The choices are:  a)1,  b)1, c) 1, d) 2NT. Which would you choose?

Playing Acol, I would strongly advocate opening this hand 1. It seems clearly the best way to find a 4-4 major fit as soon as possible. If partner bids 1♠ , you can make a strong raise. If the response is 1NT, then 2NT would be an appropriate rebid, and if partner bids 2♦, you can bid 2NT if forcing (recommended) or 3NT otherwise. If you open 1♣ , you have the dilemma over a 1♦  response as to whether you bid a non-forcing 1♥ or 2NT which implies no 4-card major. Opening 2NT is not unreasonable, but making 8 tricks will be very difficult opposite a weak hand.

Playing 5-card majors, you can open 1♣ , but it helps if you play that a 1♦  response denies a 4-card major, otherwise you have the same dilemma.

PART 2- the bidding quiz

Now we can see both hands- can you create a sound and believable auction to the best contract? Send your entries to me at grahamcox1954@yahoo.co.uk (stating your system if not Acol)

A K 9 5                                                                    ♠ J 8 7 4

K 9 7 4                                                                    ♥ A

A                                                                              ♦ Q 9 3 2

K Q 5 4                                                                   ♣  A J 8 6