Page 8
From the Author
Welcome to my first
(but not last) book on declarer play. I’ve tried to make this
book as helpful and instructive as possible, so every chapter is
based on a practical topic. Of course, as with all my books, I
hope that
Declarer
Play the Bergen Way also proves to be
entertaining.
Before reading the
deals and tips that follow, consider the following. Even if you
usually play matchpoint duplicate, in this book you should
concentrate on making your contract. Until the contract is
assured, don’t even think about overtricks. By the way, on most
deals, even when you’re playing matchpoints, you won’t go wrong
with this approach.
Because no two
players have the exact same preferences, I varied the format a
little from deal to deal. Some are presented in "test your play"
form, so you have an opportunity to find the solution on your
own. I included questions on these to help you focus on the most
relevant issues. Other deals are presented as they were actually
played.
Of course, you’re
always welcome to test yourself by covering up the E-W hands, or
to avoid all tests by reading on without answering the
questions.
© 2004 - Marty Bergen
Page 9
From the Author
As for the bidding,
on most deals, the auction is included. If no auction is given,
it means that the N–S bidding was straightforward, and E-W
passed throughout.
I recommend that
you check out the back of the book. Here you will find:
I. Bergenisms:
Pages 181-196 These "tip highlights" provide many practical,
carefully-worded statements that can prove invaluable to the
reader in countless situations.
A. Declarer
Play
B. Bidding
C. Defense
and Opening Leads
Although this book
focuses on declarer play, on some deals, the discussion of the
bidding and/or defense provides helpful hints that are worth
emphasizing.
II. Reader-Friendly
Glossary Plus: Pages 197-209 Practical declarer-related terms
and
advice will do a lot more than simply
allow you to "talk the talk." This section will definitely
improve your knowledge and technique, as well as clarify
uncertainties and popular misconceptions. Most terms are
discussed in this book, but I also included a few others that
are important, or in a few cases, amusing.
Best
wishes,
Marty
Bergen June 2004
© 2004 - Marty Bergen
Page 10
From the Author
Relevant
Bidding & Defense in This Book
Opening bids based on the Rule of 20.
Five-card majors.
1NT
opening bid = 15-17 HCP.
2NT opening bid = 20-21 HCP.
Jacoby Transfers
2 
opening bid is strong, artificial, and forcing.
Weak two-bids in diamonds, hearts, and spades.
Standard
Blackwood (not RKC).
Responding to Partner’s Opening Bid:
Natural
raises of minors (no Inverted Minors).
1NT
response to a major:
Whether you are or are not playing 1NT Forcing is not
relevant in this book.
A
response in a new suit at the two level:
Whether you are or are not playing 2/1 Game-Forcing is not
relevant in this book.
Defense:
Opening
Leads: A from AK, and 4th best.
Signals: Standard
© 2004- Marty Bergen
Chapter 1 :Getting
Off on the Right Foot ...................... 11
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