Opening course · C00 to C19
Learn the French Defence
The French Defence starts with 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 c5. Let White build a centre, then hit its base with …c5.
- You play Black
- For club players
- Rated about 1000 to 2600
What you will learn
- 1 The idea 4 steps
- 2 Main line 11 steps
- 3 Key variations 5 steps
- 4 Traps 2 steps
- 5 Plans and middlegames 5 steps
- 6 Test yourself 9 steps
Key ideas
- 1…e6 and 2…d5: let White build, then hit back.
- Against e5: …c5 hits the base of the chain, …f6 later the head.
- Pile up on d4 with …Nc6, …Qb6 and …Nf5, and count every move.
- Against a3: …c4 locks the queenside and gives your knight b3.
Traps you will see
- The check on b5 Set by White
- Don’t grab the rook Set by White
Model games
- Tigran Petrosian Kelendzheridze 1945
- Peter Clarke Tigran Petrosian 1958
- Igor Zaitsev Tigran Petrosian 1969
Questions
Is the French Defence good for beginners?
It suits club players from about 1000 to 2600. Beginners can follow the course, but some lines need care.
What are the first moves of the French Defence?
1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.e5 c5.
How long is the course?
6 chapters with 36 steps, each played out on the board with your coach.
Which traps does the course cover?
- The check on b5
- Don’t grab the rook