This is an article on opening theory, which might surprise since I usually write about mistakes. Also, in my last post, I wrote that opening theory is mainly a waste of time for club players, so I'll try to clarify what I mean by that.
One reader wrote that I underestimate opening theory, but I don't think that I do. I spend as much time on openings as any of my peers, but I don't spend time memorising long lines. Instead, I focus on the ideas behind the book moves, and try to understand the positions that arises from them. There are three main reasons why memorising long lines is bad for players below the Master level:
- Even if you manage to memorise a line 15 moves deep, it doesn't mean that you understand the resulting position. You'll still be struggling with move 16.
- The line you've learned will probably never happen. If you don't understand why the moves are played, then your homework is wasted as soon as your opponent deviates from your prepared line.
- Memorising lines takes away time from studying more important things like tactics, positional play, and endings.
Many new players try to learn the game from move 1 and onwards, believing that once the know everything 50 moves deep, they're good to go. The futility of that approach was examined in Can Chess be Solved?. A better way is to learn all aspects of the game one step at a time, and the best tool you have is your own games. If you spend as much time analysing them as playing them, you're on the right path.
The Slav Defence
The main line is 3.Nf3 Nf6. Nc3, leading to a whole array of theory-heavy variations. Black's top choices are 4...dxc4 (The Slav Main Line) and 4...e6 (The Semi-Slav), both quite popular at all levels.
The Semi-Slav might seem contradict the idea of developing the Bishop outside the pawn chain, but the pawn structure is more solid than in the QG. Also, Bf4 or Bg4 can only be successful if White plays passively.
There are lots of alternatives for White in the diagram. Before we turn to 3.e3, let's have a quick look at one of them: 3.c5. It may be tempting to end all threats to c4 once and for all, and at the same time grab some space on the queenside, but it's a mistake. After 3...e5, White must play 4.e3, and Black is already better. 4.dx4 fails to 4...Bxc5, and the pawn on e5 becomes a target.
When learning a new opening, it's really helpful to try out all the options at home to figure out what works and why. Do that for both your and the opponent's moves, and you'll develop a deeper understanding of the opening.
The Slav Defence with 3.e3
This move is rarely seen at the top levels, but it's a common choice amongst club players. It's dismissed by theory - not because it's bad, but more on principle. The most natural move is 3.Nf3. This must be played sooner or later, and there is nothing to gain by delaying it. It also prevents Bf5, as Black gets into trouble after 3 Nf3 Bf5 4.cxd5 cxd5 5.Qb3.
Trying to save the pawn by 5...b6 leads to immediate disaster after 6.e4. Figuring out why White is winning is a fun exercise!
One reason for 3.e3 is to protect c4, but that's not necessary, as White gets a good position after 3.Nf3 dxc4 4.e3 b5 5.a4 e6 6.ax5 cxb5 7.b3.
Black has an extra pawn, but it will not last for long.
From a theoretical standpoint, 3.e3 is an unambitious move that allows Black Bf5, which is considered an easy way to equalise. If White wants to avoid the vast theory of the Semi-Slav, it's a playable move, but if Black is determined to play the Semi-Slav, then e6 follows.
The Slav Defence Main Line
1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6 3.Nf3 Nf6 4.Nc3
Black has a number of options here, but the three most common continuations (in order of popularity) are:
- 4...e6, the Semi-Slav,
- 4...dxc4, the Slav main line,
- 4...a6, the Chebanenko Slav.
Black occasionally tries 4...Bf5, but that runs into similar problems as with 3...Bf5 above.
Takeaway
