Double is the most useful and underused bid in Bridge, as it can be utilised in so many situations that aren’t covered by overcalls. However it is a tricky bid as it has two different meanings, Take-out and Penalty. If you follow these guidelines you won’t go wrong.
Take-out, Penalty, Further Uses, & Protective Doubles in Bridge – Free Lessons
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Jack Stocken has established himself as one of the country’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.
Lessons
Penalty Doubles in Bridge
Double has two meanings, take-out and penalty. However there is one exception to the above and that is if a player opens 1NT. Then a double by either overcaller is for penalties.
Further Uses of Take-out Doubles in Bridge
Previously, we learnt that you needed S.O.S to double. However, there are other times when the take-out double is the best bid available.
Protective Doubles in Bridge
Protective doubling is when someone has bid and the next two players have passed, ie 1♥ – pass – pass – ?. The bidding is about to end if you pass in 4th position, so you should do everything possible to keep the bidding open.