Here is a list of conventions that I like. They are what I will suggest when organising a system with a new partner and what I will recommend to people when they ask about what I play. It's also
completely subjective so if you don't agree that's normal.
Updated:17/08/2011
Systems:
Electric Ant
Fantoni-Nunes. Their system is probably the biggest fundamental shift in system design since C. C. Wei.
Openings:
Long spade jammer
Weak NT Have to say I've gone off the weak NT lately. I've been playing 15 - 17 for a few months and it does seem to have several advantages. Auctions like 1
♦ - (2
♠) - Pass - (Pass) don't suck.
Weak twos - lame and boring I know but they're better than lots of modern gadgets!
Responses and other structures:
Jacoby done like this
2/1 especially with a dash of Gazilli thrown in. In fact if you're playing 2/1 I can scarcely imagine not playing Gazilli.
Defence to NT:
Barton (similar to Donaldson)
| X | - | penalties |
| 2♣ | - | one or both majors |
| 2♦ | - | 3 suited short major |
| 2♥/♠ | - | 4♥/♠ and a longer minor |
It's got a penalty double and can show the majority of two suited holdings. It's a bit awkward overcalling 2
♣ when all you really want to do is bid 2
♠ but nothings perfect. In response to 2
♣, partner normally transfers to their preferred major, after 2
♦ a major suit bid is 4+ pass or correct.
