Log in
Sign up
Practical Learning
Learn

Declarer Play

Skilled declarer play comes from simple counting and basic pattern recognition

Advanced
Fundamentals

Patterns and Technique

Article + Video
#2

Pattern Recognition 1: Ruffing Strategy in Dummy

Getting familiar with ruffing stuff in dummy.

Article + Video
#3

Pattern Recognition 2: Set Up Side Suits

When to set up side suits as a priority.

Article + Video
#4

Pattern Recognition 3: Find and Build Trick Sources

Train your brain to grab trick sources!

Article + Video
#5

Pattern Recognition 4: Avoid Creating Extra Losers

A missing piece of info for working out which suit to play.

#998

Bridge Shapes Fundamentals: Read Distribution Quickly

Practical declarer pattern lesson: Bridge Shapes Fundamentals: Read Distribution Quickly. Learn a clear technique you can apply at the table right away.

Counting and Planning

Article + Video
#1

Declarer Play Basics: Build a Plan at Trick One

Recommended for all levels, from beginner to advanced.

Article + Video
#1

Count Winners in No-Trump: Build a Trick Plan

Counting tricks is everything...

Article + Video
#2

Counting Losers: Plan the Hand and Spot Hidden Dangers Early

What conclusions do you reach after counting losers?

Article + Video
#3

Count Winners in Trumps: Avoid Missed Tricks and Read the Trump Layout

Understanding your trump suit

Trump Management

#11

Drawing Trumps: Make the Right Plan and Avoid Autopilot

Trump timing focus: Draw Trumps or Delay: Make the Right Plan. Learn practical decisions for drawing trumps without damaging your overall plan.

Entries and Communication

#8

Use Entries Well: Reach the Right Hand at the Right Time

Consider your entries in a different light.

#9

Duck to Preserve Communication: Set Up Your Long Suit

Always consider the "duck" in order to set up your long suit.

Suit Establishment and Timing

#6

Take Every Chance: Create Extra Tricks Before Defence Settles

Once again we need to count tricks.

#13

Have a Backup Plan: Recover When Plan A Fails

Timing focus: Have a Backup Plan: Recover When Plan A Fails. Learn how to establish and cash side-suit winners at the right moment.

#14

Cash Side-Suit Winners with Trumps Out: Avoid Ruff Risk

Playing winners when the opponents still have trumps

Practice Hands

#4

Practice Hand 1: Plan Before You Play

Mostly about counting trump tricks properly.

#5

Practice Hand 2: Timing and Entries Under Pressure

Ideas around setting up side suits and entries.