Negative Doubles
Negative doubles are typically used to show the unbid major after partner has opened the bidding.
 
1C     (1S)     X = negative double, showing exactly 4 hearts and forcing to game, or at least 4 hearts and not strong enough for a 2H bid.
 
1C     (1D)     X = negative double, showing at least 4-3 in the majors, 6 + HCP.
 
1C     (2D)     X = negative double, showing at least 4-3 in the majors and 8+ HCP or a weak hand with spades (then bidding 2S on the next round)
 
1H     (2D)     X = negative double, showing exactly 4 spades and forcing to game, or at least 4 spades and not strong enough for a 2S bid.
 
 
Example 1:
A 7 2 J 3
Q 8 3 2 A J 10 9
Q 7 10 8 5 2
A 9 5 2 Q J 3
 
1C                                  (1S overcall) X = negative double
2H pass
 
Example 2:
A 7 2 K 4 3
K 8 3 A J 10 9
Q J 7 3 2 A 8
A 9 Q J 3 2
 
1D                                  (1S overcall) X= negative double
1NT 3NT
pass  
 
Example 3:
A 7 K Q 10 9 4 2
K Q 3 2 10 4
Q 7 3 J 10 8
K 9 7 3 Q 2
 
1C                                  (2D overcall) X = negative double
2H 3S
pass