Michaels Cue Bid - Helpful When Used Correctly

Another convention that you may have heard of is the Michaels Cue Bid.

For today, we'll focus the discussion on a simple example of this convention when your RHO has opened the bidding at the one level, and you make a direct cuebid of their opening suit; if they open one of a minor, you are promising at least 5 cards in each major. If they open a major, your cuebid promises at least 5 cards in the other major, as well as a 5 card minor.


Here, a 2D bid shows at least 5 cards in both spades and hearts. That is the simple part. As is the case with many conventions, knowing when and with which hand types to use this convention is key to its success.

Notice in the above hand the vulnerability and suit quality. Before you use the convention, imagine that your partner has the mirror hand of yours, 5-5 in both minors. Would you feel comfortable with them declaring your suit at the 2 (or potentially 3 level!) with a small doubleton opposite your worst quality suit...

Another consideration is the point count. A popular treatment is to play Michaels as mini-maxi...meaning that your hand is either minimum strength (8 HCP or less), or maximum (17+ HCP) strength. You will clarify based on action (or inaction) later on in the auction. Conversely, with 5-5 shape and 8-17 HCP, your plan will be to overcall in your higher rank suit first, then follow up if necessary with introducing your second suit. The reason for this treatment is that you want your partner to be able to evaluate whether or not to compete based on a known weak or strong hand (if your hand is weak, the opponents will likely be able to make their contract, or if strong, you should have a reasonable chance at making yours).

Again, be mindful of using Michaels cue-bid with every 5-5. You are giving valuable information to the opponents, and this needs to be weighed against describing your hand in one bid. Be thoughtful, not robotic!



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