dopi and depo

DOPI (Double 0 Pass 1) and ROPI
It does not matter if you play 4 or 4NT to ask for aces (or key cards), if the opponents bid over your asking bid then obviously things change.
Let’s assume you are playing simple Blackwood, you have 2 aces and partner bids 4NT to ask. Your response is 5, but what if your RHO sticks in a bid of 5•? The answer is the DOPI convention: -
Double = 1st step (0 aces)
Pass = 2nd step (1 ace)
Next bid (so 5 here) = 3rd step (2 aces)
Next but 1 bid (so 5here) = 4th step etc.
The same principle applies if you play RKCB, Gerber or whatever. Note that the lower responses (double or pass) allow for a possibility of defending against a doubled contract by opponents. Often a good idea if you are short of aces/key cards!
If RHO doubles the asking bid, then there is a similar convention (ROPI)
Redouble = 1st step (0 aces)
Pass = 2nd step (1 ace)
Next bid (so 5 here) = 3rd step (2 aces) etc.

Now I have been careful to mention steps here. For example, If you play standard RKCB then 1st step = 0 or 3 key cards, 2nd step = 1 or 4 key cards etc.

When the opponents interfere above your agreed suit
DEPO (Double Even Pass Odd) and REPO

This is a less popular variation of the above but has the advantage that the opponent’s can always be doubled for penalties.

So when your Blackwood bid is overcalled its REPO: -

Double = Even (0, 2 or 4 aces)
Pass = Odd (1, 3 or 5 aces)

And if your Blackwood bid is doubled: -

Redouble = Even (0, 2 or 4 aces)
Pass = Odd (1, 3 or 5 aces)



Barry Depristo
301 288 7437