Bidding Conventions >

Minor Suit Stayman


Minor Suit Stayman is an extension of the Stayman convention.

Opener   Responder
1NT 2

A 2 response to 1NT is artificial, showing:

  • 4-4 shape or longer in the minors
  • Interest in game or slam (minimum strength dependent on the opening 1NT range)
  • Denies a 4-card major (otherwise, use Stayman)

Minor Suit Stayman requires the use of Jacoby Transfers in order to free up the natural 2 bid.

Examples of Minor-Suit Stayman hands (opposite a strong 1NT opener):

SA2
HKJ2
DKT98
CAJ83
          SQ
HAT3
DJT98
CA9832
          S7
HK2
DKQ953
CA8765


Opener's Rebids

After hearing 2 response, opener's rebids are:

  • 2NT Denies a 4-card minor. Shows stoppers in both major suits.
  • 3C Shows 4+ clubs. With 4-4 shape in the minors, opener should bid 3C.
  • 3D Shows 4+ diamonds.
  • 3H Denies a 4-card minor. Shows a heart stopper, and invites partner to bid 3NT with a spade control. Forcing.
  • 3S Denies a 4-card minor. Shows a spade stopper, and invites partner to bid 3NT with a heart control. Forcing.
  • 3NT Denies a 4-card minor. Shows maximum strength with stoppers in both major suits.
  • 4C Shows 4+ clubs and maximum strength.
  • 4D Shows 4+ diamonds and maximum strength.