 4-4-1-4, just 4♣s. If not 6+♣s, denies 3♦s.
Responder rebids:
2♦: To play in 2♦.
2♥: Artificial, establishes a game force, shows real ♦s, asks opener to bid 2♠, then shows nature of GF hand. For example 1♣-1♠;2♣-2♥;2♠-2NT is GF & majors stopped.
2♠: Game try without clear direction: often 2/3♣s, 5♦s.
2NT: Natural, GI.
3♣: Natural, GI.
3♦: Natural, GI.
3M: Singleton/void, 4+♣s, 4+♦s, game going values.
3NT: To play.
2♦: 3/4♦s, 4/5+♣s, 11 to 15, if just 3♦s then exactly 5♣s. Rebids like over 2♣, with 2♥ artificial GF and 2♠ game try without clear direction, for example a hand with 3-3-4-3 shape exactly.
2M: Natural or semi-natural, unbalanced, full reverse values (18+) if short in ♦s, close to reverse values or better if not short in ♦s (16+).
2NT: 16/17-18 balanced, if 16/17 balanced not a weak doubleton ♦.
3♣: Unbalanced hand, 6+♣s, 14/15-17.
3♦: Unbalanced hand, 4+♦s, 14/15-17.
3M: 4+♦s, 4/5+♣s, singleton/void, 17/18+.
3NT: Like 1♣-1red-3NT, but with a singleton ♦.
4♣: Slam try with 6+♣s, great suit, 4+♦s.
4♦: Slam
try with 6+♦s, 5+♦s.
4M: Slam try with 6+♦s, 5+♦s, void in M.
[After 1♣-1♦;1NT and 1♣-1♥;1NT, and 1♦-1M;1NT]
The normal 1XYZ is not used over 1♣ opening with transfer responses since that would defeat the transfer effect. In addition the narrow notrump range means that invitational bids are not that useful, and instead the extra bidding space is employed in defining hand types to partner. The result is a method that still allows transfers and permits partner to learn what is needed to properly place the contract. For consistency reasons the same method is used over 1♦-1M-1NT. For the details below M is defined as responder’s major, so that after 1♣-1♦(transfer to ♥s);1NT, then M=♥s.
After opener’s 1NT rebid:
2♣: Asks opener to bid 2♦ without 5
in
2M-1: The
bid under M is a retransfer to M, either signoff in M or game force that will show 5+ in M and shape/type of hand. If ♠s=M it denies 4+♥s, but if ♥s=M the retransfer is the bid to use with 4+♠s & longer ♥s. The bid denies having a GF with 5-5 and a
minor, though can have a 6-5+ if 6+ in M.
2♥: If ♥=M, signoff/mild invite at best with just 5 in M and other contracts possible, often 4♠s or five card minor. After 2♥, opener always bids 2♠ if holding 4 or 5♠s, or if good maximum can bid 2NT without 3♥s or 3♥ with 3♥s. Bidding continues naturally.
2♦: If ♠=M, 5-5+ in majors (5+♥s) any strength, or signoff with both
majors, or signoff in ♠s but other contracts possible, or game invite
with ♠s. Opener assumes signoff in
majors and bids 2♥ or 2♠.
Then 2♠ over 2♥ shows signoff in ♠s with 5♠s
& a minor suit. Over 2♥ or
2♠, 2NT or 3♠ is a game invite in ♠s. 3m
by responder shows shortness, GF, with 5-5 in majors, 3♥ is 6-5+ GF.
2♠: Artificial, 5+♣s, exactly 4 in M, not 4 in
2NT: Exactly 4 in
3♣: 5 in M, 5+♦s, GF. Note that
3♣ shows ♦s!
3♦: 5 in M, 5+♣s, GF. Note that 3♦ shows ♣s!
3♥: Singleton/void in
3♠: Void in
3NT: To play.
4♣: Gerber.
4♦: If ♠=M, to play in a major, opener to pick.
4M-1: Transfer
to M, usually to play 4M.
4M: To play.
After 3♣ or 3♦ response, cheapest bid and 3M (if not cheapest) both asks for shortness, 3M showing shortness in ♦s, 3NT showing shortness in OM if 3OM not available, 4m showing 6-5-1-1, 4 of a new suit showing shortness and promises a void if could bid 3 of a suit on the three level, or either void or slam try values if could bid 3NT to show shortness.
After responder shows shape to opener, opener has these RKCB bids available:
- 4 of either minor as ORB for m as long as opener has not shown shortness in the minor suit.
- 4 of a suit responder has shown shortness in is RKCB for M, and is ORB if below 4M.
-
If responder has shown both
majors, 4♣ is ORB for ♥s, 4♦ ORB for ♠s.
[After 1m…1NT sequences, detail]
2♣: Asks opener to bid 2♦ without 5
in
Ø Signoff in either minor (can check for 5-3 major fit first).
Ø
Planning on showing shape with
GF with 5+♦s & exactly 4 in M,
not 4+♣s or 4 in
Ø Planning on making a slam try or stronger bid with a flat hand.
Ø
Planning on checking for no
stopper in side suit or finding out if opener has 5 in
Ø Planning on showing 6+♥s, 5+♠s if ♥s=M.
After 2♦ or 2♥ by opener:
2♠: Artificial,
5+♦s, exactly 4 in M, not 4 in
2NT: Delayed Scanian. Asks opener to bid 3♥ with no weak doubleton or to bid a suit on the three level, ignoring M, with a weak doubleton. 3NT shows weak ♥s if ♥s not M. If opener bids 3♥ (no weak suit not including M), 3♠ artificially shows 5 in M, offers game choice.
3♣: ♣ signoff.
3♠: 6+♥s,
5+♠s, GF.
Games: To play.
After 2♦ by opener:
Pass: Signoff with ♦s.
2♥: Artificial, a slam try or stronger with a flat hand that asks opener to bid naturally, but not above 2NT unless shapely. When M=♥s, opener does not show 3♥s immediately, since responder often 4♥s exactly. When M=♠s, opener does not show 4♥s immediately, since responder can not be 4-4 in the majors.
3♥ & higher suit bids: Descriptive
with 6-5+ in majors, 4m shows void.
After 2♥ by opener (shows 5 in
3♦: Signoff in ♦s.
3♥: Fit for
4m: Singleton/void in m, length in om,
fit for
[After 1m…1NT sequences, detail continued]
2♦,
2♥: If one under M, this is the re-transfer to M and promises 5+ in M.
After 1m…1NT-2♦;2♥:
Pass: Signoff in ♥s. All other bids but 2NT are GF.
2♠: Transfer to ♣s. Note that 2NT is not the transfer to ♣s on this sequence!
2NT: Shows 5+♥s,
exactly 4♠s, GF. 3♣ asks for
shortness, 3♥ showing ♣ shortness.
Rest natural except minor bids by responder show shortness.
3♣: Transfer to ♦s.
3♦: Transfer to ♥s, 5/6♥s and choice of game (5♥s with some shape) or 6+♥s and no singleton or ♠ singleton slam try. Opener can bid 3♥ to wait (now 3NT shows 5♥s and some shape), or bid 3NT to place contract if responder does not have slam try.
3♥: Transfer to ♠s with 6+♥s, 5+♠s.
3♠: 5♥s, 4♦s, singleton/void in ♣s.
3NT: 5♥s, flat hand.
4♣,4♦: Singleton/void in suit, 6+♥s, slam try.
4♥: To play.
After 1m…1NT-2♥;2♠ (transfer to ♠s):
Pass: Signoff in ♠s.
2NT: Transfer to 3♣.
3♣: Transfer to 3♦.
3♦: 4♦s & 6+♠s.
3♥: 5/6♠s and choice of game (5♠s with some shape) or 6+♠s and no singleton slam try. Opener can bid 3♠ to wait (now 3NT shows 5♠s and some shape), or bid 3NT to place contract if responder does not have a slam try.
3♠: 5♠s, 4♦s, singleton/void in ♣s.
3NT: 5♠s, flat hand.
4♣,4♦,4♥: Singleton/void in suit, 6+♠s, slam try.
4♠: To play.
After responder transfers to a
minor suit, responder’s new suit bids show shortness, and bids on the four
level show a 6-5+ with 6+ in M.
[1♣-1♠-1NT and 1♣-1♠-2NT]
The basic structure is this:
Cheapest bid in ♣s: Transfer to ♦s. Major suit bids will then show shortness.
Cheapest bid in ♦s: Asks for a five card major.
Major bids: Shortness with both minors.
After 1♣-1♠-1NT:
2♣: Transfer to 2♦. After 2♦, responder bids:
Pass: Signoff in ♦s.
2M: Singleton/void in M, ♦ length, forcing to 2NT.
Responder can force on next round of bidding by bidding ♣s or either
major, with 3M showing a void and a
game force.
2NT: GI with 5♦s.
3♣: GI with ♣s and ♦s, no major suit shortness or honor singleton.
3♦: GI with long ♦s.
3M: Singleton in M, ♦ length, game force.
3NT: Mild slam try in ♦s.
2♦: Asks for a five card major. 2NT by opener shows no five card major and a minimum, 3NT shows no five card major and a maximum. 4♣ is Gerber over any response.
2M: Both minors, singleton/void in M, forcing to 2NT. Responder can force on next round of bidding by bidding either major, with 3M showing a void and a game force.
2NT: Game invite.
3♣: ♦ and ♣ signoff.
3♦: ♦ and ♣ game force, usually no singleton.
3M: ♦ and ♣ game force,
singleton in M.
3NT: To play.
After 1♣-1♠-2NT:
3♣: Transfer to 3♦. After 3♦, responder bids:
Pass: Signoff in ♦s.
3M: Singleton/void in M, ♦ length, forcing to 3NT.
Responder can force on next round of bidding by bidding ♣s or
either major, with 4M showing a void
and a game force.
3NT: Mild slam try in ♦s.
4♦: Good slam try in ♦s, usually no major shortage.
3♦: Asks for a five card major. 3NT by opener shows no five card major. 4♣ is then Gerber.
3M: Both minors, singleton/void in M, forcing to 3NT. Responder can force on next round of bidding by bidding either major, with 4M showing a void and a game force.
3NT: To play.
4♦: ♣ and ♦ slam try, usually no singleton.
4M: ♣
and ♦ slam try, singleton in M.
4NT: Slam invite, flat hand.
[Asking for opener’s five card major]
The ETM Multi Victory provides several methods of finding if opener has a five card major. This includes:
[After 1♣-2♣ showing 5+♠s, 4+♥s, 0-9]
The 2♣ response to 1♣ is used to show both majors, 5+♠s, 4+♥s, 0-9. This allows for the 1♥ transfer response to deny 4+♥s if 0-9, so that opener usually plays the contract.
After 2♣, opener can bid:
Pass: 6+♣s, minimum hand, short majors.
2♦, 2NT: Asks, 2NT is a near game force ask with transfer responses.
3♣: Mild game interest with 7+♣s, non-forcing. With good game interest bid 2♦ first.
3♦: Like fourth suit forcing to game, asks for a stopper in ♦s or description.
