Standard American 21

The Rubber Bridge Player's Guide For The 21st Century

By John Sheridan Thomas

Chapter 6: The Majors

Single Raises

When your associate opens, you have an obligation to respond with 6 points, otherwise there is the prospect of missing game. A minimal response (6 to 9 points, possibly 10 in a pinch) is worth only one free bid. Having support, the best use of that one bid is to raise partner's major to the two-level. This raise establishes trump and simultaneously defines your limitations.

You have 7 points, three hearts and five spades. It may be tempting to bid spades, but resist the impulse.