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by Richardb02 » Wed Aug 12, 2020 7:00 pm
Let me clarify that going under has a “less than 0.25 benefit.” I mean “LESS THAN” 0.25 benefit. Rounding it off to 0.25 is simply rounding off to the nearest 0.25, which is the smallest increment to the BPS.
I explained those details because most people think that a “System” is meant to provide a precise answer. The Basic Bidding System uses numbers, actually decimals to two places, so it gives the impression of being an exact science. But it is designed to only be accurate for 80% of the scenarios! It rounds off values to 0.25, or 1/4 point. So it can’t be exact. It also can’t be more accurate, or it would be too complicated to use in an actual game. It is more than a guide, but it does not quantify every variable. I allow “non-quantified variables,” “gut in feelings,” and/or “instinct” to adjust my hand value from, 0.25 to 0.75 points. That is significant when compared to a 2.00 to 2.75 range of “minimum to orders.”
In most scenarios, I limit my adjustment to 0.25 points. Feel free to do that even when initially using BPS. Now, if you have 2 factors to consider, feel free to adjust 0.25 each, or 0.50 total, for the hand. Also note, that you have to decide whether to add or subtract the adjustment. The “go under” rule, is a negative adjustment. You would subtract 0.25, because it makes you less inclined to order. So if my hand tallies 2.25 points, but qualifies for “go under,” I subtract 0.25 points, degrading my hand to 2.00, which is the “edge.” I will make a “hand-time” decision at the edge, based on instinct (the intuitive mind, which is a combination of experience, minor factors and gut-level feelings). I will apply this information to your specific question.
R1S4, Rx jjj, as you described creates the following BPS at worse case:
0.50 R1S4
1.00 Right
0.25 R + 1 (I have added this factor since my 1st BPS post)
0.25 9trump
0.25 1 Void
2.25 points
-.25 for a game with the “go under” rule
2.00 The minimum S4 order, so
-.25 If that is your “gut response”
1.75 Pass
____Now, as I said, “going under” is worth less than 0.25, so I order, assuming that there are no other factors, either “gut” factors or “observable” factors. I value the hand as greater than 2.00. I play aggressively, I am comfortable with a 2 out of 3 success ratio. I do not get upset and lose my focus, if I get euchred. (I get upset, at myself only if I fail to make a good [not necessarily the perfect] decision.
I hope, that I have explained, that the BPS, is not a “robotic” approach. It addresses 80% (or more) of the 45,000 hands that the “euchre gods” have dealt you. You are responsible, for the other 20% of the scenarios. Stick to the basics of the BPS, and you can elevate your game to a higher level. Selectively apply, your personal Euchre-playing brilliance, and you will go even higher.
My goal, in constructing and explaining the BPS, is to constantly improve and to consistently play at a higher and higher level. Enjoy the BPS at your level. Come test your skill level at our Monday night games, every Monday, 850 PM ET at worldofcardgames.com. There are instructions on ohioeuchre.com. Feel free to ask any technical WoCG issues. Cya Monday nights and on the OE forum.