Ethics and Helpful Hints - Helpful Hints - (7) September 2011

HESITATIONS

 One of the most common forms of unauthorised information is the PAUSE that suggests doubt. This is generally called a hesitation.   It is important to understand that thinking about the hand IS hesitating.

 When deciding whether a "hesitation" points to a particular course of action by Partner, The Director uses the following as a guideline:

1.              if a player hesitates and the passes, he would welcome a bid or double from partner.

2.            if a player hesitates and then doubles he would not be unhappy if his partner removed the double.

3.            after a suit is agreed if a player hesitates and then bid no trumps they would not be unhappy to hear their partner go back to the agreed suit.

MADELINE LAWSON

Chief Director