for a final contract lower than does Blackwood (in the event that insufficient aces are present). This lower level also allows for an exploration of kings in more cases. A second advantage is that it is highly suitable for potential notrump contracts, whereas with Blackwood a final contract of 5NT may be confused with a bid asking for kings. For this reason, many use Gerber when the potential contract is in notrump. Partnership agreement Depending on the auction context, a bid of 4 may have several meanings; it might, for example, be confused with a splinter bid or a cue bid. For this reason, it is important that partnerships agree, in advance, when 4 is Gerber. Possible partnership agreements for distinguishing 4 as Gerber from other meanings of 4 are: 4 is always Gerber. 4 is Gerber unless a natural club suit bid has been made by the partnership. 4 is Gerber if it is a jump bid or if a suit has been agreed as trump. 4 is Gerber if the immediate preceding bid by partner was in notrump. 4 is Gerber only if it is a jump bid over an opening bid or rebid of 1 NT or 2 NT. (Standard American Yellow Card) 4 is Gerber only when in response to opening bids of 1NT, 2NT or a strong artificial 2. In addition, agreement is required on how to handle responder holding a void and on opposition interference in the bidding. Notes References Bridge conventions