3♥, 3♠: Mild game interest with a good fit in major suit.
2♥, 2♠, Game Bids: To play but responder can correct 3NT to 4♥ or 4♠ with extra distribution (if just 5-5 or 6-4 must be good suits).
After 1♣-2♣;2♦(asks):
2♥: 5+♠s, 4♥s, 0-6. 2♠ is now a signoff.
2♠: 5+♠s, 5♥s, 0-6. 3♥ is now a signoff.
2NT or higher: descriptive bid with 7-9
Now 2♠ is a signoff, 2NT ask for further description, three bids (except 3♥ over 2♠) show good game interest but not-forcing.
After 1♣-2♣;2NT(asks, near game force, with transfer responses):
3♣: 5-4 exactly in the majors, 3♦ asks for shape with 3♥=short ♣s, 3♠= short ♦s, 3NT=2-2 in minors.
3♦: 5-5 or better in majors. 3♥ now asks for shape information, 3♠ showing short ♣s.
3♥: 4♥s, 6+♠s. 3♠ now asks if minimum (responder must bid 3NT) or shape if maximum.
When opener reasks for shape, responder bids on four level to show shape if 7-9, minor bids showing shortness. Besides the reasks, opener’s other bids are non-forcing but still show very strong game interest.
[Total Try]
Sequences where opener or responder has raised partner’s major to the two level suffer from using game and slam tries together. When one player makes what seems to be a game try, partner evaluates as a game try, not a slam try. If partner had a slam try then will sometimes have to bid beyond game to show it. Total Try is a fix for this problem. After 1M-2M or any equivalent sequence (such as 1♣-1♦(♥s);2♥), the cheapest suit bid is either natural/semi-natural in that suit and forcing, or a slam try that did not want to splinter. Partner rebids in three steps, skipping notrump:
1st step: Asking partner what is held. (2NT if available can also be used as 1st step).
2nd step: Would accept game try and wants to play in M.
3M (3rd step): Would not accept game try.
Over the 1st step, partner bids:
Cheapest bid: Was a natural bid, but interested in alternative contracts, not just a game try.
3M: Was a game try.
4M: To play, perhaps bidding it just because partner didn’t reply 3M.
3NT: Slam try with flat balanced hand, also passable since partnership has lots of HCP so 3NT can be safer than 4M if trumps split badly.
Suit above 3M: Slam try with values/length in suit bid.
Over 2nd step, bidding as over 1st step, except cheapest bid not available so 3M shows that the bid over 2M was a natural bid, but had interest in other contracts.
Over 3M, bidding as over 1st step, except cheapest bid is not available.
Example sequences:
1♥-2♥;2♠(Total
Try)-3♣(1st step);3♦(♠s was natural/semi-natural,
interest in other contracts)-4♠.
1♠-2♠;3♣(Total Try)-3♠(would not accept game try);4♠(to play, perhaps had slam try but 3M is bad news).
1♦-1♠;2♠-3♣(Total Try);3♥(would accept game try);3♠(other contracts?)-3NT
1♣-1♥(♠s);2♠-3♣(Total Try);3X(any step)-4♣(slam try with ♣ values).
[Optional - Swaps over 1♦ Opening]
Some partnerships may desire to have a transfer type of effect over 1♦ openings, so that opener, if 14/15-16 balanced will play contracts in a major suit fit is found. To implemented this a swap is made, so that 1♥=4+♠s (can be 4-4 in majors), 1♠=♥s (not 4-4 in majors). The problem with this method is that ♠s can become unbiddable after the 1♠ response, when responder has 5+♥s and 4♠s and less than 11 HCP, and opener does not have enough to bid 2♠ over 1♠, which requires 16/17+. This problem is fixed by using modified two level responses, with associated complexities and the loss of the Useful Transfer to ♥s. Changes required are:
Ø 1♦-1♥;1♠ shows 4♥s and unbalanced hand. This is how a ♥ fit is found when opener has ♥s & ♦s.
Ø 1♦-2♦ shows ♠s, either a Useful Transfer in ♠s (6+♠s, constructive or better), or 0-7 with 4+♠s, 5+♥s and a hand that would signoff opposite a 15-16 notrump opening. Opener assumes the 0-7 hand and bids appropriate, often signing off in 2♥s. Then would a Useful Transfer in ♠s, responder bids again. For example: 1♦-2♦;2♥-2♠: Useful transfer in ♠s, constructive to poor GI, NF.
Ø 1♦-2♥ shows 5+♥s, 4♠s, 7/8-10. Responder can place contract, invite with 3M, or ask for shape with 2NT (3m shows 4-5 and shortness, 3♥ shows 6+♥s, 4♠s, 3NT shows 4-5-2-2, 3♠ is not bid so opener can play ♠s).
Playing swaps over 1♦ opening does make 4-4-4-1 bidding a little easier. When holding a 4-4-4-1 with a singleton ♠ open 1♦, then if partner responses 1♥ showing ♠s, just rebid 1♠ showing ♥s! If holding 4-4-4-1 with singleton ♥, open 1♣, and if partner responds showing ♥s, just rebid 1♠.
2♦/1m or 2♥/1m: Transfer to next major, six card or longer suit, useful values to minimum game going, about 8 to 14.
Example Hands:
a) Minimum hand, must have decent suit.
♠ AKT854
♥ 87
¨ J5
♣ 432
b) Maximum game invitational hand. Add queen of clubs to get maximum game going hand.
♠ AQT854
♥ A7
¨ Q5
♣ 432
c) In between hand.
♠ KQJ854
♥ K7
¨ J5
♣ 432
d) Game going hand.
♠ KQJ854
♥ Q7
¨ J5
♣ A32
By passed hand, 2X over 1m shows a GI & good 5+ suit (often just five) since no weak two opening.
All suit bids are
now forcing. To signoff at the three level, opener can use 2NT as Lebenshol here. If the opening is a 1♣ opening,
responder will bid 3♣ over 2NT unless holding 6 or longer in M (then 3M). If the opening is a 1¨, responder will bid 3¨ over 2NT
if does not prefer ♣s to ¨s,
3♣ if ♣s preferable to ¨s, or
could bid 3M with six. Example: Pass-1¨-Pass-2♥;Pass-2NT(Lebenshol)-Pass-3♣(asked
for, not ¨ fit or would have bid 3¨ instead)-
2M: Shows a minimum unbalanced hand with no fit (often singleton/void). Now responder only bids again with good/great GI values, or a distributional 6-4 or better hand.
Game bids: To play.
Non-jump suit bids: Natural, forcing to at least 3M.
Jump new suit bids: If below game, a jump new suit bid is a singleton/void, values for game but only slam interest opposite 11-14 with no wasted values in the short suit.
Jump in opener’s suit: Natural, long minor, fit for opener, slam try opposite 11-14.
2NT: Asks with at least some game interest. Responder rebids:
3 suit bid just below M: Retransfer, with no singleton/void, either minimum hand or a hand with game going values or very close to it. Note that the hand that is better than a minimum but not game going bids 3NT over 2NT.
3♣: Singleton/void in a minor, 6 in M, any strength.
3M: Singleton/void
in
3♠(if M=♥),
3♦(if M=♠):
Singleton/void in
3NT: No singleton/void, good game invitational hand.
4X: Singleton/void
in suit, 7+ in M.
4M: 7-2-2-2,
better than bidding 4M over opening
originally.
After responder’s rebid, 3M is to play (unless responder had original game going hand), 4M or 3NT is to play, and a new suit by opener, except for 4♣, shows values/length, a fit for M, and is a slam try. 4♣ is ORB for M after the 2NT ask and reply.
After the retransfer (e.g. 1♣-2♦;2NT-3♦), opener can bid:
3M: To play opposite minimum. Responder bids 3NT with game going values.
3NT: To play.
New suit (not 4♣): Slam interest opposite game going hand.
4♣: ORB for M.
After the 3♣ rebid, opener can bid 3♦ to ask:
3M: Singleton/void in opener’s minor, minimum hand.
3NT: Singleton/void in opener’s minor, more than a minimum hand.
3OM: Singleton/void in other minor, minimum hand.
4X: Singleton/void in other minor, more than a minimum hand, location of values.
After the 3♣ rebid, opener can bid 3M, which asks responder to pass if singleton/void in opener’s
minor, less than close to game going values, or to bid 3NT if singleton/void in
opener’s minor and game going values or close to it, or to bid 4M if singleton/void in other minor.
Example bidding:
1♣-2♥ (UT);2NT(asks)-3♠(short ♥s, minimum hand);4♣(ORB for ♠s)
1¨-2♦(UT);2NT(asks)-3♣(short in a minor);3♦(asks)-3♠(short ♦s, minimum);3NT(to play).
1♣-2♥;2NT(asks)-2♥(no shortness, minimum or game going);3♠(pass or bid)-3NT(game going).
1♣-2♥;2NT(asks)-3♦(short ♥s, not minimum);3NT(to play)
Gadget can be used to provide a bid relay over 1m-1M;2m sequences, thus providing the ability for game forcing hands to describe themselves, and to provide an extra bid after a two level fourth suit forcing sequence. It works by having the relay being either any GF hand, or a signoff in 2M.
Gadget is used after 1m-1M;2m and 1♦-1♠;2♣ when there is at least one bid available between opener’s last bid and 2M. The Gadget bid is the bid directly below 2M. The last bid in each of the following sequence is Gadget:
1) 1§-1♦(♥s);2§-2¨.
2) 1§-1♥(♠s);2§-2♥.
3) 1¨-1ª;2¨-2©.
4) 1¨-1ª;2§-2©.
In all sequences the relay is either any GF or a signoff in M.
Opener assumes that responder has a signoff and bids correspondingly. If opener replies to Gadget above 2M it shows a hand that is interested in game even opposite a signoff in M.
If opener rebids 2M in reply to Gadget, then all of responder’s bids above 2M are GF, natural. So, for example, to establish a GF in §s, responder can bid 1♦-1ª;2♦-2♥ (Gadget);2ª(in case signoff)-3§(natural, GF).
If opener rebids above 2M in reply to Gadget, showing a great hand, then responder, with a hand that used Gadget with GF values, must bid fourth suit forcing (if available), or 3¨ if a new suit, or on the four level. So, for example, 1♦-1ª;2♦-2♥(Gadget);3§ (game interest opposite signoff)-3♥(fourth suit).
When playing ETM Gadget, the direct bid of 2M is available, since with signoff values responder bids Gadget. 2M by responder shows useful values (ETM defines “useful” as approximately constructive to limit) with 5+ in M, 4+ in the suit the Gadget bid would be made in. It is semi-forcing – opener can pass if no game prospects but most hands find a bid. If the Gadget suit was ©s, after 1¨-1ª;2¨, then 2ª denies GI with 5+©s, since 1¨-1ª;2¨-3© shows 5-5+, GI.
If responder could have used Gadget but instead bids on three level it shows GI values. If responder bids 3¨ as a new suit it shows 6+ in the ¨s, exactly 4 in M and GI values. If responder makes a new suit rebid in ©s or §s it shows 5-5+, GI. If responder rebids 3M it shows a GI based on 6+ in M and fit for opener’s second suit.
