Caro-Kann Defense (for Black)

The Caro-Kann Defense (1.e4 c6) also prepares the d5 push, like the French, but the c6 pawn leaves the c8 bishop's diagonal open. Black gets a very solid position with few weaknesses.

The principle

After 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5, Black challenges the e4 pawn. The typical plan: develop the light-squared bishop before playing e6, then free the game with the c5 push.

The main line: the Classical Variation

3.Nc3 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5 5.Ng3 Bg6 6.h4 h6 7.Nf3 Nd7 8.h5 Bh7 9.Bd3 Bxd3 10.Qxd3. White gains space on the kingside with the h-pawn and often castles queenside; Black, without weaknesses, has a very healthy position.

Main variations

• Advance Variation: 3.e5 Bf5 4.Nf3 e6 5.Be2 c5. Black gets the bishop outside the pawn chain, then attacks d4 with c5.
• Panov Attack: 3.exd5 cxd5 4.c4 Nf6 5.Nc3 e6. White often ends up with an isolated pawn on d4, with active play as compensation.
• Exchange Variation: 3.exd5 cxd5 4.Bd3 Nc6 5.c3. The structure is almost symmetrical: better piece organization makes the difference.

Coach's advice

The Caro-Kann is ideal if you like clear, solid positions. With Black, don't become too passive: the c5 push at the right moment frees your game. With White, space is your asset, use it before Black finishes developing. Click the colored moves to follow each line, then ask me your questions.

Main line

1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Bf5 5.Ng3 Bg6 6.h4 h6 7.Nf3 Nd7 8.h5 Bh7 9.Bd3 Bxd3 10.Qxd3