WEEKLY MAH-JONGG

1. Just before picking 6B, there were 3 best hands: 369 #5 & #6, and S&P #5. But the 6B reduces the desirability of 369 #5. The closest hand is 369 #6. To focus on that would require discarding F. But F is needed for S&P #5. To focus on S&P #5, the possible discards are J, 3C, 9C. To keep both options open just a little longer, I'd toss 3C (it being slightly more likely that somebody will throw 9C than 3C).

2. Two hands: 2006 #2 and Like Nos. #2 (the dragon hands) are far and away better than anything else. No discard leaves both options open. 2006 #2 will be easier to complete, so that's the way to go. Could throw a two, but for now I'd throw the third soap back.

3. Two possibilities: Lucky 13 #3 or Consec. #5. To go for the latter, throw the 3C and wait for F, 7C, or J. To go for the former, throw J and wait for 1C. The three-way wait is much better. Throw 3C.

4. There are some Consec. possibilities with this, but it's definitely a 13579 hand; either #2 or #8. Either way, the 6D pair can go.

5. Two best possibilities: Winds #1, S&P #1. The latter needs less tiles, and is worth more, but will be harder to make. The former is safer, but go for the gusto. I'd throw F (it's the easiest to replace later, if need be).

6. Looks like a Like Nos. hand, but no. Quints #3. Throw 4D. A 2C will have to go eventually.

7. 2006 #1 or Winds #2. For the former, J or Wh has to go. For the latter, 2B has to go - and one N and an S. 2006 is much closer, but risky (gotta get 6B). It's worth more, though, so throw J and hear the groans.