1¨-1ª;2¨-2ª: Useful, with 5+ªs, 4+©s, semi-forcing.
1¨-1ª;2¨-2©: Signoff in ªs, or any GF.
1¨-1ª;2¨-2©;2ª-3¨: GF in ¨s.
1¨-1ª;2¨-3§: GI with 5+ªs, 5+§s.
1¨-1ª;2¨-2©;2ª-3§: GF with ªs & §s.
1§-1♥(♠s);2§-2♥;2♠-P: Signoff with ªs (6+ªs).
1§-1♥(♠s);2§-2♥;2ª-3§: GF with § fit.
1§-1♥(♠s);2§-2ª: Useful with 5+ªs, 4+♥s. 10 to 12, since with less can bid 1♣-2♣.
1§-1♥(♠s);2§-2♥;2ª-2NT: GF balanced.
1§-1♦(♥s);2§-2¨;2©-2ª: GF with ©s and ªs.
1§-1♦(♥s);2♣-2¨;2©-3©: GF with ©s
1§-1♦(♥s);2§-2¨;3©: Would bid 1§-1©;2§-2©;3© in standard.
1§-1♦(♥s);2§-3¨: GI with 6+¨s, 4©s.
1¨-1ª;2§-2©;2ª-3¨: GF with ¨ fit.
1¨-1ª;2§-2©:3ª Would bid 1¨-1ª-2§-2ª-3ª in standard.
1¨-1ª;2§-2ª Useful with 5+ªs, 4+©s.
1¨-1ª;2§-2©;2ª-3§: GF with § fit.
1¨-1ª;2§-2©;2ª-2NT: GF balanced.
After
The ETM Victory 1♦ opening is a natural non-forcing opening. It is often a balanced 14/15 to 16 and if so can have as few as three diamonds with longer clubs . The following are the hand types for the 1♦ opening:
1) Diamonds, 10/11-22, unbalanced.
2) 14/15-16 balanced, 3+ diamonds, can have longer clubs, no five card major.
General approach: natural with inverted minor, useful jump shifts. Notrump replies: 1NT: 4-8/9, 3NT: 13-15 (with 9-12 and no four card major respond 2♣ first). 1♦-2♣ is forcing to game if opener has 15-16 balanced.
|
Response |
Style |
Description |
|
Pass |
Weak |
Standard but stretch to respond. |
|
1♥, 1♠ |
Natural |
4+ in M. May have longer minor. |
|
1NT |
Weak |
4-8, no four card major, rarely 5+♦s or 6+§s. No game opposite 14/15-16 balanced. |
|
2♣ |
Natural |
Natural, three or longer clubs, 9+, no four card major. Can have balanced 9-12 (with no four card major) even if 4/5♦s & 3§s. If long ♣s can be a little less than 9 if enough to force to game opposite 14/15-16 balanced. |
|
2¨, 2♥ |
Transfer |
Six or longer in major suit one above bid made (2♦=♥s, 2♥=♠s), game forcing. |
|
2♠ |
Limit+ |
Limit raise or better, 9+, enough for game opposite 14/15+. |
|
2NT |
Limit |
Spread out values, balanced, 4/5♦s, enough for game opposite 14/15+, 9-11. Denies a four card major. |
|
3♣ |
To Play |
To play opposite 14/15-16 balanced, 6+§s. |
|
3¨ |
Preemptive |
To play opposite 14/15-16 balanced or less, 5+¨s. |
|
3♥, 3♠ |
Natural |
|
|
3NT |
To play. |
About 13-15, no four card major, balanced. |
|
4♣ |
Fit Showing |
5+¨s, 4+♣s, values for at least to play in 4¨. |
|
4¨, 4♥, 4♠, 5♣, 5¨ |
Preemptive |
Long suit, not much in values, sets trump suit so if opener bids it is a cuebid, and 4NT is RKCB for suit. |
|
Response |
14/15-16 |
|
1M |
1NT or 2M with four card support. |
|
1NT |
Pass |
|
2♣ |
2NT |
|
2¨,2♥ |
2NT, 3M |
|
2♠ |
2NT/3NT |
|
2NT |
3NT |
|
3§, 3♦, 3NT |
Pass |
|
Other |
Depends |
[Rebidding after 1¨ Opening with 14/15-16 balanced]
1¨-1M;1NT shows 14/15-16 balanced or 14 with a difficult to bid hand (can have singleton spade if 1¨-1♠;1NT). With 14/15-16 balanced, after 1¨-1M opener will rebid 2M with four card support or 1NT. Thus 1¨-1♥;1♠ always promises an unbalanced hand.
See the section on 1XYZ for 1¨-1M;1NT sequences.
1¨-1M: Always 4+ in suit, bid longest major, 1♥ if 4-4, 1♠ if 5-5 or 6-6.
1¨-1M;2M: May be three card raise if singleton/void held, up to 14/15-16 balanced.
1¨-1M;3M: Unbalanced raise, four card support, about 15-17. Cheapest bid asks for singleton/void, 4M showing none (i.e. 5-2-2-4).
1¨-1♠;3♥: Four card support, 15-17, singleton/void in ♥s.
1¨-1M;4¨: Long suit, 4+ support for M, game going values.
1¨-1M;4M: 5-2-2-4 shape, 19+ HCP.
1¨-1M;Double Jump new suit: splinter, singleton/void in suit, 4+ in M, 18+.
1¨-1M;2M-2NT asks: 2NT is an artificial game try/asking bid – see the section on common methods after minor suit openings.
1¨-1M;2M-new suit: Natural, shows location of values, game try or stronger.
1¨-1M;2M-3M: Sequences not in competition show good trump support. In competition to play.
1¨-1M;2M-3NT: Choice of game, opener to pass with spread out values even if 4 in M.
1¨-1M;2M-jump new suit: Singleton or void in suit bid, slam try.
[1¨-2♣ and Responses]
1¨-2♣: Three or longer ♣s, 9+, no four card major unless balanced GF, can be 9-12 balanced without 4 card major.
After 1¨-2♣:
2¨: Unbalanced hand, less than 4♣s, not enough to establish GF opposite 9-10 balanced, 5+¨s or 4-4-4-1 exactly. After this the following special sequences are used:
Pass: No game possible, not 6+§s unless ♦ fit, often 9-10 balanced.
2♥: Artificial GF. Asks for further description. Opener bids out shape, with any bid above 3§ denying 2§s, and 2NT showing 6+♦s and 2§s. 3♠ over 2♥ is used to show exactly 3-4-5-1, so that 3♥ must show 4-6 or better. Responder’s cheapest bid below 3NT continues to asks for further shape information, and 4 of either minor at any time is ORB for that minor.
2♠: Artificial GF with 5 or longer §s. After this minor suits are natural, major bids show weak/short suits, 2NT implies majors stopped or partial stopped.
2NT: 10/11-12 balanced, not-forcing. After this minor bids natural non-forcing, major bids show weak/short suits.
3§: Long §s and GI or near GI. 3♦ is natural and semi-forcing, major bids show weak/short suits.
3♦: GI with ♦ fit (a near GI can just pass 2♦). Major bids now show weak/short suit.
3♥, 3♠: Singleton/void in suit bid, §s & ♦s.
3NT: To play.
4§: ORB in §s.
4♦: ORB in ♦s.
2♥: Artificial, enough for a GF opposite 9-10 balanced, either balanced 14/15-16 with a major and a minor (4-4 or better, usually 4-4) or 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3 exactly OR unbalanced and always less than 3♣s. After 2♥:
2♠: Artificial GF asks for hand type, can be balanced or with clubs. Opener rebids:
2NT: Balanced major & minor or 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3 hand. All bids but 3♣ show ♣s with weakness and/or shortness in suit bid. 3♣ asks hand type:
3♦: 4♥s. 3♥ asks minor: 3♠=4/5♣s, 3NT=4/5♦s.
3♥: 4♠s & 4/5♣s.
3♠: 4♠s & 4/5♦s.
3NT: 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3
3♣: Semi-balanced or unbalanced hand with 2♣s, either 5-4-2-2 or 6/7♦s.
3M shows weakness and has ♣s. 3♦ asks:
3M: 4 in
3NT: No four card major, 6/7♦s.
4♣/4♦: Big hand, 6/7+♦s, no four card major.
3♦: 6+♦s and singleton/void in ♣s, not 4♠s. 3♥ asks if 4♥s,
3♥: 4♠s, 5+♦s, singleton/void ♣. 3♠ asks if 6+♦s, 3NT & 4♣ say no, 4♣ with extras.
3♥: 4♥s, 5♦s, singleton ♣. [Note switch of majors on these sequences]
3NT: 5♦s, 4♥s, 4♠s.
4♣: 5♦s, 4♥s, 4♠s, big hand.
2NT: ♣s and GF+ now. Prefer 2♠ if would position hand from wrong side for notrump.
3♣: 7/8-9 HCP with 6+♣s, not-forcing opposite singleton/void ♣.
3♦: Forcing, ♣s & ♦s.
3M: Major suit weakness & ♣s, GF+.
3NT: To play unless opener has 18+ unbalanced hand.
Opener’s rebid after 1♦-2♣ continued…
2♠: Artificial, 4+§s & 4/5+♦s, unbalanced hand, if less than GF exactly 4♣s (this is called a minimum), if GF+ (this is called a maximum) then 5+♣s or 6+♦s & 4+♣s or very strong 2-2-5-4. After this 3♣ and 3♦ are to play opposite minimum, major bids show weak/short suit, 2NT asks for shape/strength, 3♣ showing minimum, and with maximum 3♦ is 6+♦s, 3M is short suit, and 3NT is very strong 2-2-5-4. 3NT over 2♠ is to play opposite minimum, but opener bids again with maximum.
2NT: 14/15-16 balanced, GF, not a hand with a major & a minor or 3-3-3-4/3-3-4-3 exactly (bid 2♥, then 2NT). After this 3§ asks for further shape information while 3♦ shows long §s interested in slam and major bids show weak/short suit. After 3♣ asks:
3♦: 5/6♦s or 4-4+ in the minors. 3♥ asks which, 3♠=minors, 3NT showing 5/6♦s.
3♥: 4♥s, either 4-4-3-2 or 3-4-3-3 exactly. 3♠ asks if 4♠s, 3NT is no.
3♠: 4-3-3-3 exactly.
3NT: 5/6♣s.
3♣: Unbalanced hand with 4♣s, no four card major, GF. Major bids show weak/short suit. 3♦ asks for major suit weakness, with 3NT showing a 2-2-5-4 but not very strong (bid 2♠ with very strong).
3♦: 6+♦s, 3♣s, unbalanced hand, GF. Major bids now show weak/short suits.
3M: Singleton
or void in M, 3/4§s,
5♦s, 4 in
3NT: 6+♦s, great suit, stoppers in majors, singleton §. Like 1m-1M;3NT.
4♣: 6+♦s, 5+♣s, great hand. 4♦ is ORB in ♦s.
