In SBME, I gave the convention 5NT Pick a Slam
my highest rating. I said, “Although it doesn’t occur as often
as other slam conventions, it is still my favorite.” Why is
that? Because both
players are involved in the decision-making
process, the partnership will arrive at the final contract
only after mutual agreement.
Why is this convention necessary? Most of the
time:
• Taking 12 tricks without a trump suit is
not easy.
It is much easier to take 12 tricks in a suit contract;
• Hands with a singleton play better in a suit
contract;
• If you have the necessary strength and
controls,
12 tricks are available in at least one of the suits –
even if it is only a 7-card fit.
The convention works like this: When you know
you belong in a small slam, but don’t know where to play, a
jump to 5NT asks partner for a suggestion.
After the 5NT Pick a Slam bid, partner can
suggest
a suit he is willing to play in. Possibilities
include:
• Mentioning a new suit.
• Showing mild support for a suit you bid.
• Rebidding one of his suits with extra length
or
strength in that suit.
• Bidding 6NT if he has nothing worth
mentioning
or is positive that the
hand belongs in notrump.
When playing 5NT Pick a Slam, you must
remember:
• The 5NT bid is forcing;
• 5NT denies interest in a grand slam.
5NT Pick a Slam is unfamiliar to many players,
so I will illustrate the convention with several examples.
1.
2
K
2