Counting your hand's points to bid
Estimating your hand's points and honours helps set a bid. But it's a guide, not a law: shape matters as much as the total.
The values to know
In trumps: jack 20, nine 14, ace 11, ten 10, king 4, queen 3. In a side suit: ace 11, ten 10, king 4, queen 3, jack 2. Counting your honours gives a first idea of your hand's potential, especially in the suit you're eyeing as trump.
Quick-reference table
| Card | Trump | Suit |
|---|---|---|
| Jack | 20 | 2 |
| Nine | 14 | 0 |
| Ace | 11 | 11 |
| Ten | 10 | 10 |
| King | 4 | 4 |
| Queen | 3 | 3 |
Why the total isn't enough
Two 40-point hands aren't equal if one is concentrated and the other scattered. A long trump suit yields tricks that simple honour-counting doesn't show. Conversely, isolated honours (a lone queen) often fall. Use counting as a starting point, then adjust for shape, partner and score. No bid is dictated by a single number.
See also
FAQ
How much is the jack worth depending on the contract?
In trumps the jack is worth 20 points; in a side suit only 2. It's the most dramatic gap in the scale, which explains its weight in choosing trump.
Does a high point total guarantee a good contract?
No. Card distribution and trump length matter as much as the total. A high but scattered count can disappoint, and the reverse too.