1m-1X-2R, (R=Reverse): 2X shows 5+ suit, F. It may be weak just showing length, but can be big too.
2NT or fourth suit forcing, whichever is cheaper, is Lebenshol, showing weakness and puppets to cheapest bid, after which responder will pass or show nature of weak hand. With GF hand opener does not bid cheapest bid.
1m-2♠ shows a limit raise in opener’s minor, promising some game interest or a stronger hand, about 9+, and shows four or more in the minor (since if opener does not have four or more in minor then will have 14/15+ balanced and enough for game in notrump). Prefer 2NT if balanced and spread out values with 9-11. Note that after 1m-2♠ a rebid of 4m by either partner is always ORB with m as trumps. After 2♠:
2NT: 14/15-18 balanced if §s=m, 14/15-16 balanced if ♦s=m. Establishes GF. Now 3m shows 6+ in suit, and new suits show shortness, at most a weak doubleton and often a singleton/void.
3NT: If m=♦s, 14/15-16 balanced and very flat. If m=§s, 16/17-18 balanced and very flat.
3m: Minimum unbalanced opener, signoff opposite limit raise. New suits now forcing to game.
3om: Unbalanced
hand, more than a minimum, no short/weak major, can be weak/short in om or not.
3M: Unbalanced hand, more than minimum, shows suit short/weak in M, at most a weak doubleton.
3NT: More than the 2NT response but not a lot
extra, 6+ in m, no short/weak suit.
Jump new suits: Singleton or void in suit bid, great fit for
m.
These
are 1m-2♦ and 1m-2♥, a transfer to the next
major. When these bids are game forcing, opener completes the transfer if
unbalanced hand, or bids 2NT if balanced, or bids 3 of responder’s major if
balanced and wants to play in M, not
notrump. Responder then continues
bidding description.
After
1m-2NT(9-11),
3m and game bids are to play. After 2NT, 3M can be natural or just a stopper without a stopper in the other
major – responder first treats it as a stopper ask in
1m-3M is a precise bid, so opener can place contract, cuebid a suit to establish M as trump and invite slam, or bid 4NT as RKCB with M as trump.
1m-1M;3NT: singleton in M, solid minor suit and stoppers in unbid suits or semi-solid suit and 1 ½ stoppers plus in unbid suits. Game Forcing so 4m is now slam try, and if responder bids 4m or 4 of a new suit, 4NT is RKCB for m by either player. 4NT directly over 3NT is invitational, and 5♣ over 3NT is Super Gerber, asking for aces.
1m-1M-2NT rebid by opener shows 6+ in the minor, 2 or 3 in M, no other four card suit. If not 3 in M it shows a hand stronger than just bidding 3m, about 17/18+ HCP, with some spread out values (if concentrated values then making a reverse or jump shift into suit with values). If 3 in M has a hand that would bid 1m-1M-3m in standard or stronger. Over 2NT:
- A bid of 3m shows a poor hand, up to 7 HCP, and denies 5+ in M; opener will usually pass unless holding a near game force in own hand.
- 3om is an artificial asking bid and gives room for opener to describe hand type; it is GF unless responder passes opener’s rebid. After 1¨-1M;2NT-3♣, opener replies:
- With not 3 in M opener bids 3NT, showing about 17/18-22 (i.e. up to a maximum for the opening bid). Opener can also rebid m if holding a shapely hand that does not want to commit to 3NT, however this is more likely with ♦s, since opener can rebid 3♦ and still not miss 3NT.
- Opener with 3 in M can bid 3M to show a minimum (15-17), or bid 3OM (artificial) to show a maximum (17/18-22). So 1§-1♠;2NT-3♦;3♥ shows 17/18+ and 3♠s.
- After opener’s rebid over 3♣, game bids are to play whenever possible and new suits by responder show values/length.
- 3M is artificial and shows length in om. It is the replace bid for 3om which is used to ask.
- Jump bids by responder over 2NT show shortness and fit for opener’s suit. Example: 1♦-1♠;2NT-4♣ (short ♣s).
- 4m over 2NT shows fit for the minor and is 1430 RCKB for the minor.
- A jump bid to 4 of responder’s suit is to play. Thus 1♦-1♥;2NT-4♥ is to play.
- All other bids over 2NT are natural and GF. For example 1♦-1♥;2NT-3♥ 6+♥s, GF.
Examples:
1♦-1♥;2NT-3§(asks);3♥(15-17, 3♥s)-4♥
1♦-1♠;2NT-3♠(artificial, shows §s);3NT
Note that with the 2NT 6+ of in a minor bid, reverses and jump shifts by opener after 1m-1M are usually natural, with 4+ in the suit bid.
1m-1M-3m denies 3 in M (otherwise use 2NT).
[1m-1M-2M-2NT asks]
After 1m-1M;2M, 2NT is a forcing asking
bid. Opener bids 3m with only 3 in M and short in OM, 3om with 3 in M
and short in om, 3M with 4
in M and less than 14/15-16 balanced, 3NT with 4 in M &
14/15-16 balanced, and all other bids show 4 in M and descriptive. If not playing ETM Total Victory, then after
1♣ opening, 3OM shows exactly 2♦s, 3 or 4 in M, and 3
or 4 in
1XYZ structure, after 1X-1Y-1Z (e.g. 1♣-1♥;1♠, 1¨-1♠;1NT, 1♣-1¨;1♥, 1♥-1♠;1NT etc.). Not used when playing transfers over 1♣ and opener completes transfer to major. Not used after 1NT rebid when playing ETM Multi Victory structure.
After any 1XYZ sequence:
1) 2♣ asks opener to bid 2¨, then passes or makes any bid to show GI hand. If opener instead bids above 2¨ over 2♣, it shows a hand that cannot afford for responder to pass with a ¨ signoff; after this responder only non-GF is 3¨.
- 2♣-2¨;2NT offers opener choice of contract with 5 in responder’s suit, usually balanced.
- 2♣-2¨;3NT offers opener choice of game with 5 in responder’s suit. Use this sequence, not 2¨ to avoid revealing too much about opener’s hand.
- After 2♣-2¨ and responder’s GI rebid, opener usually places contract, jumps in suit below game to force, or makes NF non-jump rebid.
- 1X-1M;1Z-2♣;2¨-3M shows a six card suit invite, but one that was one inappropriate for immediate 1X-2M useful jump shift.
2) 2¨ is GF Checkback Stayman, opener bidding with most normal hands 2♥, 2♠ or 2NT to give responder room to show nature of GF hand. When holding a balanced hand, opener only bids above 2NT with 3 in responder’s suit, and shows description of hand. 2¨ still GF Checkback Stayman by ph over 1NT rebids, but over suit rebids 2¨ by ph is invite in ¨s. Thus pass-1¨;1♥-1NT;2¨ is still GF Checkback Stayman, but pass-1¨;1♥-1♠;2¨ is just an invite in ¨s.
Since 1XYZ is available, responder’s second bid of 1♠, 2♥, 2♠, 3♣ are natural with less than game invitational values (use 2♣ with ¨ signoff). The sequence 1♣-1¨;1♥-2♠ is natural, GF with 4+¨s, 4+♠s.
3¨ and above (3M and 3OM) are GF (e.g. 1♣-1¨-1♥-3♦ is forcing), showing a relatively pure hand in the suits bid. For example 1¨-1♠;1NT-3♥ is GF, good 5-5 or better, values in majors. The sequence 1m-1♥-1NT-2♠ is special: it shows 4-4 in the majors, GI.
Style consideration: after 1m-1M;1NT-2♣;2¨-2M, opener with no fit for M should not reveal much of hand since will often be playing in 3NT. If opener rebids 2NT over 2M, responder should continue to show shape with 5-5.
[Unbalanced hand shapes out]
After 1m-1Y-1Z
where Z is a suit, opener is unbalanced.
If responder bids 2♦ to ask shape, opener should shape out, and
use 2M to show 2 in M, and 3M to show 3 in M, and
2NT with 1 in M and stopper in unbid
suit. For example: 1♦-1♥;1♠-2♦;2♥ would show 2♥s – if
4-3-5-1 rebid 3♥ with 3♥s, if 4-1-5-3 with a ♣ stopper rebid
2NT, and if 4-1-5-3 but no ♣ stopper rebid 2♠ (which does not
promise 5♠s).
[No fourth suit forcing]
Note: No fourth suit forcing when 1XYZ available.
[1XYZ in competition]
1XYZ is still on in competition if available. For example:
1¨-Pass-1♥-1♠-1NT-Pass-2¨ is still artificial GF.
When playing ETM Victory but not ETM Multi Victory (with transfer responses to 1♣), then 1XYZ is used after 1♣-suit response-1NT. In situations the 1NT rebid has two distinct ranges, the main range, and a secondary range, which promises a particular hand type. After 1♣-1M;1NT, the main range is 16/17-18, and the secondary range is 14/15-16 with 3 in M. After 1♣-1¨;1NT, the main range is 16/17-18, and the secondary range is 14/15-16 with exactly 3-3-2-5 shape.
After 1♣-any;1NT the 1XYZ methods used above are still used, but with these two changes:
2♣: Still puppets to 2¨, but instead of 2¨ opener rebids 2M with a five card major. Over 2M, 3¨ is a signoff with ¨s, 3NT offers choice of games, and all other bids are game invitational.
2¨: Still Checkback Stayman, but it is only game forcing if opener holds the main range. It is only invitational opposite the secondary range. After 2¨ opener rebids 2M with the secondary range (if 1♣-1¨;1NT-2¨, then 2♥ shows the secondary range), and all other bids establish a GF. Opener bids above 2NT with the main range and 3 in M, describing the hand further. After the 2M secondary range response, 2NT and 3M are the only non-forcing calls. After 1♣-1¨;1NT-2¨-2♥(secondary range), 2NT or 3¨ are the only non-forcing calls.
1¨-1♥;1NT-2♣;2¨-Pass: How to signoff in ¨s.
1♣-1♥;1NT-2♣;2¨-Pass: How to signoff in ¨s, so can bid 1M even if long ¨s.
1♣-1♠;1NT-2¨;2♥: 4♥s, denies 3♠s, game forcing.
1¨-1♥;1NT-2¨;2NT: Denies 4♠s and 3♥s, shows 14/15-16, game forcing.
1¨-1♠;1NT-2♣;2¨-2♥: 5♠s, 4♥s, game invite.
1♣-1♠;1NT-2¨;2♠: 3♠s & 15-16, not game forcing. 2NT to play and 3♠ invites.
1♣-1♥;1NT-2¨;3♠: 17-19, 4♠s, 3♥s.
1♣-1♥;1NT-2♣;2¨-2♥: 5♥s, game invite.
1♣-1♥;1NT-2♣;2¨-3¨: GI with 4♥s, long ¨s.
1¨-1♠;1NT-2♣;2¨-3NT: 5♠s, choice of game.
1♣-1¨;1♥-2♣;2¨: Still ¨ signoff.
1♣-1¨;1♠-2♣;2¨-2♠: GI with ♠s.
1¨-1♥;1♠-2¨: GF Checkback, artificial.
