There are 3 main kinds of signals:
Count Signal: When declarer leads (from his hand or dummy), you can play hi-lo to show an even number or low first to show an odd number of cards.
Suit Preference: Can be used in many instances, but mainly when you play a card for partner to ruff. A high card (like an 8,9, or 10) shows preference for the higher-ranking side suit while a low card shows preference for the lower-ranking side suit.
Attitude Signal: The most important (by far) signal is used when partner leads a suit or you discard. High means you like it, low means you don't.
The descriptions above assume "Standard" carding (in some parts of the world, the opposite is standard and many U.S. experts play "Upside Down.") For more details click here. For Larry's video lesson, click here.
Declarer has opened 2NT, raised to 3NT. You, West, lead the 
Q to the 5, 2 and ace. Declarer plays the 
4 and you play?
|
|
765 82 KQJ108 543 |
|
| QJ109 J875 93 Q76 |
N W E S |
|
| |
3
9
Declarer has opened 2NT, raised to 3NT. Your partner leads the Q, won by declarer's A. At trick two, it goes 4, 9, K.
Which card did you, East, play to trick 1, and what is your plan for the diamond suit?
| 765 82 KQJ108 543 |
||
| |
N W E S |
82 K1094 A65 J982 |
| |
8 and win the first diamond
8 and win the second diamond
8 and win the third diamond
2 and win the first diamond
2 and win the second diamond
2 and win the third diamond
After the opponents bid 1-2-4, your partner leads the 2 to your ace and declarer's jack.
| Vul: E-W Dir: South |
1095 Q872 KQ 8763 |
|
| |
N W E S |
42 A109 932 A10954 |
| |
What do you, East, play to trick 2?
A
10
4
You are defending against 4. Your partner has led the J, won by declarer. Declarer starts running trumps from the top.
You hold:
5 KQ1098 543 QJ82.
What is likely to be your first discard when declarer starts drawing/running trump?
K
10
8
Low
Q
8
2
Partner leads the A after the opponents have bid 1-2-4. Dummy has 875. You have J102. Which card to you play to trick one?
2
10
J
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