An ACOL 2 opening bid shows one of two hand types:
- Balanced distribution with 23+ HCP
- Unbalanced distribution with at least enough values to play in a game contract
The conventional responses are:
2 | The negative response, showing 0-6 points |
2 | Natural (4+ cards) and game-forcing |
2 | Natural (4+ cards) and game-forcing |
| 2NT | Natural and game-forcing, with 8-10 HCP including 2 kings |
| 3 | Natural (5+ cards) and game-forcing |
| 3 | Natural (5+ cards) and game-forcing |
| 3NT | Natural and game-forcing (of course), with 10-12 HCP including 3 kings and a jack |
Opener's rebids after hearing a 2 negative response are:
| Any suit | Natural (5+ cards) and game-forcing |
| 2NT | Balanced, 23-24 HCP |
| 3NT | Balanced, 25-27 HCP |
| 4NT | Balanced, 28-30 HCP |
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