Bridge with Larry Cohen

There is no more important convention in bridge. A negative double is made by East in this auction:

West	North	East	South
1 of a suit	Any Suit Overcall	Double

Only the partner of the opening bidder can make a Negative Double.

What does it show? Enough to respond (the higher the level, the more the requirements). On the 1-level, it can be made with as few of 6 points. There is no upper limit. A negative double can be made with 20 or more points!

It shows the "other suits" with the focus on the other major. There are 2 specific auctions where the Negative Double comes with guarantees:

West	North	East	South
1	1	Double

This Negative Double guarantees both majors (at least 4 and at least 4).

West	North	East	South
1 (or 1)	1	Double

This Negative Double (after a 1 overcall) guarantees exactly 4 (not 3, not 5). A 1 bid would guarantee 5 or more spades.

At a higher level, you might make a negative double with less perfect shape but no clear bid.

West	North	East	South
1 (or 1)	3	Double

This auction guarantees at least 10+ points, but not necessarily 4 spades.

You might also consider getting Larry's book on Doubles and Redoubles HERE or try Michael's Doubles Webinar which you can find HERE.

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