If there’s one thing that I have learned about board games and life that should be passed on to others, it would be that assumptions are a dangerous thing.

When we assume things, we take a leap of faith into the depths of thinking that we’re smarter than the next person. An assumption is rarely based on truth, but instead rooted in false confidence – and in the average bridge game, that’s going to get you beat.

About to play your next bridge match? Beware of the assumption. It’s the quickest way to lose everything you know about technique, and rely on a leap of faith straight into a dragon’s flaming mouth.

Here are some assumptions about your next bridge opponent (& why they’re probably wrong).

1. Assuming that you’re going to win (or lose).

Never assume that you know how a game is going to end – even if your opponent’s skill level seems higher or lower than that of your own partnership.

If you knew, you would be a fortune teller (or the game would be rigged). Every time people play bridge, they play having absolutely no idea what’s going to happen next.

It’s what keeps the game exciting.

2. Assuming that you’ve studied their every trick.

Studying an opponent’s every move is an excellent strategy, but never play under the assumption that it guarantees a win for either side.

That, dear reader, only works in movies.

Study their playing style as much as you want, it’s how you play during the minutes of the match that will matter. Learn how they think, not how they play.

3. Assuming that they’re better (or worse) than they really are.

A player’s masterpoints can only tell you so much about their abilities – and even their win-to-loss ratio isn’t a safe assumption for knowing how good an opponent will be.

At the start of the game, never assume you have an opponent’s ability figured out. You’d be surprised at how fast this assumption can give your opponent the match a silver platter, together with a big red bow and everything.

4. Assuming that you have their strategy figured out halfway through.

Assumptions are a bad idea at the start of a match, and I think I’ve established that. But remember that assumptions are just as dangerous made at any other point in your game.

Don’t assume that a player’s starting strategy defines their game halfway.

Play, and always play well. Don’t base your moves on any assumption.

5. Assuming that you know who they are (or how they play).

Great players have bad days, and bad players have great days.

Don’t ever think you completely know a player or partnership from what you have seen before. Odds are different, environments are different, and the time and place has changed.

Again: Play and play well, regardless of who (or how good) you think your opponent will play.