Point Counting

From Ron Klinger book, Bergen book

Rev: 05-08-99

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The initial point count valuation is always just high-card points (HCP). Additional points may be added for length or shortness only after a notrump fit or suit fit has been located. HCP plus additional points are total points (TP).

When opening in 1st or 2nd seat use the Rule of 20:

1. Add up all HCP

2. Count the number of cards in the longest suit.

3. Count the number of cards in the second-longest suit.

4. Maybe subtract a point if no aces and poor spot cards (nines and tens; unsupported honors).

5. If the total of these is 20 or greater, open the bidding.

6. Pass if you are short of 20, or perhaps  make  a preemptive bid. Of course 3rd and 4th seat openers may be lighter. When deciding to open light in the 4th seat, use the Pierson Count (count HCP and one point for each spade in your hand, if this total isn’t equal to or greater than 15, don’t open unless you possess a full opener).

Until a Fit Has Been Found - Both opener and responder should use only HCP to determine choice of bids. If opponents bid, you may have to de-value some HCP as the bidding progresses. Exception: if the hand contains a long, solid suit ( or almost solid suit) of at least 6-cards, use total points (TP) by adding length to high-card ponts.

If the Fit is Found to be Notrump - Add length points for a long suit:

If the Fit is Found to be a Trump Suit - Add shortness, or ruffing points (ignore length points):

Super-fit Points – If the partnership has at least ten trumps you add 3 points for a singleton or void in addition to any ruffing points.