Total Points (TP)  

Having calculated your HCP (High Card Points) and your DP (Distribution Points) obtain your Total Points (TP) by adding HCP to your DP. Your TP is the total which helps decide whether you should make an Opening Bid or Pass (P). If you are analysing your hand for a No Trump contract do not use total points; use only high card points.

Valuation Scenarios

1. Before partner has bid, valuing just your own hand

• High Card Points (HCP)= Yes
• Long Suit Distribution Points (LSDP) = Yes
• Short Suit Distribution Points (SSDP) = No
• Total Points (TP)= Long Suit Distribution Points (LSDP) + High Card Points (HCP)

2. After finding a 'Fit' with partner in a Suit Contract

• High Card Points (HCP)= Yes
• Long Suit Distribution Points (LSDP)= No
• Short Suit Distribution Points (SSDP)Short Suit Distribution Points (SSDP) = Yes
• Total Points (TP)= Short Suit Distribution Points (SSDP) + High Card Points (HCP)

3. No Trump Contracts

• High Card Points (HCP)= Yes
• Long Suit Distribution Points (LSDP)= No
• Short Suit Distribution Points (SSDP)Short Suit Distribution Points (SSDP)= No
• Total Points (TP)= High Card Points (HCP)

Total Points (TP) - Practice Game

TP counting for experienced players is effortless but for beginners it can really slow down the bidding. So use our Total Points Practice Game to make your TP counting effortless.

Instant Progress Quiz

Check the correct answer/s

Total Points is the same as High Card points- from this Lesson Yes No

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