Table Talk Spades
Learn SpadesStart a table
All lessons

Table Talk 101 · Tips & Tricks

Protect Your Partner’s Nil

When your partner bids nil, protect their zero-book goal while still making your own plan.

0:13 · captions on · tap the speaker for sound, it stays on for the next lessons

Written steps

  1. 1

    Spot the danger

    Your nil partner plays Q♥ on a heart lead. If it remains the highest card, they may accidentally win the book.

  2. 2

    Cover legally

    If you play later and hold A♥, the ace can cover their queen. Follow the suit led; nil protection never permits a renege.

  3. 3

    Watch the full trick

    Who still has to play matters. Cover when it helps, but remember your own regular bid and the possibility that another player already wins.

Try it at your table

Explain how A♥ can keep your partner’s Q♥ from winning.

Quick check

Can covering nil excuse a renege?

No. You still have to follow suit.

Start a table
All 32 lessons