The central idea
The Queen's Indian Defense develops ...Nf6, ...e6, and ...b6 to contest the long diagonal and d5. Black seeks a sound structure with flexible counterplay against White's central ambitions.
Typical plans
- Develop the b7 bishop with a clear target on the long diagonal.
- Challenge d4 with ...d5 or ...c5 when appropriate.
- Coordinate the queenside before committing the center.
Common mistakes
- Fianchettoing without controlling the central dark squares.
- Allowing White to build e4 uncontested.
- Trading the b7 bishop without gaining central concessions.