Where would you like to play? by Frank Stewart

A: 3♥: Since you have 12 good points, and partner's double promises opening values or more, you should have a game. Most likely, you will play at four spades, but you need not bid it directly. Cue-bid three hearts to show strength. If partner next bids three spades, you'll raise.

Your result so far:

A: 2NT: Your hand was way too strong for a 1NT opening. To show a balanced hand with a good 18 to 20 points, open one of a suit and jump to 2NT next. Unless you have highly developed methods, any bid by your partner over 2NT will be forcing. If, for instance, he bids three clubs, you will take a three-spade preference.

Your result so far:

A: 4♦: Partner suggests 3-5-1-4 pattern with extra values. If he had a minimum hand, he would have raised your one spade to two. Your ace of diamonds is ideal, and you have good trumps. Bid five clubs or cue-bid four diamonds. Partner may hold A Q 4, A J 6 5 4, 4, A 10 7 5.

Your result so far:

A: 4♣: Partner has a hand worth about 17 points with four-card heart support. Since he didn't open 1NT, his pattern won't be balanced. Your good heart suit, diamond fit and side ace make your hand worth a try for slam. Cue-bid four clubs. Partner may hold A 2, K Q 9 3, A Q 10 6 5, 7 5.

Your result so far:

A: 3NT: You appear to have a 5-3 spade fit (as well as ample strength for game), so to bid four spades would be acceptable. But it won't hurt to let partner use his judgment. Bid 3NT, suggesting 5-4-2-2 distribution. He can return to four spades if he deems it wise.


Your result so far: