French Defense · C05

Tarrasch Variation, Pawn Center Variation

1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nd2 Nf6 4. e5 Nfd7 5. f4

Nd2 sidesteps the Winawer pin and keeps the pawn front intact: White accepts a modest centre in exchange for a sound, theory-light edge.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 1... e6 Supports the centre, adding control of d5. Theory calls this the French Defense.
• 2. d4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 2... d5 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e4, and frees the bishop and queen.

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