Michigan Jump Bid, also known as the Michigan Cue bid or simply the Michigan, is a special bidding convention in the game of contract bridge. It is typically used by advanced players to show a specific holding or combination of cards for partner's benefit during the auction phase of the game. The Michigan Jump Bid is made by responder after partner opens the bidding with 1♣ or 1♦, and the opponent intervenes with a bid of 1♥ or 1♠. The objective of using the Michigan Jump Bid is to convey the holding of a 5-card or longer major suit, enabling partner to make a well-informed decision regarding further bidding. There are two main types of Michigan Jump Bids: 1. Weak Michigan Jump Bid: — Strength: A weak jump bid, typically showing 6-10 high card points (HCP). — Suit Length: Shows a 5-card or longer major suit, either hearts or spades. — Purpose: The purpose of a weak Michigan Jump Bid is to invite partner to bid game, or to indicate a preemptive bid to disrupt the opponents' bidding process. 2. Strong Michigan Jump Bid: — Strength: A strong jump bid, usually indicating a hand with at least 16+ HCP. — Suit Quality: Shows a solid or near-solid major suit, typically holding at least a 6-card or longer suit. — Purpose: The strong Michigan Jump Bid aims to convey a powerful holding in a major suit, allowing partner to make more accurate decisions. It often seeks to reach a slam or investigate further possibilities based on the strength and distribution of the hand. Key benefits of the Michigan Jump Bid include: — Improved communication between partners. — Narrowing down potential suit fits early in the bidding process. — Enhancing the ability to accurately judge the combined strength of both hands and potential for game or slam. In conclusion, the Michigan Jump Bid is a specialized bidding convention in bridge that helps players effectively reveal the length and strength of their major suits, contributing to improved decision-making and overall success in the game.