Bidding practice

Coaching on

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?

Planning

Open 1NT with a balanced 15-17 HCP hand; partner can do the maths, and will know whether the combined HCP are less than game value, good for game, or worth looking for a slam.

South

♠ A K 7

♥ A Q 8

♦ K J 9

♣ 9 8 4 3

HCP: 17

Shape: 3-3-3-4

Balanced: yes

Coaching mode

Note: your shape, your points, partner's call, and whether the opponents have entered the auction.

15-17 HCP, balanced shape: open 1NT.

Suggested bid for South: 1NT

Select South’s opening call: