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Best books to learn Contract bridge, in order

Bridge has two halves—bidding and play—and beginners drown because they meet both at once. Start with the mechanics and a simple bidding system, since bidding is a language you and your partner must share, then learn declarer play and the counting that turns guesses into plans, then take on defense, the hardest and most rewarding phase. Build the bidding language first, then the card-play skill that makes it pay.

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Reading paths for contract bridge

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Frequently asked questions

How should I approach learning contract bridge?
Bridge has two halves—bidding and play—and beginners drown because they meet both at once. Start with the mechanics and a simple bidding system, since bidding is a language you and your partner must share, then learn declarer play and the counting that turns guesses into plans, then take on defense, the hardest and most rewarding phase. Build the bidding language first, then the card-play skill that makes it pay.
What's a good book to start contract bridge with?
A strong starting point is The Total Structure of Defense by Jim Hess. The ordered reading paths above show exactly where it fits and what to read next.
What should I read after contract bridge?
Once you have the fundamentals, explore closely related subjects like Scrabble & word games, Coin collecting, Saltwater & reef aquariums.

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