The theatre of operations for the English/Sicilian is usually on the queenside, except when central themes need to be considered.
The thematic pawn advance on the queenside may not be correct if the centre is not blocked/kept under restrain & observation. So it may be you need to give some thought to the dynamics of the centre. Attempting a flank attack can be like trying a round house kick where you get floored by a straight left....
I didn't notice, any mention by you.. of how long you've been trying, Not to be stumped! -- Depending, on the length of time involved - It would help determine, if you have a genuine 'mental block' concerning that - Or are merely being somewhat impatient!? -- As in, " 'Rome' wasn't built in-a-day"!
Even by reviewing 'online' {where it's arguably cheaper, and more convenient, than a book}.. the pertinent sub-variations, you were asking about - If, you're not already there, {in appreciating, why 'white' or 'black' won} - The time will, or at least, Should come - When you won't need to be told, or more likely read.. Why one-or-the-other 'color' won - Or what even made, for a strong move! ..{Ie. superior development - a 'piece' or 'pieces' tieing up.. through centralized placement, the opposing player, etc.}
d5 targetting c4 , heres how i deal with it , my c1 knight goes to d2 this gives more protedtion to c4
Yes only 3 weeks but I want to get better and build Rome. I struggle with creativity sometimes being newbie ish and I think the English invites creativity. Thanks for non troll like awnsers.
How to play the English opening, by Nigel Povah, is the must have book on this opening.
Old but who cares?
It gives u the essential ideas, the basics, it is what u need.
A long time ago - 'I.M.' "John Watson" authored a 3 volume {hardback}, series, on the 'English' opening - Even though, I've long since been at the point, where I tend to recognize the best/most logical moves.. without benefit, of an opening 'tome' or book,
One major exception, in my case.. "The Budapest Defense".. As in, knowing it somewhat superficially - Don't 'cut-the-mustard'! o:
I've been exploring the English opening recently but having mixed results. When I play others e4 d4 I feel like I lose not because of the opening where as the English I feel it is the opening. I strive to get into positions like the Botvinnik and Staunton formation? And also an early rook to b1 with a b4 to b5 pawn push. But when I can't get to these set ups I get completely destroyed! I should note that I never studied the Sicilian so when I watch vids on the tube and they say "oh you're playing the dragon a tempo up which is great" at this point in my chess life that's pointless. I Do Not struggle with an early Bb4. It's mostly whenever I can't play my 3 set ups I listed I get destroyed. If my development is interrupted I'm usually ruined. My biggest cliff fall is an early d5.. It gets me every time. CAN ANYBODY maybe explain some ideas on a newbish level to me or even better explain how I could learn more? A certain book, video, or certain games. I've already watched countless vids on the tube explaining the opening but I think I need more help when black plays not into my hand. I come from playing a London/ queens gambit. Oh... I really enjoy the knight on e2. But get confused when it's at f3 with the English.