1¨-1♥;1♠-2♣;2♥: To strong to risk pass of 2¨.
1♣-1♥;1NT-2♣;2♠: 2♠ shows 16/17-18 & 5♠s.
1♣-1♠;1NT-2¨;2♥-2NT;3♥: 3♠ shows 16/17-18 & 5♥s.
1♣-1¨;1NT-2♣;2♥: 2♥ shows 16/17-18 & 5♥s.
1♣-1¨;1NT-2¨;2♠-2NT;3♠: 3♠ shows 16/17-18 & 5♠s.
1♣-1¨;1NT-2♣;2♥-3¨: 2♥ shows 16/17-18 & 5♥s, 3¨ signoff in ¨s.
1♣-1♥;1NT-2♣;2♠-3¨: 2♠ shows 16/17-18 & 5♠s, 3¨ signoff in ¨s.
5+ in major, 1NT response is semi-forcing. Can be 5-3-3-2 & 11-15 HCP or if great
suit, but if 11-13 usually 2 in
[Raises]
1M-1NT-2X-3M: Limit raise with 3 trumps or 4-3-3-3.
2M: very
often tends to have 3 trumps only or 4-3-3-3, standard raise (does not promise
constructive values). With 4-5 HCP, one
can decide to bid 1NT forcing and rebid 2M.
2NT: L+ with 4 trumps, not 4-3-3-3, (can be 5 trumps and 5-3-3-2), or 4-3-3-3 with 3 or 4 trumps and 13-15 exactly. See section below.
Cheapest jump shift: 4 trumps (or 5-3-3-2), constructive hand, about 7 to 9 HCP.
3M: 4 trumps (or 5-3-3-2), weak raise, about 4 to 6 HCP.
Jump Shifts: 4+ in M, values/length in a suit, forcing to 3M, useful or better. Not cheapest jump shift. Natural except if the jump shift is one step below 3M it shows the suit that is the cheapest jump shift. 1♥-3♦ shows ♠s, 1♠-3♥ shows ♣s, 1♥-3♣ and 1♠-3♦ are both natural fit showing bids.
3NT: Singleton or void in
4m: Singleton or void in suit bid, values for 4M. If singleton limited hand 10-13/14.
4M: 5+
in M, not 5-3-3-2, 0 to 9 HCP. New suits now ask if suit controlled (5M if not).
If responder bids 3NT or 4m, showing a singleton/void, and then bids 4NT RKCB at the next bid, it always promises a void, and opener answers RKCB without including the ace of the void suit (exclusion).
Note that 4♥/1♠ and 3♠ or 4♠ over 1♥ are not raises, but to play.
[Game Tries]
Natural game tries, with 2NT forcing game try+ balanced.
1M-2M-3M sequences not in competition ask for good trump support.
[Passed Hand Bidding]
1M: can have six card suit if 13+, (in first or second seat usually 14+).
2♦: Long ♦s, NF, less than invitational values.
2♥ by ph/1♠: 9-11, 5 or 6 card suit. 2NT is Lebensohl by opener. Higher by opener is GF.
Jump rebids are splinters with ♥ support.
2♣ by ph: Drury,
2♥: 3 trumps, minimum, or 4 trumps sub-minimum.
2♠: 3 trumps, maximum, no singleton/void.
2NT: 4 trumps, decent hand, no shortness (could bid 2NT over 1M).
3♣: 3 trumps, maximum, unknown
singleton/void. 3♦ asks shortness,
3M=♦s.
3♦: 4 trumps, great hand, no shortness (could bid 2NT over 1M).
[Other]
1XYZ for 1♥-1♠-1NT: see 1XYZ section for structure. 1NT shows 11-15 HCP with usually two or singleton spade. With 3♠s and 5-3-3-2 open 1NT if 11-13, or raise 1♠ to 2♠ with 14-15 HCP.
1M-2NT: Limit Raise or Better, four + trumps but not 4-3-3-3, (can be 5 trumps and 5-3-3-2), or 4‑3-3-3 with 3 or 4 trumps and 13-15 exactly. The purpose of putting the 4-3-3-3 shapes & 13-15 into the response is to provide a hand type than can easily double the opponents if they enter the bidding.
Normally opener makes one of two bids opposite 2NT (see passed hand bidding below):
3♣: Would either pass limit raise or would have possible slam interest. If would pass a limit raise no singleton or void is held (a hand with a singleton or void must accept limit raise).
3¨: GF, would accept limit raise but no slam interest opposite
game force without much extra values, 11-15, 15 only if 5-3-3-2 shape, 14 not
with 6+ in M). If playing ETM Multi Victory, where 2M is opened with 10-13 and 6+ in M, this then shows exactly 5 in M.
The full structure after 1M-2NT:
3♣: Would either pass limit raise (and no singleton/void) or would have possible slam interest (14/15+). Responder now bids:
3¨: asks shortness (and if opener has shortness then has slam interest hand). Opener bids:
· New suit with singleton/void, showing 14+.
· 3M with hand that would pass limit raise (and therefore no shortness). Responder can now bid 3NT to suggest that as an alternative contract or cuebid if slam possible.
· 3NT with a hand with no singleton/void but good slam interest (16/17+).
·
4M with a hand with no singleton/void but mild slam interest
(14/15-16).
3M: Limit raise, now cheapest bid is shortness asking (e.g. 3NT/3♠), and other bids are cuebids.
4M: To play.
3NT: 4-3-3-3, 13-15.
New suit: shows singleton but not void, slam try, more than an original splinter. It is not void since all voids splinter immediately. It shows more than a direct splinter, so 14+.
3¨: Would accept limit raise but no slam interest opposite game force without much extra values (about 11-15, 15 only with 5-3-3-2 shape, 14 not with 6+ in M). Responder then:
- Bids 4M to play with limit raise or with game force without much extra values.
- Bids 3♥ to ask hand type. Now opener bids new suit on four level to show singleton/void (and if ♥=M then 4♥ shows ♠ singleton/void). 3♠ shows no singleton/void but some shape, and 3NT shows 5-3-3-2 distribution, any doubleton.
-
Bids 3♠ to show singleton
in
- Bids 3NT to show 4-3-3-3 hand type, spread out values, not-forcing.
- Shows a minor suit singleton by bidding suit on four level, with possible slam interest.
Above 3¨: natural
suit, at least mild slam interest @ 3 level, good slam interest if 4 level.
[Showing or Asking by Responder]
Since opener will play M contract, responder with shortness shows it (via splinter or 2NT then shortness bid), so that opener’s hand is less revealed. Only with no shortness does responder ask opener’s shortness, to better evaluate the degree values are working or not.
[2NT by passed hand]
Good limit raise values by passed hand with simple responses:
3M: would not accept limit raise.
3♣: asks singleton, 3M = ♣ singleton, 3NT=none. 3M rebid NF by either player.
Game bids: 4M to play, 3NT suggestion.
Other: natural, slam tries.
3M by either hand shows poor hand.
Double or Redouble shows defensive cards, by responder often is the 4-3-3-3 hand with 13-15 HCP.
New suit length/value showing.
Pass shows balanced hand or semi-balanced hand, not singleton or void in opponent’s suit, better than 3M.
Bidding reverts to natural.
Example:
1♥-Pass-2NT-3♠;Pass(balanced or semi-balanced, no short ♠s)-Pass-Double(Defensive)
[2/1 GF]
All 2/1 bids are GF.
[Opener bids shape over 2/1]
- Opener shows shape, bidding 2NT with hand with no other good bid and bad M suit, and bidding 2M with no other good bid and good M suit and 14+.
- Three level new suit rebids show a bit extra shape (5-5) or values (13+), prefer 2M or 2NT otherwise.
- 3NT shows a 15-16 HCP hand with 2 in responder’s suit.
- Opener’s jump rebids are splinters: Example: 1♥-2§-3¨: club support, singleton or void in ¨.
- Opener’s jump rebid of suit shows powerful suit, sets trumps.
[Responder 2/1 3NT rebids]
After 1M-2X;2Y-? 3NT shows a minimum hand, no interest in exploring further. Use 2NT if available with stronger hand to find out more information.
[2/1 Competitive]
They can never play contract undoubled. Doubles are for penalty, passes are forcing and show two-way values.
[Partly Serious 3NT – Mild Slam try]
General rule: If both players know there is a double fit, 3NT is partly serious slam interest, not to play.
On the following sequences, 3NT is not to play but artificially shows part slam interest, with an immediate cuebid showing serious slam interest.
1M-2X;Raise of X-3M;3NT
1M-2X;Splinter Raise of X-3M;3NT
Where 3NT is a partly serious slam try, if instead of bidding 3NT opener makes a cuebid, it shows serious interest. For example 1♥-2♣;3♣-3♥;4♣ is a cuebid in ♣s, serious slam interest.
[1NT Forcing]
The 1NT semi-forcing response can be passed by a first or second seat opener, but only with 11-12 and either 5♠s & 3-3 in the minors (i.e. after a 1♠ opening), or 5♥s & 4♠s (i.e. after a 1♥ opening). If the opponents compete after opener passes, responder will know exactly what to bid. 1NT is semi-forcing by ph and denies 3 in M unless very flat hand.
[1NT Forcing Replies]
2§ shows 4+§s or 5-3-3-2 with 3§s & 11-15. 2♦ shows 4+, or 3-5-3-2 or 5-3-3-2 exactly with 14-15 HCP. If 4-5 exactly in the majors, bid longest minor or if 4-5-2-2 exactly 2♣). Responder freely raises 2♦ with 4♦s, since opener will accept GI if 5-3-3-2 since 14-15.
1♥-1NT;2♠ is strong, 16/17+ HCP.
1M-1NT;2NT shows a balanced or semi-balanced hand with 5 or 6 in M, 18+, usually 5-4-2-2 shape or 6-3‑2-2 or 6-3-3-1 with singleton honor. 3♣ asks which, with 3NT showing 5-4-2-2 with 4♣s – see Cheapest Bid Asking section below. New suits forcing over 2NT.
1M-1NT;3X: strong jump shift, 4+ in X or good 3 in X & 6 in M & an outside singleton.
1M-1NT;3M shows a good suit & good hand.
1M-1NT;3NT shows a raise to 3M that thinks notrump should be fine place to play, but not a solid suit.
1M-1NT;4X: shows a long 7+ M suit, shortness in suit bid, slam interest.
1M-1NT;4M shows a long suit, play for game but not great values, about 14-16 HCP.
If playing ETM Multi
Victory 1M-1NT;2M shows 13/14-17, 6+ in M.
Over this new suits at three level are natural, but if in a minor can be
a game try in M with values in the
minor – opener treats as natural & forcing, but if responder corrects to M it was a game try. For example 1♥-1NT;2♥-3§(natural or game try);4§-4♥(was game try).
1♥-1NT;2♥-2♠ is always a game
try since can’t have 4+♠s.
[Rebids]
1M-1NT;2X-Pass: Signoff, prefer 2M with 2 in M and some values.
1M-1NT;2X-3M: L with 3 trumps or 4-3-3-3.
1M-1NT;2m-2NT: GI, 11-12.
