2/5/23 (60 min)
In the balancing seat we usually “borrow a king” from our partner. Since NT bids are precisely defined this point change to our hand dramatically affects our bidding. Here we look at our balancing NT bids and the followup bidding that partner makes.
12/5/22 (65 min)
The modern system for bidding when we have a fit for partner's minor, called inverted minors, works on improving our ability to look for game or slam in a minor suit -- which is the most common time we want to support a minor suit. Make sure you and partner have a good grasp of these methods, both for playing them and playing against them.
12/12/22 (66 min)
One of the most powerful tools we have in competitive bidding is the preemptive raise. When we have a minor suit fit the opponents will often have a major suit fit. We want to make it as difficult as possible for them to find that fit and using preemptive raises is one the best ways to make their life difficult.
12/19/22 (69 min)
There are certain minor suit hands that can play extremely well in NT contracts. If evaluated correctly these hands can be bid in a way that makes the auction relatively simple. Let's make sure that you do not torture your partner with these hands when you could keep it simple and get to the right contract.
12/27/22 (63 min)
When we have a good hand and a minor suit fit then we may want to explore a minor suit slam. Part of the art form of minor suit slam bidding is using tools to explore slam while keeping a NT contract in the picture. Here we look at how to use these tools and better judge our minor suit slam.
5/4/21 (68 min)
Here we look at opening lead options vs. suit contracts. It's important that you get your card combinations correct as well as your agreements. Know which holdings are risky to attack from.
5/11/21 (70+ min)
In notrump contracts we often lead 4th from our longest and strongest. Here we will look at card combinations and other holdings where we may choose not to do so.
5/18/21, (70+m)
Leading partner's suit is something you are going to do often. It is important to have good agreements about the meaning of your leads, both in suit contracts and NT. We will also discuss when not to lead partner's suit!
5/25/21 (70+ min)
Your hand is overrated in helping you make a good opening lead. The auction contains so much information that can help you. Here we look at how to make use of the auction to help you make better opening leads!
