Generally you need at least 13 points to open the bidding.
But when you have a weaker hand with a long suit you may open at the 2, 3 or 4-level.
This bid can disrupt the opponent's search for an acceptable contract.
It is called a Preemptive Opening Bid.
- at least a 6-card suit in ♠s, ♥s or ♦s
- 6-11 points
- some honor strength in the suit (usually at least two honors)
- you cannot make a Weak 2-Bid in ♣s since 2♣ is a strong, forcing bid
- you only need 2 cards in the suit to have a fit, since partner promises at least 6
- partner has 6 to 11 points, so you need about 17 points to make game
- don't bid a suit of your own unless you believe it is a better place than partner's suit
- a 2NT response asks the Opener to bid a suit where he holds a 'Feature' (Ace or King)
- a 3NT response means you want to play it there
- fewer than 12 points
- 7 card suit, preferably with some honors
- not vulnerable : you should be able to win 6 tricks in your hand alone with your suit as trump
- vulnerable : you should be able to win 7 tricks in your hand alone with your suit as trump
- ignore points and count each Ace or King you hold as one winner
- add your winners to the number of tricks partner promised (6 or 7) and bid accordingly