Watch the video lesson first
Remember
Make the honor analysis during the bidding and improve it after you see the dummy:
Equal balance: ~20 HCP or ~5 HT. Expect this in low-level part-scores.
Slight disadvantage: ~22 HCP or ~5.5 HT for the opponents. Expect this in higher-level part-scores or game contracts that consider distributional extras.
Game balance: 24+ HCP or 6+ HT. Expect this when the opponents reach 3NT or the game after a game-forcing bid.
Note: Slams are particular deals, and they depend on many other factors. You are searching only for 1 or 2 tricks. Distributional analysis should help you more with your defensive strategy.
Lesson overview