1M-1NT;2X or 2M-new suit: Long suit, less than GI values if
on two level, long suit.
1M-1NT;2X-jump to 3Y: Long suit, GI values.
1M-1NT;2X or 2M-jump four level new suit: values/length in suit bid, fit for opener’s second bid.
Example: 1♠-1NT-2♥-4♣ (♥ fit & ♣ values/length).
[Delayed 2NT by opener]
1M-1NT;2X-2Y;2NT and 1♥-1♠-1NT-2X-2Y-2NT: 15 to 16, natural
bidding afterwards. This is not used in
ETM Total Victory after 1M-1NT;2m-2M
where 2M is only 5-8 (so opener only
bids if 17+ now).
[1NT Forcing Competitive]
After 1M-P;1NT and opponent competes, doubles of suit bids are for takeout by either player, but passable. Responder’s double shows about 9 to 11 HCP.
After 1M-P;1NT-any-opener bids second suit, responder’s double is for penalty, opener’s shows extra values.
[Overview]
Playing Total Victory, after a major suit opening, forcing 1NT response, and a 2NT or jump shift rebid (to the three level) by opener, a rebid by responder of the cheapest suit on the three level is “Cheapest Bid Asking” (CBA). 3ª, if not the cheapest suit, is the usual replacement bid for the cheapest bid, and shows whatever the cheapest bid would have shown – see exceptions below.
[Cheapest Bid Asking]
CBA is used after a major suit opener jump shifts over a forcing notrump response or a 1ª response to 1©. The cheapest bid asks opener to describe hand further and confirms a game force. After opener’s reply, responder has two artificial bids available:
1) If the opening bid suit cannot be bid below game, then the cheapest suit bid below game in the major suit, not including opener’s second suit, by responder artificial shows the opening bid major suit and some slam interest, often with an original limit raise. For example 1ª-1NT-3¨-3©(asks)-3NT-4§(shows ªs, some slam interest). 1ª-1NT-3§-3¨(asks)-3NT-4¨ shows the ªs hand.
2) A bid of opener’s second suit on the four level, if a minor, is ORB for that minor. After 1ª-1NT-3♦-3♥(asks)-3NT-4¨ is ORB for ♦s.
A jump to 4NT, or 4NT directly over 3NT, is natural by responder, slam
invitational, usually about
[Suit Replacement for CBA]
When CBA is used, then a replacement is usually available for the loss of this natural bid, which is always 3♠ (regardless if M=♠ or not). After opener rebids 2NT or makes a jump shift then 3ª shows the suit the CBA is made in. For example 1©-1NT;3§-3ª shows ¨s, since 3¨ bid is CBA, and likewise 1ª-1NT;3§-3ª shows ¨s, since 3¨ asks. Finally 1ª-1NT;3©-3ª asks, but there is no replacement bid.
[Bad raise in M]
If responder has bid 1NT
forcing with a bad raise in M, then
over opener’s jump shift or 2NT rebid, responder must jump to 4M.
So for example 1♥-1NT;3♦-4♥
shows a bad raise in M (3 to 6 HCP).
[CBA After Opener’s 2NT]
Responder uses 3♣ to ask about opener’s hand.
Continued on next page…
[CBA After Opener’s Jump Shift]
Responder uses CBA asking here since uncertain where or how high to play hand. Opener’s duty is to show nature of hand: the reason for jump shift. Opener does not bid above 3NT unless shapely hand. New suits at the four level show exactly 4 in opener’s second suit, extra shape and a fragment in the suit bid (thus short in the other suit). If opener jump shifted in a minor, 3NT shows a 5-4 hand type and a stopper in om. If m=§s, 3M shows 6 in M, but after 1ª-1NT;3¨-3© then 3ª shows stopper in ©s. Note opener should bid 2NT instead of three of a minor if 5-4 and either both side suits stopped or two doubletons, so when opener makes a jump shift usually not semi-balanced but at least 5-4-3-1 shape.
a) ª KQJ42 b) ª KQJ42 c) ª KQJT32
© T © J © J2
¨ AKQ92 ¨ AKJ9 ¨ AK9
§
After 1ª-1NT;3¨-3© (cheapest suit, bid 3ª to show ©s), opener rebids:
a) 4¨ showing a two suiter.
b) 3NT showing a power jump shift with a 5-4 and a stopper in §s.
c) 4ª showing a hand with 3¨s & 6+ªs. With one less © and one more ¨, rebid would be 4§ showing shapely hand & short ©s.
After a), the 4¨ response, responder can bid 4©, the cheapest suit bid to show ªs and slam interest, for otherwise would just bid 4ª. After b), the 3NT response, responder can bid 4§, the cheapest suit bid to show ªs and slam interest. After c), the 4ª response, the 5§ response is a cuebid, as the cheapest suit bid only applies if it is below game in the major suit.
For the use of 4NT, after a), the 4¨ response, responder can bid 4NT, RKCB for ¨s. After b), the 3NT response, responder can bid 4¨, ORB for ¨s, or 4NT natural with about 11-12. After c), the 4ª response, 4NT is RKCB for ªs.
[Overview – Simple Version]
Playing Total Victory, after 1♥-1♠ in an uncontested auction, there is a key improvement:
1♥-1♠;2♣ is artificial, bid with intermediate.
This is on opposite passed hand as well, but is on in competition only after 1♥-Double-1♠-Pass.
[Improving 1♥-1♠]
After 1♥-1♠, responder rebids:
1NT: balanced or semi-balanced, can have a singleton ♠, not with 3♠s. Includes all hands up to good 15 with exactly 4♣s and 5♥s.
2♣: 14/15+. One of these hand types:
a) good 15-18 with 4+♣s.
b) 14-17 with 6+♥s.
c) 14-17 with 3 or 4♠s, if 4♠s only 14-15 and not 6+♥s.
2♦: As in standard, 5+♥s (often just 5♥s), 4+♦s, not enough for jump shift.
2♥: 5+♥s, 5+♣s, up to 15 HCP. 3♦ is now fourth suit forcing to game.
2♠: 3/4♠s,
limited raise, maximum of 13/14 HCP, if 3♠s with a singleton/void. 2NT asks if just 3♠s, with 3m showing shortness with 3♠s,
3♥ shows 6♥s with 3♠s.
2NT: Strong semi-balanced raise, no singleton/void, 18+. 3♣ asks:
3♦: 2-5-4-2 or close to it.
3♥: 6♥s, 2♠s or close to it.
3♠: 6♥s, 3♠s or close to it.
3NT: 2-5-2-4 or close to it.
Responder can also bid naturally over 2NT, or bid 3♠ to show ♣s.
3X: Standard jump
shift/ jump rebid.
3♠: Good raise in ♠s. 16-18 HCP or 14-15 with 6+♥s.
3NT: 6 great ♥s, stoppers in the minors, short in ♠s.
4m: Singleton/void in m, strong hand.
4♥: Long ♥s, 4♠s, strong hand. To play in 4♥s with just ♥s, bid 3♦ transfer first.
4♠: 4-5-2-2, strong hand.
4NT: RKCB for ♠s.
[After 1♥-1♠;2♣]
After 1♣-1♠;2♣:
2♦:
2♥: 6+♥s, 14-17, as if bidding went 1♥-1♠;2♥.
2♠: Good raise with just 5♥s, 14-17, if 4♠s only 14-15. 2NT asks if 3 card support, 3m shows 3♠ and a singleton, 3♥ shows a 5-3-3-2 with 3♠s.
2NT: 15/16-18 with 5♥s, 4♣s, ♦ stopper. 3♣ now to play, other three level suit bids natural/semi-natural and forcing, 4♣ ORB for ♣s.
3♣: 15/16-18 with 5+♥s, 4+♣s, if just 4♣s no ♦ stopper. Suits on three level natural/semi-natural and forcing, 4♣ ORB for ♣s.
Other: ♥s & ♣s, 15/16-18 and very shapely hand with good playing value.
2♥: Awful hand with 2♥s.
Pass: 6♥s & 14-15, 15-17 with 5♥s & 4+♣s.
2♠: Good raise, 3/4♠s, 14-17.
3♥: 16-17 with 6♥s.
Other: ♥s & ♣s, 15/16-18 and very shapely hand with good playing value.
2♠: 6+♠s, weak hand, maximum of 7. Natural bidding now.
[Overview – Improving 1♥-1♠ Transfer Jump Shifts versions]
Playing Total Victory with the Transfer Jump Shifts version after 1♥-1♠ in an uncontested auction, there are two key improvements to improve bidding:
1♥-1♠;2♣ is artificial, bid with intermediate and strong hands.
1♥-1♠;(3♣,3♦,3♥) are transfers.
This is on opposite passed hand as well, but is on in competition only after 1♥-Double-1♠-Pass.
[Improving 1♥-1♠]
After 1♥-1♠, responder rebids:
1NT: balanced or semi-balanced, can have a singleton ♠, not with 3♠s. Includes all hands up to good 15 with exactly 4♣s and 5♥s.
2♣: 14/15+. One of these hand types:
d) good 15+ with 4+♣s.
e) 14+ with 6+♥s.
f) 14-17 with 3 or 4♠s, if 4♠s only 14-15 and not 6+♥s.
2♦: As in standard, 5+♥s (often just 5♥s), 4+♦s, not enough for jump shift.
2♥: 5+♥s, 5+♣s, up to 15 HCP. 3♦ is now fourth suit forcing to game.
2♠: 3/4♠s,
limited raise, maximum of 13/14 HCP, if 3♠s with a singleton/void. 2NT asks if just 3♠s, with 3m showing shortness with 3♠s,
3♥ shows 6♥s with 3♠s.
2NT: Strong semi-balanced raise, no singleton/void, 18+. 3♣ asks:
3♦: 2-5-4-2 or close to it.
3♥: 6♥s, 2♠s or close to it.
3♠: 6♥s, 3♠s or close to it.
3NT: 2-5-2-4 or close to it.
Responder can also bid naturally over 2NT, or bid 3♠ to show ♣s.
3♣: Transfer to ♦s, jump shift strength. 3♦ asks:
3♥: 5-5 or better shape.
3♠: 3♠s, 3/4♦s, 5/6♥s.
3NT: 1-5-4-3 or close to it.
4♦: Great 6-5+.
3♦: Transfer to ♥s, jump shift strength. 3♥ asks:
3♠: 3♠s, 6+♥s, often 3♣s.
3NT: 6♥s, short ♠s.
4X: Descriptive with 7+♥s.
3♥: Transfer to ♠s, jump shift strength. 3♠ asks:
3NT: 4-5-2-2 with honors in minors.
4m: singleton/void, very strong hand.
4♥: 4-5-2-2 with great ♥s, very strong hand.
4♠: 4-5-2-2 with great ♠s, very strong hand.
3♠: Good raise in ♠s. 16-18 HCP or 14-15 with 6+♥s.
3NT: 6 great ♥s, stoppers in the minors, short in ♠s.
4m: Singleton/void in m, strong hand.
4♥: Long ♥s, 4♠s, strong hand. To play in 4♥s with just ♥s, bid 3♦ transfer first.
