Lesson 8 - Responding to partner's bid - 30 mins

Remember to refer to your Helpcard.

You are now at the part of the bidding where you know a little about what is in your partner's hand. It is now up to you to tell your partner what is in your hand.

If your partner has opened the bidding then you know that their hand count is at least 11 points. When it is your turn to call, the bridge starter system allows just 3 response calls.

If your hand count is less than 6 points - pass

In the bridge starter system, you can pass at any time you like. There are 2 exceptions:

• on the very rare occasion where your partner has indicated 25+ hand count points e.g. 3 hearts with their opening bid, even if you have no points at all, you should bid your longest suit at the first possible level - if you have two long suits or more bid the lower ranked suit. If you have a balanced hand with at least 3 cards in each suit and no obvious best suit, bid no trumps
• on the rare occasion when you go for slam - more on this exception in lesson 11

If your hand count is 6-14 points - bid your longest suit at the first possible level - if you have two long suits or more bid the lower ranked suit. If you have a balanced hand with at least 3 cards in each suit and no obvious best suit, bid no trumps.

• on the pretty rare occasion where your partner has indicated 25+ hand count points e.g. 3 hearts with their opening bid, and you have 15 or more points, you should go for slam. More on this in lesson 11

If your hand count is 15+ points - all the above at the second possible level

• on the extremely rare occasion where your partner has indicated 25+ hand count points e.g. 3 hearts with their opening bid, and you have 15 or more points, you should go for slam. More on this in lesson 11

Now have a go at the quiz. Don't worry if you get questions wrong. Keep persevering and you will soon find that it will all become clear.