Overcalls immediately after the opening: the takeout double

The takeout double
This is the most economic overcall and calls for the other 3 suits. It promises:
either at least 12-13HCP and at least 3 cards in each of these suits, (don't double with a short major suit),
or at least 18HCP with any distribution.
Careful! With a strong hand, begin by doubling...even if you hold a strong suit.

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Problem E3795 Double so as not to miss a possible heart or spade fit.

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Problem E3786 double It's the rule. Exceptionally strong hands must start with this.

The takeout double with 13-17HCP
This double calls for the other 3 suits. Ideally you should have 4 cards in each suit and...be short in the opening suit!

After a minor opening you need at least 7 cards between the two majors (4+3) and less than 4 cards in the opening suit.
After a major opening you need 4 cards in the other major and to be short in the opening suit.

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Problem E3750A 5431 distribution can be counted as a 3-suiter when the singleton is in the opponents' opening suit. This hand is good for trumps in either diamonds, hearts or spades. It's up to your Partner to choose!

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Problem E4843 The 3 clubs won't hinder a takeout double.

The takeout double with 18HCP and more: the all distributions' double.
You can use it with any distribution and it will show the hand's strength very economically.

With a hand of more than 17HCP you must start by doubling to show your force.
There is no upper limit to this bid.

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Problem 1064 With the firm intention of bidding spades next time round.

The following bids: responses to the takeout double

When the opener's Partner passes, you must respond even with zero points.

with a weak hand bid your best suit at the lowest possible level.
with 8HCP or more, bid your suit with a jump.
with stoppers in the opponents' suit, bid NT.

If the opener's Partner made a bid, you are not obliged to respond to the takeout double.

with 5-7HCP, bid your best suit at the lowest possible level.
with 8-10HCP, bid your suit with a jump.
with 11HCP or more:
- 2NT with stoppers in the opponents' suit
- game with a 5-card major

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Problem E4868 The 3rd seat player has bid 2 clubs so you can choose to bid or not. Your hearts are good enough to bid. A voluntary response to a takeout double promises 5-7HCP.

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Problem E4869 The 3rd seat player has passed so you are obliged to make a bid. One heart here, which doesn't promise much!

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Detail specifications 31EZ - Level 1 ★

Overcalls immediately after the opening: the takeout double

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