Are you "fluent" in modern bidding methods? by Frank Stewart

A: 4♣: Partner shows slam interest. If he wanted to stop at four hearts, he would have bid it. Your hand is slammish; you have prime values. Cue-bid four clubs. Even if he signs off at four hearts, you will try again with a cue bid of four spades or five diamonds.

Your result so far:

A: Double: No direct heart raise is descriptive. A raise to three hearts would (or might, depending on your system) invite game but would suggest better support. Your best action is a "negative double" (similar to North's in today's deal) to show values and a spade suit. You can support the hearts later.

Your result so far:

A: 2♦: In "Standard" methods, this problem is tough. A jump-preference to three diamonds would be fine if it's game-invitational, not forcing. But if three diamonds would be forcing, you lack a good call. Unless you want to risk 2NT or try a devious "fourth-suit" two spades, underbid with two diamonds.

Your result so far:

A: 2♦: Back when the Goren style was popular, the right bid was three hearts, forcing. Now, most players treat responder's jump-rebids as invitational and must try two diamonds, a "fourth-suit" bid that shows only a desire for partner to act again. I dislike recommending an action that seems bizarre, but that's modern bidding.

Your result so far:

A: 2♦: This problem is awkward in "Standard" methods. A jump to three hearts would only invite game, and you have enough strength to insist on game. Bid two diamonds, forcing, and support hearts later if partner won't think that sequence suggests even more strength. The option is to bid four hearts at your second turn.


Your result so far: