Caro-Kann Exchange Variation

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NielsAbel

What setup will be the best for black if he is a positional player after 4 Bd3?

OsageBluestem
Is this the opening you are referring to?
yusuf_prasojo
Nashlen wrote:

What setup will be the best for black if he is a positional player after 4 Bd3?


Why should it be different if he is a positional player?? (There are many possibilities after 4.Bd3 that will change your plan).

A positional player always look deeper into a position. I'm a positional player and this is what I would think when I play against a strong opponent:

1) I know that I'm not required to attack unless my opponent doesn't know what he is doing. I will build a better pawn structure, put pieces in positions flexible enough to answer any possible problems given by my opponent

2) I will pay attention to the structure of my pawns, compare it to my opponent's pawn structure, to ensure that when I can at least successfully defend the midlegame I would have a winning endgame.

3) To defend successfully I need to think of the best position for my pieces so that it can easily answer any problems given by my opponent (including counter-attack possibility). Like in many other opening, especially when Black is a little bit behind in development, I will prioritize ...Nc6 and ...Nf6 (or may be ...Nh6).

4) Now, I look at the position after 4.Bd3 to determine what "setup" to choose.

I have an open c-file, and I expect my opponent's c-pawn to stay at c3 to support his d4. I have a chance at Queenside, not to attack but to develop a winning endgame. I have to defend the kingside, efficiently. There is one key feature that I will use to achieve both of these goals: I will put my dark bishop to control the main diagonal!! (through ...Bg7).

yusuf_prasojo

BTW, I hope that you understand why the fianchettoed bishop is an important key element for winning such position Wink

Lane-TIOBE

I've read that 5. Qc7 is playable as well. Which is my preference when faced with the exchange variation.