4♠: 4-5-2-2, strong hand.
4NT: RKCB for ♠s.
Over the transfer jump shift responses (i.e. 3♣, 3♦, 3♥), beside asking with the cheapest bid, responder can bid naturally as if over a natural jump shift.
[After 1♥-1♠;2♣]
After 1♣-1♠;2♣:
2♦:
2♥: 6+♥s, 14-17, as if bidding went 1♥-1♠;2♥.
2♠: Good raise with just 5♥s, 14-17, if 4♠s only 14-15. 2NT asks if 3 card support, 3m shows 3♠ and a singleton, 3♥ shows a 5-3-3-2 with 3♠s.
2NT: 15/16-18 with 5♥s, 4♣s, ♦ stopper. 3♣ now to play, other three level suit bids natural/semi-natural and forcing, 4♣ ORB for ♣s.
3♣: 15/16-18 with 5+♥s, 4+♣s, if just 4♣s no ♦ stopper. Suits on three level natural/semi-natural and forcing, 4♣ ORB for ♣s.
3♦: 18/19+, 5+♥s, 4+♣s, 3+♦s.
3♥: 18/19+, 5+♥s, 5+♣s.
3♠: 18/19+, 5+♥s, 4+♣s, 3♠s.
3NT: 18/19+, 6♥s, 4♣s, ♦ stopper.
4X: 18/19+, 6+♥s, 4♣s,
descriptive.
2♥: Awful hand with 2♥s.
Pass: 6♥s & 14-15, 15-17 with 5♥s & 4+♣s.
2♠: Good raise, 3/4♠s, 14-17.
3♥: 16-17 with 6♥s.
Rest: Natural with 5+♥s, 4+♣s, 17/18+.
2♠: 6+♠s,
weak hand, maximum of 7. Natural bidding now.
[Overview]
ETM Total Victory installs two significant changes to the 2/1 and 1NT forcing structures. The changes are used to help stay low with weak hands, to find more heart fits when 1♠ is opened, to better investigate games and slams, and to reveal less information if just bidding to 3NT.
The first change is that a game force in either minor, or a balanced/semi-balanced game force all start with 2♣. This would at first seem to consume space to unwind hand types, but a careful rebidding scheme that focuses on what is important actual gains in many cases. In addition responder can find out about opener’s hand and bid 3NT without disclosing information, a key advantage. The bidding scheme is designed to be the same with either major, and almost the same with either minor, producing many common sequences. While initial use does take some memory work, the common sequences combined with many occurrences, make the method easy to use after the first hurdle.
The second change is a result of the 2♦ response to 1M being freed up for use. This bid is used to fix problem areas in the 1NT forcing structure. The 2♦ response to 1♠ shows ♥s & 10/11+, allowing this suit an easy entry into the auction. The 2♥ response to 1♠ is natural with maximum of 10 and 5/6+♥s. The 2♦ response to 1♥ shows 3+♦s, 9+. In particular it can have 9-10 balanced with doubleton ♥, allowing this constructive hand type a clear way to be shown. Note that by a passed hand 2♣ is Drury and the sequences 1♥-2♦, 1♠-2♦, 1♠-2♥ are natural, the 2♦ bids showing 6♦s. The 1NT forcing changes are still on except that 1♥-1NT;2m-2♥ shows 5-10, while by unpassed hand it is 5-8. None of the changes are on in competition.
Introductory examples of 1M-2♣
|
a) |
|
|
|
♠ AT872 ♠ 2 ♥ 52 ♥ KQ87 ♦ QT43 ♦ AJ653 ♣ AJ ♣ KT2 |
1♠-2♣;2♦-2NT;3NT |
2♦ was waiting, 2NT
said bid 3NT if not shapely and/or 16+, 3NT to play. Opponents know very little about declarer’s
hand and opener’s best minor. |
|
b) |
|
|
|
♠ AQJ932 ♠ KT ♥ T ♥ A987 ♦ K62 ♦ 43 ♣ AQ3 ♣ KJT82 |
1♠-2♣;2♠-3♥;4♣-4♥;4NT-5♥;6♠ |
2♠ shows
6+♠s, 14+. 3♥ shows GF in
♠s with ♣ length. 4♣ is a cuebid and a serious slam try
(3NT would be with a part slam try).
Cuebids and RKCB used and 6♠ reached. |
|
c) |
|
|
|
♠ AKT93 ♠ 64 ♥ AT53 ♥ KQ87 ♦ T32 ♦
4 ♣ T ♣ AKQ832 |
1♠-2♣;2♥-4♦;4NT-5♠;6♥ |
4♦ was a splinter
in ♦s, slam try with ♣s and 4+♥s. 4NT was RKCB. |
|
d) |
|
|
|
♠ 7 ♠ KQJ ♥ AJ952 ♥ Q7 ♦ Q8 ♦ AJT62 ♣ AKJT8 ♣ 32 |
1♥-2♣;3♦-3NT |
3♦ shows exactly
5♥s & 5♣s, 15. 3NT is
to play unless opener is 18+ (will bid again). Auction consumes space but so does
1♥-2♦-3♣ in standard 2/, and is less accurate. |
|
e) |
|
|
|
♠ 7 ♠
Q32 ♥ QJT62 ♥ AK8 ♦ AQ5 ♦ KT972 ♣ AKT3 ♣ Q2 |
1♥-2♣;3♣-3♦;3♥-3♠;3NT-4♦;5♦-6♦ |
3♣ shows 16+ with
exactly 4♣s & 5♥s.
3♦ asked. 3♥ with
singleton/ void in ♠s, 3♠ asked if void, 3NT = no with 16-18. 4♦ is ORB in ♦s, 5♦ shows 2 keys & Q of ♦s. 6♦s to play. Note that 3♣ consumes space but so
does 2/1 1♥-2♦-3♣ & is less accurate. |
[General 1M-2♣]
Note that after 1♥-2♣, the 2♥ or 2♠ responses are switched from normal 2/1 rebids to gain space. This means that 1♥-2♣;2♥ shows 4+♠s, while 1♥-2♣;2♠ shows 6+♥s.
After 1M-2♣:
2♦: Either
4+♦s, any strength, 4+♣s less than 16, or 5-3-3-2 with 11-13 HCP
(usually doubleton in
2♥: Shows 4+ in
2♠: 6+ in M, 14-18, denies
4 in
2NT: 5-3-3-2 with extras,
about 14-16 HCP, or 6 in M and no
singleton/void, 18+.
3♣: Exactly 4♣s & 5 in M & 16+.
3♦: 5 in M & 5♣s & 15+.
3M: 6+ in M, 18/19+, not 4+ in
3OM: 5-5 or better in majors with good playing
strength. If ♥=M always 6-5+ with 17+. If ♠=M 6-5+ if 15+ or exactly 5-5 if 18+.
3NT: 6 in M, singleton in
4m: 7+ in M, 17/18+, singleton/void in m, no other 4 card or longer suit.
4♥: If ♠=M, 6-5-1-1 exactly, 18+.
4M: 7+ in M, 17/18+, no minor singleton, no other 4 card or longer suit.
[Scheme after …3♣ which shows exactly 4 in a minor scheme]
After opener bids 3♣ to show exactly 4 in a specific minor (or occasionally 6-5+ with 15+), responder can bid 3♦ asking with these replies:
3♥: Singleton/void
in
3♠: Singleton in om.
3NT: No singleton or a singleton ace.
4♣: If opener is 16+ but not 6-5+, this shows a hand with no singleton or singleton ace and really big, 19+.
If opener can have 6-5+ & 15+ (this only occurs if 3♥ to 3NT all show maximum of 15).
4♣: 6-5+, 15-17,
not void in
4♦: 6-5+,
15-17, void in
4♥: 6-5+, 18+,
not void in
4♠: 6-5+, 18+,
void in
[Scheme after …3♦ which shows 5-5 with a minor scheme]
After opener bids 3♦ to show exactly 5+ in a specific minor, responder can bid 3♥ asking with these replies:
3♠: Exactly
5-5, singleton/void in
3NT: Exactly 5-5, singleton/void in om. 4♣ asks if void, 4♦=no, 4♥=yes.
If opener is less than 15 then these bids show:
4♣: 6-5-1-1
shape.
4♦: 6-5+,
void in om.
4♥: 6-5+,
void in
If opener is always 15+, 3♠ or 3NT show 15-17 (17 not with void) and these bids are made with 17/18+ (17 with void):
4♣: Exactly 5-5, singleton in om.
4♦: Exactly 5-5, void in om.
4♥: Exactly
5-5, singleton in
4♠: Exactly
5-5, void in
Bidding after finding
shape
[RKCB available]
First note that some RKCB will be optional RKCB (ORB) – see upcoming note. Whenever opener has not denied 3+ in a minor or has shown 3+ in a minor, 4 of that minor is ORB unless otherwise defined. A jump to 4NT is always RKCB for the last naturally bid suit if RKCB or ORB for the suit is not available below 4NT. After bids like 1M-2♣;2♠ or 1M-2♣;2NT where the second suit, if any, is not known, a jump to 4NT is RKCB for M. Over an immediate rebid of 3NT or higher over 2♣, 4NT is RKCB for M if not available otherwise.
[Asking Mode by Responder]
We define that Responder is in Asking Mode in sequences when opener either makes an immediate rebid of 3NT or higher over 2♣, or responder asks again after opener’s first rebid to 2♣, with one exception where two asks are required: after 1M-2♣;2♦-2♥;2♠, 2NT must be asked first. In these cases responder is often balanced or semi-balanced with possible slam interest, and is said to be in Asking Mode.
[Optional RKCB in Asking Mode]
When responder is in Asking
Mode, sometimes responder will be able to rebid 4m as ORB or 4♦ as ORB for ♣s, or 4 of a suit to ask
RKCB for a major below four of that major.
responder can continue with regular RKCB by
making the cheapest bid that is not the trump suit. For example 1♠-2♣;3NT(6-1-3-3, 18+)-4♣(Optional RKCB for
♣s);4♦(relative minimum, perhaps poor controls)-4♥(RKCB for
♣s).
[Additional RKCB by responder]
When responder is in Asking Mode, many times opener will deny length in a suit, which will make bids free to be used as RKCB or ORB as well. The rules for additional RKCB by responder are:
1)
If opener has shown both
majors, 4♣ if available is ORB for
2)
When opener has not shown both
majors, the bid of
2a) If no minor bid is
free,
2b) If 4♦ is free,
and 4♣ is not available, 4♦ is ORB for ♣s, and if ♥=M, 4♠ will be RKCB for ♥s,
while if ♠=M, 4♥ will be
ORB for ♠s. 4NT would be natural
and signoff if not a jump.
2c) If 2a and 2b do not apply, then the cheapest free bid is RKCB for M, and it is ORB unless it is 4♠ bid for RKCB for ♥s. 4NT would be natural, signoff if not a jump.
