Forcing 1NT

Rev: January 22, 1998

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Usually used when playing the 2-Over-1 bidding system, although many use it with Standard. The 1NT response is only forcing if partner opened a major in the 1st or 2nd seat (semi-forcing if 3rd or 4th seat).

 

If you cannot bid you suit without going to the two level, and cannot support partner’s major-suit opening bid (2 or less trumps). This bid is forcing for one round (partner must make at least one more bid). Off in competition.

 

Requirements to respond 1NT:

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6 - 11 HCP (or a poor 12). Can’t make a two-level bid.

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Can’t support opener’s major suit.

 

Opener’s rebids:

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With minimum hand rebids his opening suit if six-card suit or greater.

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Otherwise, with a minimum hand, bids his best minor suit, even with only three cards.

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Or, with proper strength and shape bids his other major or make a forcing bid. Reverses are on.

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If  3rd or 4th seat opening was light, may treat 1NT as non-forcing and pass, but if full opening values treat 1NT as forcing.