What has partner shown so far? by Frank Stewart

A: 3♦: Your two spades -- a "reverse" by responder -- was forcing to game, hence you can go slowly. Bid three diamonds. If partner bids 3NT next, pass. But he may show diamond support or bid three hearts to suggest a chunky suit, and then you can play at a safer suit contract.

Your result so far:

A: 4♠: Partner has six spades, four diamonds and a minimum hand. With extra strength, his second bid would have been three spades or two diamonds. You have options. To pass or bid three spades might work. Since you have prime honors and the 10-9 of diamonds, you might try four spades.

Your result so far:

A: 3♣: Partner can't have a spade suit; he did not respond one spade. Logically, his bid must show club support and spade strength. Your second bid improved his hand. It became worth more than a chance-giving raise to three clubs. Since your hand is a minimum, sign off at three clubs.

Your result so far:

A: 3♠: Your partner's auction suggests six spades, four hearts and minimum values. You must not bid 3NT, and since at least one of your kings may be of no value, you should stop below game. Bid three spades. If you held 5 4, A Q 5, A 9 7 3 2, J 9 3, you could reasonably jump to four spades.

Your result so far:

A: 4♠: Partner's three hearts is a try for game and asks you to decide based mostly on your holding in his second suit. With heart honors, you should bid game even with a minimum raise in high cards. The decision is close here, but I would bid four spades. Partner may hold A K Q 5 2, K J 5 2, K 3, 7 2.

Your result so far: