Learn Bridge
Bridge is a fascinating game that you can never master! Learning bridge is a gradual process – the more you know – the more you know that you don’t know! The real secret to learning bridge is to play and make lots and lots of mistakes. Remember - bridge is game - don't take it seriously - have fun! We recommend the following steps:
1. Take a beginner on-line course. A really good starting point is the ACBL's (American Contract Bridge League) Learn to Play Bridge On-line course.
They have lots of learning resources. It is always easier if you can find someone that is also learning that you study with! Some other really good ACBL web pages are:
2. Create a BridgeBase account – it is free. Several people have recommended “Fun Bridge.” Although I have not used it, it gives you hints of what to bid and play analysis. Once you have a BridgeBase account, log on. Under “Play or Watch Bridge”, select “Solitaire” then “Just Play Bridge (Free)”. Robots will be in the other three seats., which bid using the Standard American Bidding System and standard signals. Don’t worry about what these are, you will find out later. Play as often as you can, make mistakes – lots of mistakes. Mistakes are the easiest way to learn. Relish them; they are your friend.
3. Find a partner(s) and group of folks who want to play. Remember the goal is to have fun! It is time to start playing with others! Find a beginner newcomer duplicate game - the more people there are - the more people there are to learn from! If you need help finding a Partner, submit a "Find a Partner Form" located on the home page.
4. Read a beginning bridge book. We recommend “Bidding in the 21st Century.” It was developed by the ACBL in the 1990’s. It is the basis of modern bridge in the USA. The book is excellent! Like all good educational books it (1) tells you what it is going to tell you, (2) tells you and (3) summarizes what it told you. It uses complementing exercises, quizzes and examples to teach each chapter’s message. It is the book we use when we teach – or should I say read you the book.
The next book we recommend is "More Commonly Used Conventions in the 21st Century, which was also developed by the ACBL. It provides very good discussions of the next tier of Standard American System bids (e.g., Negative Double). It is a great investment.
I have extra copies; I sell them for $13. When I can, I buy them in quantity (30 or more). You can buy one from me, borrow one from a friend that has taken the course or (3) buy one on-line for $20 plus shipping. It is worth reading several times – I have read mine at least four times.
5. Play, play and play some more. Don’t worry about making mistakes. Play against the best players you can find, they will obliterate you (Bridge is a game of skill), but with the right perspective (masochism I am told) you will have a lot of fun and learn a lot.
6. Remember it is the journey and not the destination! Just have fun!