bucc35 Posted July 21, 2009 Report Share Posted July 21, 2009 Please, where can I find instructions on how to use the Alert system during bidding? I sometimes see an explanation of an alert on screen; is that generated automatically or would I be required to type an explanation at time of alerting - and how? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
helene_t Posted July 21, 2009 Report Share Posted July 21, 2009 Hi Bucc35, welcome to the forum! Playing online, you must alert your own calls, not partner's. You do that by clicking the "Alert" button when making the call, and entering a short explanation in the text field that appears. For example, if you open 2♦ and don't alert it, opponents may assume it is a weak two in diamonds. If you have some other agreement with partner, you must alert it. If you want to know (more) about what a call by an opponent means, click on the call in the auction dialog. That will prompt the bidder to explain. Likewise, a small "explain call" dialog may show up when an opponent has clicked on one of your calls to inquire about your agreements. Some explanations are generated automatically. You can select one of the standard convention cards (for example BBO Advanced), and the system will then alert those calls that are defined by the convention cards. Many calls are not defined, though. In such cases, you may still have to alert yourself. You are never required to explain how you interpret your partner's calls. He/she will explain them. If the text field for explanation is too short, send private message to opponents. Not to the table (partner is not allowed to see it). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
barmar Posted July 21, 2009 Report Share Posted July 21, 2009 If you fill in the Explanation field in the bidding area, you don't need to click on the Alert button. Automatic explanations that Helene describes only occurs if you use one of the "Full Disclosure" convention cards. If you're using one of the normal, graphical convention cards, you must explan calls yourself. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sadie3 Posted July 22, 2009 Report Share Posted July 22, 2009 I do not think that a full disclosure care relieves one from alerting alertable calls. It may explain the bid, but it does not fulfill the requirement of alerting a bid. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bucc35 Posted July 22, 2009 Author Report Share Posted July 22, 2009 Many thanks to all for prompt assistance. I am getting the hang of it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tola18 Posted July 23, 2009 Report Share Posted July 23, 2009 If the text field for explanation is too short, send private message to opponents. Not to the table (partner is not allowed to see it). Although, playing friendly, is is quite common it is allowed with some explanation to partner, ie messaging openly into the room, as most partners are pick ups...Usually it is which variation of the Blackwood /RKCB) they use, or such. You cant count on it - some opps do get sour (they do have the law with them). But it is common enough to know it is OK on BBO if opps dont mind. So allow also the ops as long they dont overdo it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bucc35 Posted July 23, 2009 Author Report Share Posted July 23, 2009 Thank you. These forums are most helpful Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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