Developing good habits at the table is an important part of learning bridge. Most new players have difficulty staying within the time for each round. Here are some best practices for staying within the allotted time to play the boards.
- When you come to the table, or when the opponents come to your table greet them and cease all conversation about the previous hands.
- Once the hands are removed from the board, all conversation should stop.
- As the bidding progresses, try to focus on what’s being communicated by each bid. Before the last pass and picking up your bidding cards, try to memorize the auction.
- If you are to make the Opening Lead, ask your questions about the auction, select your lead, and place it face down on the table before writing down the contract. Everyone else should write down the contract while the lead is being selected. Then ask partner if they have any questions. Write down the contract while dummy puts their hand down.
- Do not expose your private score to the opponents.
- After the play of the hand, write down the score, and if you feel the hand needs further discussion with your partner, circle the board number and make a note on your private score.
- After the round is over, if there is still time available for discussion, you can ask partner or the opponents a question. Don’t try to resolve partnership communication or play issues during the game. It’s best to wait and look over the hand record first.
These tips can save you a few minutes each round. The can also lead to better partnerships by not being critical during the game and waiting until later to resolve issues. For further reference: http://www.omahabridge.org/Library/mh_BRIDGE_ETIQUETTE.pdf
