Tricky Bidding by Bobby Wolff

A: Pass: How many points are there in this deck? Since it is very common nowadays to use a jump to two spades as semi-preemptive (the same hand but with, say, ace-fifth of spades), it is not easy to show a limit bid in spades. Best is to pass -- which initially indicates nothing to say -- then to jump in spades to show a real spade invitation.


Your result so far:

A: 2♣: Whether you play two clubs as forcing or not, that is the call you should make now. You have no idea what the correct strain or level for this hand is (or even if it is your side's hand), so make a natural call and wait to support spades at your next turn, suggesting very much this sort of hand.3

Your result so far:

A: 4♠: You have just enough to raise to four spades. The reason is that had your partner made a three-spade overcall, he would have already shown a decent opening bid. The double followed by a new suit shows even more extras, and while you cannot be sure your diamond queen and doubleton club will be useful, it is better to have them than not.



Your result so far:

A: 3NT: Did you get fancy, looking to play six clubs or five clubs here? Settle for simplicity and bid the cards in front of you. Both slam and five clubs are a long way away. Respond three no-trump and hope declarer can reach your clubs ... and yes, I'm only joking.

Your result so far:

A: Double: Even though you have only three spades, this hand is ideal for a takeout double. Here, when you double one no-trump, you show an opening hand and the values to double one heart for takeout. Partner will either pass with a penalty double of hearts or describe his hand appropriately.

Your result so far: