Issue 22 - Standard American

Editorial by Paul Bowyer

Welcome to V-Blue, the e-magazine for those who are learning the wonderful game of bridge.

In this edition (issue number 22) we are returning to defense and the idea of signaling. We have skimmed the surface of signals in some earlier series, now it is time to look in more depth.

Here we are looking at suit-preference signals where you can tell partner what you would like him to lead next. In the cases that we highlight here it is in those situations when the defenders are enjoying themselves by ruffing things. When giving partner a ruff how can you tell him what to switch to?

There are (as ever) two series on the same topic, one a relatively easy set of deals and one a set of more testing deals. As ever, VuBridge will be by your shoulder, giving you helpful nudges, hints and tips.

When you have worked your way through these instructive deals you may like to try the “General Series” of eight assorted hands. There’s no particular theme and there are more deals where you are a defender than a declarer. That’s realistic, though – in real life you play the hand only half as often as you defend.

We also have a quiz for you to enjoy: ten questions on responses to two-bids. There are two versions here, one on British-style strong twos and one on weak twos. Take your pick.

There are some important and interesting ideas in this edition. Tuck in and enjoy.

Series #2573 - Defense – Suit Preference Signals - Part I (SA)

The two series of six deals in this edition of V-Blue (this one and another to be found elsewhere) are on signalling in defense.

In this section we show you how to tell your partner which suit you want led. This is called "Suit Preference" signalling and in these cases applies in the situation when the defenders are seeking ruffs.

Everything revolves around the connection between the ranking of the suits (Spades-Hearts-Diamonds-Clubs in that order) and the rank of the card you lead when giving a ruff (is it a high card or a low card?) The higher the card, the more it is tied to the higher ranking suit.

In practice there are only two suits to choose from so all you have to do is to decide whether partner has led a high card or a low card.

Clear? Of course not – which is why we have many illustrative examples.

Series #2573 - Defense – Suit Preference Signals - Part I (SA):

Response to Weak-Two opening bids

In this series we look at the way a responder should bid when partner opens a weak bid in Diamonds, Hearts or Spades.

Most players play a weak two shows 5-9 points and a six-card suit, with small variations.

Remember that new suits are FORCING and that raises to the three-level are essentially non-forcing (actually, pre-emptive).. Click here to run the Quiz.

Series #2574 - Defense – Suit Preference Signals - Part II (SA version)

This series is trickier and you may have to shake your little grey cells...

These six deals expand on the principles expounded in the first series.

Series #2575 - Defense – Suit Preference Signals - Part II (SA):

Series #2564 - General Hands (SA):