Counting high-card points

When in doubt, keep communication between your hand and dummy. An entry you waste early is a trick you cannot take later.

Do not fall in love with your first plan. Check it against the bidding and the early tricks, and be ready to change course.

• Count your sure tricks.
• Look for the extra tricks you need.
• Choose the order of play before you touch a card.

Try it: next time you are declarer, say your plan to yourself before playing from dummy.