3)
When no RKCB is available on
four level, if opener has just one suit, 4NT is RKCB
for M. If opener has two or more second suits at
least four cards long, 4NT is RKCB for the lowest ranking of opener’s suits,
and cheapest free bid on five level is RKCB for
opener’s highest ranking suit. So
1♠-2♣;4♥(6-5-1-1, 18+)-?, 4NT is
RKCB for ♥s, 5♣ is RKCB for ♠s.
[Games to play]
Unless otherwise described,
bids of the cheapest game in a strain are to play.
[Extra values]
Sometimes responder in Asking Mode will signoff in a game but opener will have significant extra values, and by design, often extra shape. In these cases opener will bid again to describe hand naturally. For example 1♠-2♣;2♦-2♥(asks)-3♣(4♣s exactly, less than 16 or 6-5+ with ♣s & 15+);3NT(to play)-4♦ would show 6+♠, 5+♣s, 15+ points, and a control in ♦s.
[1M - 2♣ Responder’s Rebids]
2♦: Either
4+♦s, any strength, 4+♣s less than 16 or 15+ if 6-5+, or 5-3-3-2
with 11-13 HCP (usually doubleton in
After 2♦:
2♠: Artificial,
shows GF with ♦s. Opener now makes
call that would have been made on the 2/1 sequence 1M-2♦;?
3X: Natural bidding with ♣s, preferred not to bid 2♥ to ask first, 3NT shows extras with 6+♣s, but not great shape.
4m: ORB for m.
4M: 5♦s, 3+M, GF, no outside control, no extras.
2♥: Artificial, asks for further description, usually GF balanced or with ♣s and can handle rebid.
2♠: 4+♦s but not 5-5 with 15+. Now all bids but 2NT are natural with ♣s and 2NT asks:
3♣: Exactly 4♦s, less than 16, or 6-5+ & 15+. 3♦ asks and other suit bids are value showing with ♦s.
3♦: 5+ in M & 5+♦s, less than 15. 3♥ asks and other suit bids are value showing with ♦s.
3♥: 4♦s
exactly, 16+, singleton/void in
3♠: 4♦s exactly, 16+, singleton in om.
3NT: 4♦s exactly, 16-18, no singleton or a singleton ace.
4♣: 4♦s exactly, 19+, no singleton or a singleton ace.
2NT: 5 in M & 5♦s, 15-17 OR 5 in M & 5♦s & 18+ with
singleton/void ♣ OR 5-3-3-2 & 11-13 & not 2 in
3♦: 5-3-3-2 & 11-13. 3♥ asks exact shape:
3♠: Doubleton ♦.
3NT: Doubleton ♣.
3♥: Exactly 5-5,
singleton/void in ♣, 15-17.
3♠ asks void, 3NT=no, 4♣=yes.
3♠: Exactly 5-5, singleton in
3NT: Exactly 5-5, void in
4♣: Exactly 5-5, 18+, singleton in ♣s.
4♦: Exactly
5-5, 17/18+, void in ♣s.
3♣: 4♣s exactly, less than 16 or 6-5+ with ♣s & 15+. 3♦ asks and other suit bids value showing with ♣s.
3♦: 5+ in M & 5+♣s, less than 15. 3♥ asks and other suit bids are value showing with ♣s.
3♥: 5-3-3-2 with
3-3 in minors & 11-13, ♣ value or values. 3♠ asks for stopper in
3♠: 5-3-3-2 with
3-3 in minors & 11-13, values in M.
3NT: 5-3-3-2
with 3-3 in minors & 11-13, stoppers in
4♣: Exactly 5-5 with ♦s, 18+, singleton in
4♦: Exactly 5-5 with ♦s, 17/18+, void in
2NT: Game going to 3NT checking for extra distribution/values.
3♣: Exactly 4♦s, 16+. 3♦ asks shape, other suit bids value showing.
3♦: 5 in M & 5♦s, 15+. 3♥ asks, other suit bids value showing.
3♥: 5+ in M & 5+♣s, less than 15 or 18+ & 6-5+.
3♠: 5+ in M & 5+♦s, less than 15 or 18+ & 6-5+.
3NT: Not 5-5+ and not 16+.
4♣: 6-5+ with ♣s & 15-17.
4♦: 6-5+ with ♦s & 15-17.
2♥: Shows 4+ in
2♠: Artificial,
shows GF with natural ♦s. Opener is
expected to bid 2NT with partial or full ♣ stopper and not super shapely
(a modest 5-5 or 6-4 is not super shapely).
Then responder will rebid as if auction went 1M-2♦;2OM-?
in 2/1. Without
♣ stopper but not great ♦ fit or super shape, opener can bid
3♣ to allow responder to describe hand.
With ♦ fit opener can bid 3♦, and with super shapely hand or
shape & extras can describe hand above 3♦.
3X: Natural with GF and ♣s. As if bidding went 1M-2♣;2OM-? In 2/1.
4m: Singleton/void in m, GF in om, 4+ in
2NT: Artificial, often GF balanced, asks opener to describe hand.
3♣: less than 16 & not 6-4+ or if ♠=M 5-5 exactly & 15+, or if ♥=M 6-5 & 14-16. 3♦ asks: 3♥: 5-4-3-1 or 5-4-4-0 shape, singleton/void in ♣s, less than 16.
3♠ asks if void, 3NT=no.
3♠: 5-4-3-1 or 5-4-4-0 shape, singleton/void in ♦s, less than 16. 4♣ asks if void, 4♥=no.
3NT: 5-4-2-2 or if singleton ace 5-4-3-1 shape, less than 16.
If ♥=M, then: 4♣: 6-5+, ♣ void, 14-16.
4♦: 6-5+, ♦ void, 14-16.
4♥: 5-6-1-1, 14-16.
If ♠=M, then:
4♣: 5-5 exactly, singleton/void in ♣, 15-17 (not void if maximum).
4♦: 5-5 exactly, ♦ void, 15-17.
4♥: 5-5 exactly, ♦ singleton, 15-17.
4♠: 5-5 exactly, ♣ void, 16/17.
If instead of asking with
3♦, responder bids 3NT to play, opener bids again with 5-5 or 6-5 hand,
always then having extra values.
3♦: Shapely hand with maximum of 14 or 6-4+ (exactly 4) & 18+. Shapely hand is 6-4+, 6-5+ or if ♠=M 5-5 exactly. 3♥ and 3♠ both asks, with 3♥ going beyond 3NT if ♠=M and a 5-5. After 3♥ asks:
3♠: If ♠=M, exactly 5-5 and less than 15 and 3NT(!) asks shape:
4m: Singleton
in m.
4♥: Void in ♣s.
4♠: Void in ♦s.
If ♥=M, 6-4+ (exactly 4 in
3NT: 6-4+, (exactly 4 in
4♣: 6-5+, less than 15, not void in ♦s. 4♦ asks if ♣ void, 4♥=no.
4♦: 6-5+, less than 15, ♦ void.
4♥: 6+ in M, 4 in
4♠: 6+ in M, 4 in
After 3♠ asks:
3NT: If ♠=M a 5-5 less than 15. If ♥=M a 6-4 with bad 6 card suit.
4♣: 6-5+, less than 15, not void in ♦s. 4♦ asks if ♣ void, 4♥=no.
4♦: 6-5+, less than 15, ♦ void.
4OM: 6-4
with 18+.
4M: 6-4 with less than 15.
3♥: 5-4-3-1 or 5-4-4-0 shape, singleton/void in ♣s, 16+. 3♠ asks if void, 3NT=no & 16-18, 4♦=no & 19+, 4♣=yes & 16-18, 4♥=yes & 19+.
3♠: 5-4-3-1 or 5-4-4-0 shape, singleton/void in ♦s, 16+. 4♣ asks if void, 4♥=no & 16-18, 4♠=no & 19+, 4♦=yes.
3NT: 5-4-2-2 or if singleton ace 5-4-3-1 shape, 16-18.
4♣: 5-4-2-2 or if singleton ace 5-4-3-1 shape, 19+.
4♦: 6+ in M, 4 in
4♥: 6+ in M, 4 in
2♠: 6+ in M, 14-18, denies 4 in
After 2♠:
3m: Natural, GF, often singleton/void in m.
3♥: GF with ♣s, 2+ in M, possible slam try. 3NT now partly serious 3NT.
3♠: GF with
♦s, 2+ in M, possible slam
try. 3NT now partly serious
3NT.
4m: Singleton/void in m, GF in om, 2/3+ in
2NT: Asks:
3♣: Singleton. Can have 4♦s if maximum and only 6 in M. 3♦ asks:
3♥: Singleton/void in ♣s, no other four card suit. 3♠ asks if minimum or maximum (3NT if minimum, 4♣ if maximum).
3♠: Singleton/void in ♦s, no other four card suit.
3NT: Singleton/void in
4♣: Singleton/void in
4♦: 4♦s, singleton/void in ♣s, maximum.
4♥: 4♦s, singleton/void in
3♦: No singleton. 3♥ asks:
3♠: 3 in
3NT: 3♦s, with 6 in M and 6-3-2-2 shape, 14-15.
4♣: 3♣s, with 6 in M and 6-3-2-2 shape, 16-17.
4♦: 3♦s, with 6 in M and 6-3-2-2 shape, 16-17.
4OM: 3
in
4M: 7 in M, minimum.
3♥: 6+ in M, 4♣s, 7+ in M only if minimum. 3♠ asks for strength and shape (3NT if minimum and 6 in M).
3♠: 6+ in M, 4♦s, minimum. 4♣ asks for shape, 4♦ showing singleton/void in ♣s.
3NT: 3♣s, with 6 in M and 6-3-2-2 shape, 14-15.
4♣: 4♣s, 7+ in M, maximum.
4♦: 4♦s, 7+ in M, maximum.
4M: 7 in M, no singleton, maximum.
4OM: 4♦s, 6+ in M, void in
2NT: 5-3-3-2 with extras, about 14-16 HCP, or 6+ in M and no singleton/void, 18+.
3♣: Asks three card suit, either balanced GF or GF with ♣s or hand with ♦s that wants to ask.
3♦: 3♦s. After this:
3♥: Asks doubleton:
3♠: Doubleton in
3NT: Doubleton in ♣s.
3♠: Artificial, GF in ♣s without fit for M.
3♥: 3♣s, 3 in
3♠: Artificial, GF in ♣s without fit for M.
3♠: 3 in
3NT: 3♦s, with 6 in M and 6-3-2-2 shape, 18+.
4♣: 3♣s, with 6 in M and 6-3-2-2 shape, 18+.
4M: 7
in M,
3♦: Natural, GF with ♦s.
3♥: Assumes 14-16
hand type, 3+ in M, possible slam
interest in M and GF with ♣s. 3NT now partly serious 3NT (a mild slam try,
an immediate cuebid would be a serious try).
3♠: Assumes
14-16 hand type, 3+ in M, possible
slam interest in M and GF with
♦s. 3NT now partly
serious 3NT.
3♣: Exactly 4♣s & 5 in M & 16+. 3♦ asks. Special bids over 3♣:
3♥: Artificial, shows ♦s GF without M fit.
3♠: 3+
in M, slam
interest in M and GF with ♦s. 3NT now partly serious 3NT.