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Table Talk 101 · Tips & Tricks
Don’t Cut Too Early
Saving a spade can help later when your partner is already winning this book.
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Written steps
- 1
Check that you are void
You may cut with a spade only when you have no card in the suit led. This example starts with a heart lead and no hearts in your hand.
- 2
Check the current winner
The trick runs 10♥, your partner’s A♥, then 6♥. Your partner is not nil and already holds the winning card.
- 3
Choose with a reason
Playing 2♣ instead of your 5♠ leaves your partner’s ace winning and keeps your spade for later. In other seat positions, consider who still has to play.
Try it at your table
Explain why discarding a club is legal in this example.
Quick check
Must you cut whenever you are out of the suit?
No. You can legally discard another suit instead.