Bidding practice
The most widely-played natural bidding system in North America. 5-card majors, strong 1NT (15-17), strong 2C, weak twos, Stayman, and Jacoby transfers.
South is the dealer. No one has bid yet. What is South’s opening call?
South
♠
A K J 9 4
♥
A 7 5
♦
Q 6
♣
K 7 3
HCP: 17
Shape: 5-3-2-3
Balanced: yes
Planning
Recognise that RKCB responses may need judgment when responder has a useful void; avoid mechanical keycard counting.
A splinter convention in bridge is an artificial jump bid in a new suit that shows 4+ card support for partner’s suit, a singleton or void in the bid suit, and game-forcing strength. It immediately communicates hand shape and slam interest, allowing partnerships to evaluate fit