However, if the initial response is two over one, the opener already knows of 11 or more HCP, eliminating the possibility that you (the responder) have a weak hand. The responder figures to have a hand that fits into one of the following ranges:
- 11 to 12 HCP: Invitational strength
- 13 to 17 HCP: Game-going strength, at least
The responder completes the picture after the two-over-one response.
The bidding for this hand has gone as follows:
| Opener (Your Partner) | Responder (You) |
| 1♠ | 2♣ |
| 2♥ | ? |
Ask yourself what you know about the opener’s hand. So far, she has given you the following information:
- A range of 12 or more HCP (an unlimited range)
- The likely possibility of five spades and four hearts
- 11 or more HCP, possibly 10 HCP with three spades and side-suit shortness — a hand too strong to raise to 2♠
- Four or more clubs
In the first responding hand above, rebid 2NT, showing 11 to 12 HCP. Notice that you can rebid 2NT with a singleton in your partner’s first-bid suit. When you don’t like either of your partner’s suits and you need to bid again, bidding notrump is often an option.
On the second hand, bid 2♠. You have 12 RP for spades (two extra for the singleton with three-card support), and now is the time to let your partner in on that little secret. In the third hand, you have four-card support for your partner’s second suit. You can revalue your hand, bringing it to 14 RP (three extra for the singleton) — go ahead and jump to 4♥.After you make a two-over-one response, your partner already knows that you have at least 11 HCP. With 11 or 12 HCP, don’t do any jumping — just make a minimum rebid.
Also, many people play that a two-over-one response promises a second bid unless game has been reached. Many others play it forcing to game, no matter what called, playing “two-over-one,” and they swear by it. Something to discuss with partner.