Lesson 3: Further uses of Take-out Doubles with Jack Stocken

May 11, 2021 12:01 pm

Hi ,

We hope you enjoyed the previous lessons on Take-out and Penalty Doubles.

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On we go with the next lesson below...

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Lesson 3: Further Uses of Take-out Doubles in Bridge

Previously, we learnt that you needed S.O.S to double:

Shortage (in the opponent’s suit)
Opening (points)
Support (for the other three suits).

However, there are other times when the take-out double is the best bid available.

Watch the video

Responding to a One Level Take-out Double

You must bid even with no points and sometimes with a three card suit!
Remember to jump a level to show 9 – 12 points
Bid the major suit before a minor suit, even if the major has only 4 cards and the minor has 5 cards

Responding to a High Level Double

Double is for take-out when partner either hasn’t bid, or has passed. This is the case even when partner doubles a high level opening bid (ie 3♣ or 4♦).

However, partner is much more prone to pass a 4 level take-out double if he has no long suit and thinks it more likely the opponent’s contract will go down.

Watch the video and then try playing through the hand here

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Jack Stocken has established himself as one of the UK's foremost bridge teachers; renowned for his patience, clarification of teaching and most important of all, making bridge a fun game to learn. Jack started teaching bridge in 1999 at The Andrew Robson Bridge Club where he worked as the club’s manager for seven years. He returned to his native Yorkshire in 2006 where he started “Yorkshire Bridge” and now has regular classes in Harrogate and Helmsley. Jack also teaches groups at private houses and has taught in several other counties. His bridge teaching is in the same style as at the London Club, with an emphasis on creating a friendly atmosphere and enjoyment of the game.

Jack teaches weekly online bridge lessons for Beginners & Improvers and Intermediate players. Members immediate gain access to a library of lessons, and can join the weekly live lessons or watch via replay later.