The original concept is designated as control showing responses (also step responses) to a strong, artificial 2 Clubs opening bid. These original responses should be viewed first and then the variation and/or version as suggested by Mr. Edgar Kaplan.

Definition of the Concept

The concept of the variation is that it could help the 2 Clubs bidder, if he could more precisely estimate how weak the responder actually is. Does the responder have a very weak hand, a moderately weak hand, or even a good weak hand. Remember, the 2 Clubs opening bid indicates strength and/or trick-taking ability.

How can the responder show more than just Controls and keep the bidding low? The graph below should clarify this variation. The application of the first response of 2 No Trump is debatable and, through its inclusion, arguably justified.

The foundation of the conventional method is to count each Ace as 2 Controls and each King as 1 Control.

2 :		0 or 1 Control		Fewer than 6 high card points and fewer than 2 controls.
2 :		0 or 1 Control		At least 6 high card points plus and fewer than 2 controls.
2 :		2 Controls		1 Ace or 2 Kings.
2 NT:		3 Controls		Specifically 3 Kings.
3 :		3 Controls		1 Ace and 1 King.
3 :		4 Controls		2 Aces or 1 Ace and 2 Kings.

With this version the responder is able to not only show the number of controls, but also a certain minimum of high card points.

If you wish to include this feature, or any other feature, of the game of bridge in your partnership agreement, then please make certain that the concept is understood by both partners. Be aware whether or not the feature is alertable or not and whether an announcement should or must be made. Check with the governing body and/or the bridge district and/or the bridge unit prior to the game to establish the guidelines applied. Please include the particular feature on your convention card in order that your opponents are also aware of this feature during the bidding process, since this information must be made known to them according to the Laws of Duplicate Contract Bridge. We do not always include the procedure regarding Alerts and/or Announcements, since these regulations are changed and revised during time by the governing body. It is our intention only to present the information as concisely and as accurately as possible.