Master Bridge Bidding with the Rule of 15

Unlock the secrets of successful bridge bidding with the Rule of 15, a game-changing strategy for the fourth seat. Learn how to calculate your high card points and spade count to confidently decide when to open the bidding and seize winning opportunities.

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The Rule of 15 in the fourth seat of bridge is a helpful guideline for deciding whether to open the bidding or pass. Here’s how it works. You take your high card points, or HCP, and add the number of spades you hold. If that total reaches 15 or more, you should open the bidding.

This rule is particularly important in the fourth seat, where you often have the last chance to bid before the opening bid. Spades are the highest-ranking suit in bridge, so having a good number of them can significantly boost your chances of winning a contract.

For instance, if you have 10 HCP and 5 spades, your total comes to 15. In this case, you should definitely open the bidding, even if your point count alone might seem borderline. The Rule of 15 helps you avoid missing out on good opportunities, especially with distributional hands that include spades.

This rule is similar to others, like the Rule of 20, which combines HCP with the lengths of your two longest suits. But the Rule of 15 focuses specifically on spades, making it a valuable tool for players in that fourth seat.

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