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Garbage Stayman in Bridge: Bidding 2♣ With a Weak Hand
by: Tracey BauerPublished on: 08/17/2026Garbage Stayman lets you bid 2♣ on a weak hand and pass any answer. Learn the shape it needs, the two classic hands, and when to pass 1NT instead.
Bridge Conventions
What Is the Smolen Convention in Bridge?
by: Tracey BauerPublished on: 08/09/2026Smolen is a jump to 3♥ or 3♠ after Stayman's 2♦ reply, showing 5-4 in the majors with game values. Learn how it works and why it right-sides the contract.
Bridge Conventions
What Is the Blackwood Convention in Bridge?
by: Tracey BauerPublished on: 08/08/2026Blackwood's 4NT asks partner how many aces they hold so you never bid a slam missing two aces. Learn the responses, the 5NT king ask, and when to avoid it.
Bridge Conventions
How Do You Plan the Play of a Bridge Hand?
by: Tracey BauerPublished on: 08/02/2026Declarer play starts before trick one. Count your winners or losers, make a plan, check your entries, and decide when to draw trumps. Here is the routine.
Bridge Conventions