When you have weak hands by Frank Stewart

A: 2♥: Your 1NT bid was mandatory; you lacked the high-card strength to respond two clubs. Nor should you show the clubs now since partner is likely to have a singleton there. Bid two hearts, returning to what should be a playable contract. Partner won't expect better heart support after your 1NT response.


Your result so far:

A: 1♠: You must go after your own contract; your clubs are too weak to pass for penalty. The question is how many spades to bid. Since partner may have wasted values in hearts, and you have all those losing clubs, bid only one spade. But an invitational jump to two spades would be acceptable.


Your result so far:

A: 3♣: Many actions are possible; expert opinion would vary. A bid of three clubs to show the long suit and a raise to three spades to suggest prime values and good three-card support are reasonable. I would reject 2NT, which would tell the same story twice and imply a stronger heart holding.

Your result so far:

A: 3♦: This situation calls for delicacy. You may have enough values to make 6NT, but if your partner holds a hand such as A K 2, K 5, A Q 10 7 2, K 6 4, your best contract will be seven diamonds, and if you stop at a small slam, six diamonds will be safer than 6NT. Bid three diamonds, forcing, and see how partner reacts.

Your result so far:

A: 2♠: Your partner doesn't have hearts. He has a huge hand with spade support and perhaps a control in hearts. Bid two spades -- your most discouraging action -- and try not to betray unhappiness. A good partner will let you out below game unless he has a hand such as A K Q 2, A 3, K 6, A K 7 4 3.

Your result so far: