Although the underlying points system (e.g. 420 for 4S= non vul) is the same in pairs and teams, the tactics for teams are different.

Bidding

• Bid tight (close) games.
• Deciding between a making NT contract and another (making) contract is not important. For example, you will get the same number of IMPs for a score of +420 as you would for a score of +430.
• Bid slams: small slams on a finesse or possibly two.
• Do not encourage past a part score unless you have a good chance of making a game, e.g. 1S - 2S. Opener should have a good opening to continue. Partner may well have a very minimum response.
• A risky three level bid could be doubled and therefore incur a minus score.
• Sacrifice bidding is good but remember vulnerability. This is similar to pairs.
• If you feel opponents are not going to game then do not push them into one in case they make it and you incur a large minus. You need to be pretty sure you can double them if they go too high.
• Weak hands, come in early, especially with spades and hopefully push them out of their depth or stop them from competing.
• It is important to compete for part scores. IMPs avalaible every time if you get it right.

Play

• Safety play is paramount. Do not try finesses if there is a chance you will go down.
• Overtricks are not so important unless your contract is safe then try for more. Remember your teammates are playing the opposite hands
• Leads are very important - think carefully and above all listen to the bidding.
• Don’t get greedy as defenders. If you can defeat the contract by cashing out winners, do so. Don’t risk declarer making their contract by trying to get extra tricks in the defence.