Learn how to play bridge, step by step
Start with the table and the cards, then learn the auction, the play and the score. No previous bridge knowledge is required.
Start with lesson 1Try RVLbridgeHow this beginner guide works
Contract bridge becomes much easier when it is learned in the right order. These ten short chapters introduce one idea at a time. Read them in sequence, or open the subject you need. When the rules make sense, RVLbridge lets you practise them immediately in your browser.
What is contract bridge?
The aim of the game, its two stages and why bridge combines partnership, logic and card play.
The table, cards and partnerships
North, East, South and West; the deck, suits, ranks, dealing and the language used at the table.
How bridge bidding works
What bids mean, how bids outrank one another and how the auction chooses a contract.
Contract, declarer, dummy and defenders
The four roles created by the auction and exactly what each player does.
How tricks are played
Opening lead, following suit, winning a trick and choosing the next card.
Trump suits and No Trump
How trumps work, when ruffing wins a trick and how No Trump changes the plan.
Bridge scoring for beginners
Made contracts, overtricks, undertricks, game, slam and Duplicate comparison.
Your first complete bridge deal
Follow a deal from the cards and auction through the opening lead and final result.
Essential bridge terms
A plain-language glossary covering the words used in lessons, auctions and play.
Beginner questions and answers
Clear answers to the questions new players most often ask.
From reading to playing
You do not have to memorise everything first. Bridge is learned by repeatedly connecting a simple rule with a real hand. Return to these pages whenever a word or situation is unfamiliar.