Jerry Helms is one of the pre-eminent bridge teachers in the US. He published this article (click to view ) in ACBL's Bridge Bulletin in January, 2008. Please read that article.

I am always asked, “How do I get better?" I couldn’t phrase the answer any better. I think the emphasis on playing with better players for experience is very much under­valued by many of our beginning / intermediate players.

I hope everyone will take Jerry’s advice at heart and try the open games more fre­quently and play with the open players more willingly on Tuesdays and Wed­nes­days. Playing “up” is always good for improving your bridge game. It’s not about master points; it’s about improving your bridge game!