Less experienced players tend to play suit contracts rapidly and by a formula, only stopping to think after pulling trumps. Following is the (incorrect) formula approach that we observed in our research.
Do the following without pausing for thought:
- Declare as if the auction had not occurred.
- If you can win the first trick, win it (win it as cheaply as possible; if you can win it cheaply in either hand, win it in your hand, not in the dummy).
- Play trumps next, but there are two exceptions. The first exception is: if you have less than eight combined trumps, don’t play trumps at all. The second exception is: if you don’t have either the Ace or King in the trump suit, don’t play trumps at all.
- If, looking at the trump suit in isolation, it’s normal to take a finesse, take the finesse, without regard to the auction, the lead, or the cards you can see. If it’s a two-way finesse, assume it’s exactly a 50-50 choice, and use your intuition.
After you’ve played trumps, stop and think about what to do next.
In the interest of clarity, we are not recommending this approach. If we were teaching bridge to beginners, a formula might be a useful starting point. But an important first step in becoming a better declarer is to approach each deal thoughtfully, rather than declaring automatically according to a formula.
Our recommendation is not to make any declarer play automatically. Rather, take the opportunity to consider the auction, the opening lead, and all other relevant considerations, then make a plan. And, when anything surprising occurs, take a moment to consider whether you should change your plan.