Texas transfers are a bid you can make opposite a 1NT opening to immediately show 6+ cards in a major. That sets trumps (because basically always has 2+ cards in the suit, so you have a fit). Lets look at why it is a good idea
1. It sets the trump suit immediately, so there is no confusion about the meaning of 4NT It is Keycard in that suit, so for example
Here responder just wanted to set spades and then bid blackwood.
2. It is quick and can shut the opponents out
On this auction we get to 4♠ very quickly, in fact a possible alternative is to just bid 4♠ here instead of 4♦, if that is natural in your system (which I recommend it is). The reason is to shut the opponents out, its possible that they have a big fit and are making for example 5♣!
3. Using Texas as a slam try
As mentioned below there are different versions, but if you play version 1 you can use it as a slam try, so
Here you have made a slam try saying "I have good hearts, 6+, and slam interest. Partner's 4♦ shows interest, whereas 4♥ would say "not today".
Two Styles
I've seen two different versions of this commonly used, once again make sure you and partner are on the same page:
Version 1
- 4♣ = transfers to 4♥ (two bids below 4♥)
- 4♦ = transfers to 4♠ (two bids below 4♠)
Version 2
- 4♦ = transfer to 4♥ (one bid below)
- 4♥ = transfer to 4♠ (one bid below)
As always, discuss with partner what you are playing, don't just say "Texas".
When Texas is usually right
6+ cards in a major is the main starting point. If you are using it as a slam try, it probably is best only if you do not have a shortage. If you had a shortage, I would prefer to transfer and then splinter, for example
Here south has shown spades and then has splintered in diamonds. That is a more effective way to slam try with a shortage than using Texas.
Common mistakes
The main issues are forgetting system, which version you play, or accidentally thinking it is natural - this is particularly likely if you have played bridge a long time without Texas transfers. I do not think they are essential, you can do fine without them, so if you are worried you are going to forget them, perhaps leave them out.
Another main mistake is clarifying with partner whether you definitely have a slam try in order to use them, or whether its possible you just want to be in game. Ask this to partner - what is the difference if I Texas transfer, or if instead, I just transfer on the 2 level and then raise to game, for example
How does that auction vary from a Texas auction. Expert pairs typically treat one of them as slam try, and the other not - if that is the case, decide with your partner which (if any) is a slam try.
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