First Steps: How to Bid in Bridge (Standard)

In this course, you will learn the basic structure of bidding in bridge: how to open, respond and rebid with the most common hand types; and what the aim of the whole thing is! You will also get the chance to learn a little bit of competitive bidding: basic overcalls.

There are two bidding systems covered in this course: Acol and Standard American (SA). The system you choose to learn will normally depend on what people in your area tend to play, in order to give you the best possible chance of finding a partner who plays your system. Although you will find players of both systems (and others too!) all over the world, a general guideline to follow is:

  • If you live in the UK, Ireland or New Zealand, click here to transfer over to the Acol course.
  • If you live elsewhere, you are in the right place!

Happy bridging!

Basic Hand Evaluation (Standard) Preview Basic Responses to 1NT (Standard) Preview Supporting Partner's Major (Standard) Responding without a Major Fit (Standard) Opener's Rebid when Unbalanced (Standard) Opener’s Rebid when Balanced (Standard) Overcalls in a Suit (Standard) Summary (Standard)