Bridge Notes

The Difference between MATCHPOINTS and IMPs ~ Byroner (Charlie)

When playing on BBO, it is important to understand the basic differences between International Match Point (IMP) and Matchpoint (MP) scoring. In summary, both the bidding and planning the play of the hands will differ as follows:

• At IMPs, bid to make even marginal games, especially when vulnerable, and play to make your game contract by the most probable (safest) line of play. Overtricks are less important and are a bonus only in a 'safe' contract. The logic of this strategy is based on the possible reward for a vulnerable game (620 for a major suit) v the reward for a part-score (170) = 10 IMPs. Statistically, if the game has a 37.5% of making, in the long run you will win or break even by bidding marginal games.
• At MP, you win or lose matchpoints only on a scale of 1 MP for each pair you beat and ½ MP for each pair you equal. The size of the difference is of no importance.
• This difference in scoring means that MP strategy will vary from IMP strategy. E.g.: Players will more often play in NT at Matchpoints than in IMPs because NT scores more. For the same reason, players are less likely to play game in a minor at matchpoints because even a 'dodgy' 3NT or 4M scores better and is therefore worth the risk.
• The difference in scoring also affects your planning of the play, especially where you have a 6-3 holding in a suit headed by the A and K. At IMPs you are more likely to go for the 'safety' play and give up a trick in order to ensure the 'safe' 5 tricks; at MPs you are more likely to play for opps to have 2-2 in the suit, therefore you will cash the A K to make the possible 6 tricks; remember - overtricks are important in MP's. The exception is when you have bid a marginal contract (for example - a small slam) that you think nobody else will bid, and you have a safe way of making your contract, don't attempt to make the overtrick.

This is only a brief summary of the differences between IMP's and MP's in duplicate bridge, but I hope it goes some way towards explaining the difference.

Here are links to two articles by Karen Walker on IMP and Matchpoint strategy:

• IMP Team Tactics
• Matchpoint (Pairs) Strategy at Duplicate Bridge

GEOFSPA's Notes

Geofspa's notes are available on the BIL Bridge Club Forum site, www.thinkstop.com/bilbridge/.

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