The original concept is designated as control showing responses (also step responses) to a strong, artificial 2 Clubs opening bid. These original responses were devised by Mr. Oswald Jacoby, one of the leading bridge personalities and bridge theorists. The concept is based on the idea that each response conveys a narrowed and specific range of high card points based on the Work Point Count evaluation method.
The level of high card points is the main feature and the step responses are narrowed in order that the opener can better estimate the power of the hand held by the partner. They were first introduced by Mr. Oswald Jacoby in the early stages of the evolution of the game of bridge and have enjoyed great success in the bridge community.
Outlined Responses of the Concept
Their application indicates only the amount of high card points held by the partner, but not the controls and/or the location of controls. The non-application of the first response of 2 No Trump is debatable and, through its non-inclusion, the debate is arguably justified.
2 : |
Shows 0-3 high card points. |
2 : |
Shows 4-6 high card points. |
2 : |
Shows 7-9 high card points. |
3 : |
Shows 10-12 high card points. |
3 : |
Shows 13-15 high card points. |
The main argument for such a version is that the opening bidder can infer to a calculable degree which losers might be covered by the collective points held by responder and bid accordingly.
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.