January 16, 1997

Power System Summary

The Power System is closely related to the Polish Club system. Here are some of the most obvious differences.

2C opening shows 10-16 and six clubs or five clubs and four diamonds.
1NT opening shows 17-20 hcp, may have a five card major or six card minor; interesting response structure:
- 2C is first move on shape showing relay sequence. Game force.
- 2D is invitational strength Stayman with opener's 3 level rebids showing top of range.
- 2H and 2S are natural, to play.
- 2NT is a club bust or any 4441 and 8-12 points.
- 3C asks for a five card major, 8-12 points.
- 3D is a diamond bust.
- 3H is 8-12 points, at least eight cards in the minors, 3-4 spades and a stiff or void in hearts.
- 3S is the same as 3H except short spades and exactly three hearts.
- 3NT is the same as 3S except four hearts.
1D, 1H and 1S openings are on five+ card suits and 10-18 points, 12-16 if exactly five and balanced.
1C-1D is still negative, but potentially a bit stronger, 0-9.
1C-1D, 1NT is 15-16 points, balanced, may hold a four card major; afterwhich Stayman and transfers.
1C-1NT is either 13-17 and five diamonds or 17+ with any distribution.
1C-2C is 10-12 points with clubs and no four card major.
1C-2D is 13+ points, usually with clubs.
1D,H,S-2C is invitational strength relay, without the ability to bid 1/1; opener rebids 2D with all minimums.
1D,H,S-2D is game forcing relay, without the ability to bid 1/1.
1x-1y, 1z-2C is artificial 10-12 point hand, all other rebids are 6-9 points.

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