As one of the most popular card games in the world, contract bridge requires a deep understanding of strategy and tactics to excel. One such tactic is the limit raise, a bidding technique used to convey important information to your partner. In this article, we will explain what a limit raise is and how it can improve your game.

A limit raise is a bid made by a responder to their partner’s opening bid. It indicates that the responder has a hand that is strong enough to support their partner but not enough to make a game bid. In other words, the responder’s hand has a limit in terms of points. A limit raise is typically made when the responder has between 10 and 12 points.

When a responder makes a limit raise, they are communicating to their partner that they have a hand that is supportive of their partner’s bid but not strong enough to bid for a game. The bid also helps the partner decide whether they should continue bidding or whether they should settle for a lower contract.

There are two types of limit raises in contract bridge: the minimum limit raise and the maximum limit raise. The minimum limit raise is made when the responder has between 10 and 11 points and is looking to support their partner’s bid. This bid indicates that the responder has some high card points and is willing to move the game forward.

The maximum limit raise, on the other hand, is made when the responder has 12 points and is looking to support their partner’s bid. This bid indicates that the responder has a stronger hand with more high card points and is willing to push for a higher contract. The maximum limit raise can also be used to show a lack of interest in the opponent’s suit.

Limit raises are an important tool in the arsenal of any contract bridge player. They help players effectively communicate with their partners and make better decisions regarding bidding and game play. By using limit raises, players can increase their chances of success and emerge as strong contenders in the game.

In conclusion, a limit raise is a bidding technique used in contract bridge that indicates that a responder has a hand that is strong enough to support their partner but not enough to make a game bid. There are two types of limit raises, the minimum and the maximum, which are used to convey different information to the partner. By mastering this technique, players can improve their game and increase their chances of success.