A small change begets a big change

An Wang, a Chinese-American computer electronics engineer who was an important contributor to the development of magnetic core memory, said, "Markets change, tastes change, so the companies and the individuals who choose to compete in those markets must change."

Small changes in bridge deals can result in surprising changes in the best play. This week we will look at three pairs of deals and see how minor alterations affect the correct lines of play or defense.

In the first two, entries are an important factor. In particular, if declarer is establishing a long suit, he may need an entry to reach the new winners. In this deal, what is South's dummy entry? How should he play in three no-trump after West leads his heart queen?