After Partner Opens 1NT: Pass or Invite

Partner opens 15-17 No trump, how many points do you need for an invite? (if you play different range No Trump, say 14-16, you will need 1 extra point to invite than the recommendations below).

The main point is with a normal balanced 8 points, just pass. An invite should be done on 9 points, or a very good 8 point hand. With 10 or more, bid game. Often people worried about missing game if partner has 17. I'll keep the explanation brief and just say, forget about that.

This hand is not an invite.

But that does not mean we always pass with 8, for example.

This is quite a nice hand, because it has several 10's and good quality suits, you would not be ashamed of inviting on this hand. A nice idea is to look for a major fit by bidding stayman, and then fall back on an invite.

Of course with distributional hands, its a different story, for example the below hand is only 7 points, but bidding 3NT is a fair approach, as the hand may be worth 5-6 tricks. (People often value a good 6 card suit as 3 extra points!).

Overall, the key point is that with a normal balanced 8 points, its advisable to pass a strong NT, and to invite with 9 points. Not all balanced 8's are equal, and occasionally it is a good idea to bid on, especially when you have the majors.

Where to next

• -> Next: Should You Invite with 11? Practical Guide
• -> Related: Weak Stayman: Know When It Helps
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