The bid of ‘Double’ can be used for :-
- Penalties
- at the 3 level or above
- or of a NT bid (where the doubler holds 16+ points)
- Take out Double
- Informational Double
- sometimes called ‘The Negative Double’
- sometimes called ‘The Negative Double’
Penalties
Only double for penalties when you think that you can bring their contract down, especially if they are vulnerable, and you are NOT!!
Take Out Double
Use this double, after they have bid, to inform partner that you have 16+ points and that you will play in any contract except the suit they have bid. Partner must respond, you can’t just leave the double in place, you must ‘Take Out’ your partner’s double.
If the opposition have intervened then you can remain quiet, if you have very low points.
| Points | Bid |
|---|---|
| 0-5 | Longest suit at cheapest level |
| 6-9 | Cheapest or 1 NT if stopper |
| 10-12 | Jump or 2NT |
| 13+ | Game |
Informational Double
Partner has opened, the opposition have intervened and have “robbed your bid” . You can double their bid to show partner that you have some points.