Answers:

Answer #45

Three possible hands are given for South, but only one is consistent with their bidding. Which one? What would the others hands have bid differently? Both non-vulnerable.

North		East		South		West
-- 1NT		-- Pass		1 ♥ 2 ♠		Pass

Hand a)

♠ A J 8 2
♥ A K 7 5 2
♦ 7 2
♣ 4 2

Hand b)

♠ A K J 7
♥ A J 6 5 3 2
♦ A
♣ Q 2

Hand c)

♠ A Q 7 4 2
♥ A K J 6 2
♦ 5 4
♣ Q

Answer:

b) is correct.

Partner has denied four spades, but 2♠ is still a good bid with Hand (b). The bid is “semi-forcing”, meaning partner will only pass with a very misfitting minimum. 2♠ is the best description of your hand. You’ll hope to follow with 3♥ to show your 4♠-6♥ shape and let partner judge.
With Hand (a), you should pass 1NT. Not ideal, but 2♠ is getting you nowhere, because you cannot have a fit.
With Hand(c), you should have opened 1♠. See the Beginner Corner for why. Bidding 1♥ then 2♠ 100% guarantees more hearts than spades.

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Answers:

Answer #45