I often get asked, "Larry, what should we do when they use a Convention (such as CAPPELLETTI, or DONT against our Strong Notrump?) There is no fast answer. To cope with interference, you need to do a little studying and memorizing. Otherwise, be prepared for some accidents. You and your partner have to come to some agreements.

It is impractical (unless you are a world-class bridge pro) to try to memorize different schemes versus different methods. To play System-A against DONT, but System-B against CAPPELLETTI, and System-C against Brozel would be too much memory drain.

Here is a simple scheme to deal with any kind of interference--you can choose parts or all of it. For a more complete (and more difficult scheme), click here.

They DOUBLE

If they double 1NT (as a convention), don't even bother asking what the ALERT means. Just ignore the interference. I mean I-G-N-O-R-E! All your bids mean what they would have meant without the artificial double. If 2 would be a transfer, then it is still a transfer. Just pretend they passed. "Systems on."

[If they PENALTY Double 1NT, then just play ALL NATURAL -- no Stayman, no Transfers. Use XX as a rescue/runout.]

They Overcall with 2

You can also ignore ALL 2 overcalls (no matter what they mean). You double to say, "They stole my bid." So, double is Stayman. All other calls mean what they would have meant if the opponent had passed. 1NT (2) 2 is a transfer to spades.

They Overcall with 2 or Higher

If they overcall 2 or higher, I suggest you abandon transfers completely. Bid naturally (and if you know lebensohl, you can use it). Play DOUBLE as "negative." It would take too long to explain exactly what qualifies as "negative." But, here is a simple explanation: It is NOT penalty. It is not purely showing the other major(s). It just means, "Partner, I have values to bid, but no bid I can conveniently make." So, double a 2 overcall with:

AJ32
K62
54
10876.

This scheme is not 100% complete, but it will help you cope with most situations with a minimal amount of memory strain. If you want a more thorough treatment, click here (but I warn you to be prepared for a headache).

updated: February, 2018