Bidding After a 1NT Overcall by David Bird

A: 2♦. When you have enough HCP to be sure that your side has the balance of the strength, you can begin with a (penalty) double. So, your bid of 2♦ is not only non-forcing; it is known to be a fairly weak hand.

Your result so far:

A: 3♠. As on the previous problem, you are known to hold a weakish hand in terms of HCP. Otherwise, you would have started with a double.

Your raise is pre-emptive. The opponents may have a fit in either red suit, and this will make it harder for them to find that fit.

Your result so far:

A: 3♣. You have no guarantee that you will make club tricks against 1NT, so a double would be very risky. Declarer might hold up his ace and end with an overtrick.

Bidding 2♣ will not be much use, since the opponents will surely compete. The best idea is to pre-empt with 3♣. Again, this cannot be strong, since you would launch all good hands with a double.

Your result so far:

A: 2♣. You may not have heard of this move, but many players like 2♣ to show the majors. They reason that a natural bid of 2♣ is not likely to win the auction. Meanwhile, it is good to have a bid to look for a major-suit fit.

Your result so far:

A: Double. Neither 2♠ nor 3♠ will come close to describing this hand. With a 10-count and a good lead to make against 1NT (the ♠2), you will be happy to defend 1NT.

If the next player runs to 2♦ or 2♥ and this comes back to you, you can bid just 2♠, having already told partner that you have a respectable point-count.

Your result so far: