| Tips for Newcomers |
- Read a Good Book
There is plenty of stuff on the internet, just make sure you search for Acol, but for many a book is best. If you are relatively new or haven’t played for a while then Paul Mendelson’s “The Right Way to Play Bridge” might be a good choice. It is a basic guide to modern Acol and card play. He also has a book for Complete Beginners. If you want to sharpen up your card play try “Winning Ways to Play your Cards”.
- Keep it Simple
It can be daunting to face a room of strangers and unless you bring a friend, to meet up with a new partner for the evening. For the less experience, I advise agreeing a system of really basic Acol – avoid transfers, weak twos etc. for the first few weeks. If you prefer to come and watch on your first visit that is fine too.
- Ask Questions
Your opponents may play all kinds of weird and wonderful conventions. Don’t panic! You can ask about their bids when it is your turn to bid or at the end of the auction.
- Handle Your Cards
Don’t sit North. They do all the work.
Start by counting your cards, then look at them and sort as you wish.
The opening lead will normally ask “Any questions?” A chance for you to ask about the bids.
Dummy should arrange the cards with the trumps on the right.
At the end of play, give the cards a quick shuffle and return to the board.
- Review the Result
Later, have a look at the club website. Review the night’s result. Pick one or two hands and see how you and others did. There’s a facility to replay hands and try different lines of play.
If you happen to play an online session, all the bidding and play is recorded, so even more data to examine.
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