Exchange Variation

The idea

This reaches the Exchange Variation by another move order: the position is the same as 1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.exd5 cxd5 4.Nf3 Nc6. Both sides have the same symmetrical pawns, an open c-file and a half-open e-file.

Compared with the main line, White has developed the knight instead of playing 4.Bd3, so Black's light-squared bishop can come out to f5 or g4 straight away.

Plans for White

Develop with Bd3 or Bb5, castle and bring the rooks to the center. A knight on e5 and pressure on d5 are White's usual aims. White can also play c4, turning the game into a Panov-style position with an isolated d-pawn and quick development.

Plans for Black

Develop with ...Nf6, ...Bg4 or ...Bf5, ...e6 and ...Bd6 or ...Be7, then castle. The knight on c6 adds pressure on d4, and Black's rook belongs on the open c-file. The structure is symmetrical, so accurate, natural development is enough to equalize.

Watch out for

For Black, the pin on b5. Bb5 pins the knight on c6 to the king, and a White knight landing on e5 piles on. Be ready to break the pin with ...Bd7 or by castling before it costs a pawn.

For White, the danger is playing too quietly. The symmetrical structure is drawish, so a White player who just develops without a plan gives Black an easy game.