How do you best describe your hand? by Bobby Wolff

A: Double: In the context of what you have shown already, it looks right to me to double two diamonds, very much suggesting this pattern. You might ask yourself where the spades have gone, and what you plan to do if the opponents run to two spades. I say sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.

Your result so far:

A: Pass: Your partner has suggested extra values and four hearts with five-plus clubs. Is your hand worth a raise here? I'm not sure, but my instincts say no because I do not think these values are pulling their full weight. Give me the jack of hearts instead of the spade jack, and I might raise.

Your result so far:

A: 3NT: The world is divided into those who ignore the possibility of playing a minor here and those who are prepared to explore every option, at the risk of giving away information. The former bid three no-trump to offer a choice of spades or no-trump; the latter bid three clubs. My spade spots tempt me toward the former position.

Your result so far:

A: Pass: Pre-empting style is largely a matter of philosophy, but since I believe mine is as good as anyone else's, I'll share my thoughts here. While I might open this hand in third seat, I hate to open a pre-empt with unexpected defense or too much playability in three suits (especially the unbid major). The weak spade spots are the real killer here. Passing may not get the job done, but it feels right on all counts.

Your result so far:

A: Pass: With no fit and not much in the way of extras, you have no reason to go any higher than you currently are. Partner is as likely to have length in diamonds as clubs, so there is no real guarantee of any source of tricks anywhere. Simply pass one no-trump and hope to go plus there.

Your result so far: