Bridge

Stayman

Find a 4-4 major fit after a NT opening.

sequence

1NT — 2♣ — (2♦ | 2♥ | 2♠)

how it works

After partner opens 1NT (or 2NT), responder bids 2♣ (3♣ over 2NT) to ask whether opener has a 4-card major. Opener answers: 2♦ = no 4-card major, 2♥ = 4 hearts, 2♠ = 4 spades (denies 4 hearts). Responder then places the contract based on the answer — Stayman is how SAYC partnerships avoid missing 4-4 major fits that the 1NT opening hides.

used in 2 places

2♣2♣ Stayman
after 1N — P
3♣3♣ (Stayman)
after 2N — P