Responding to a Balancing Double by Matthias Huberschwiller

A: 2♥ - You were way too weak to show your Heart fit on the first round, but now that you are forced to bid, bid Hearts.

You are not showing a Heart fit, only preference for Hearts. You could have bid 2♥ with only two cards if you had nothing better to do.

Your result so far:

A: Pass - Would you have passed 2♣ on the first round? It's called a trap pass. When you would like to make a penalty double after an opponent's overcall, but you can't (because a double would be for take-out), you need to start by passing, in the hope that your partner will balance with a double. You can then convert the double by passing.

Here, your dreams have actually come true. Your partner has doubled, so you can pass with delight.

Your result so far:

A: 2♦ - Wow, that's a weak hand! Your partner has promised at least 3-card support in each unbid suit. You therefore have a Diamond fit. Bid 2♦.

Your result so far:

A: 3♥ - You could bid 2♥ with zero points. You therefore need to encourage your partner by jumping, but remember the last quiz: North might have a minimum hand. Therefore, you can't bid game on your own.

Your result so far:

A: 2♥ - Bidding at the 3-level with only four cards is too risky. The safest bid is 2♥. Even though you only have two cards, at least you will be playing in a 5-2 fit at the 2-level.

Your result so far: