Opening Conventions

In ACOL Bridge, the number of points and shape of your hand will determine whether you are able to open the bidding.

Below is the bidding convention used by bridgetrainer.

This convention is designed as a BASIC approach for beginners. Experienced players will use a more complex and fluid bidding system.

Note: S = Number of Spades in hand, SP = Number of Spade Points, SH = Number of Spade Honour Cards – the same pattern for the other suits applies.

Basic Openings

SHAPE POINTS CARDS BID

Balanced

< 12

 

Pass

Balanced

>=12 and <=14

 

1NT

Balanced

>=15 and <=19

 

Longest @1

Balanced

>=20 and <=22

 

2NT

Balanced

>=23

 

2C – Strong

UnBalanced

<12

 

Pass

UnBalanced

>=12 and <=19

 

Longest @1

UnBalanced

>=20

 

2C - Strong

Weak 2's

SHAPE POINTS CARDS BID

Any

6-10

6D + 2 good Diamond Honours

2D

Any

6-10

6H + 2 good Heart Honours

2H

Any

6-10

6S + 2 good Spade Honours

2S