The central idea
The French Defense answers 1.e4 with ...e6 and prepares ...d5. Black accepts a temporarily constrained light-squared bishop to attack White's center and play for a clear pawn-break structure.
Typical plans
- Strike at the center with ...d5 before White consolidates.
- Choose between ...c5 and ...f6 based on the pawn chain.
- Develop the c8 bishop through a purposeful plan rather than moving it repeatedly.
Common mistakes
- Attacking the chain without first understanding its direction.
- Leaving the king in the center while starting flank operations.
- Playing ...f6 automatically and weakening the king without need.