1.e4 — the open games
French Defence, Tarrasch Variation
1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Nd2ECO C03–C09
White meets the French with the flexible 3.Nd2, keeping the c-pawn free and sidestepping the pin that 3.Nc3 allows. A positional, low-risk way to fight the French that leads to clear, understandable structures — a favourite of players who value soundness over sharpness.
Key ideas
- 3.Nd2 avoids the …Bb4 pin and keeps c3 available to support the d4-centre.
- Against 3…c5 White gets an IQP or a mobile centre; against 3…Nf6 a space-gaining e5 push.
- Black equalises with precise play, but White's setup is solid and easy to handle.
Who it suits
1.e4 players who want a sound, positional answer to the French without heavy theory.
Add it to your repertoire.
Drill the French Defence, Tarrasch Variation move by move against the board until it's second nature.
Open the trainer