The French Defence

BOLD MEANS MAIN LINE

Starting Position: Example #1

So the 4 rules are

Step 1. Only Develop all your queenside pieces, so that the rook and the king is clear

Step 2. Castle on the Queenside

Step 3. Develop your 2 kingside pieces. 

Step 4. Play Rfe8

And you have a very comfortable position. 

The Tarrasch variation

3. Nd2 is the Tarrasch, but it is highly unlikely they will play this, and you play this like your opponent played the Advance (Read Below)

The Main Line, The French Advance Variation

Here we are, the Main Line. 

Well explained for I am seeking a good solid positions against e4.

Good job !

Thanks!

What about the main move 3.Nc3?

Against Nc3, try 3..Nf6 4.e5 nfd7 5.f4 c5 6. Nf3 Nc6 and try a6-b5-bb7

I mean there are a gazillion tries vs the steinitz so....

And vs 4.Bg5 the most solid choice is Be7 with bb4 being the super sharp contination

My preference is currently the Winawer, but the Classical is arguably a more solid choice. It was just funny to me he omitted all mention of the main line 3.Nc3 and portrayed the Tarrasch as a rare line you can play like the Advance. However, I suppose that's how it is at lower levels. I can't think of a player under 1600 who has played either 3.Nc3 or 3.Nd2 against me, yet these are the main moves at master level. At class level, it seems nearly everyone plays the Exchange or the Advance (which is great for Black players).

Here is a link to the FRENCH Themed Tournament #2

http://www.chess.com/tournament/french-theme-tournament-2

This is the second French Theme tournament after a successful turnout. It will be a recurring tournament for French enthusiasts.

For information and the most awesome videos on how to play the French visit Simon Williams vids:

http://www.chess.com/video/library?keyword=why simon loves the french

In the diagram 6re1 isn't a great move. 6d4xc5 or 6na3 then live isn't so easy for black.