Balancing at the 1-level by Matthias Huberschwiller

A: Double - You may have game, so you need to balance.

But you can't bid 1 NT, since that would show only 12-14 points in this position. You need to start with a double, then 1NT on the second round to show more.

Remember: in the balancing position, you bid like you've borrowed three points from your partner's hand.

Your result so far:

A: Double - You have the right distribution for a double: short in their suit and tolerance (at least 3) for every other suit.

You don't have that many points, and in the direct seat you could not bid. But in the balancing seat you mentally add three points to your hand, and you have enough to double. Of course your partner will know that you have fewer points, and will take that into consideration for his own bid.

Your result so far:

A: Pass - You could bid 1NT. Remember, it shows only 12-14 in the balancing seat. But there is a much better option: pass.

Let them play Spades. With your trump holding you have a great chance of defeating their contract.

Your result so far:

A: 2♥ - There are no pre-empts in the balancing seat. A jump says "I have a 6-card suit and an opening-ish hand".

Your result so far:

A: 2♥ - Had your partner doubled in the direct seat, you would have bid game with this hand. But here, he might have fewer points.

You need to encourage him by jumping to 2♥. You don't have enough to go to game if he has only 10 points.

Your result so far: