On some deals, the outcome is a forgone conclusion. Declarer takes his tricks, loses what he has to lose, and that’s that. On other deals, the outcome might hinge solely on the lie of the adverse cards. The opposing distribution or the location of a particular card determines the result, and there is nothing that can be done about it.

On both types of hands, declarer has little or no chance to demonstrate his skill. But on a third type of hand — more common than the other two — declarer is presented with an opportunity for skillful play. It is on these occasions that he must consider various options and then choose the one that offers either the greatest chance of success or that is designed to overcome an unlucky lie of the cards. Today’s hand illustrates the latter case.

In four spades

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