Leading Against 1NT by Matthias Huberschwiller

A: ♥J - Against 3NT, you would lead the ♠2, trying to set up a long suit of your own. Against 1NT, your side will get on lead multiple times, so you need to make a more passive lead.

It's best if Spades are played by your partner, rather than by you.

Your result so far:

A: ♥4 - A five-card suit has to be led when it's not an opponent's suit, even if it's dangerous.

Giving away one trick immediately to get two length tricks later is a good deal!

Your result so far:

A: ♠4 - Think about East's hand. He doesn't have four Spades or four Hearts, nor does he have Diamond support. He must have long Clubs.

Therefore, it's best to lead your second-highest Spade.

Your result so far:

A: ♣8 - You won't lead a Heart or a Diamond. How can you choose between the black suits?

North could have bid Spades at the 1-level, but he didn't. He is therefore more likely to have five Clubs than five Spades.

Lead your second-highest Club with three spot-cards.

Your result so far:

A: ♥2 - With three Hearts, you need to lead your lowest.

Imagine East has Qxx and your partner KJ10xx. You would give away a trick by leading the Ace.

Your result so far: