Panov-Botvinnik Attack

The idea

Instead of the quiet Exchange Variation, White plays 4.c4, attacking d5 again. After the usual 4...Nf6 5.Nc3, the position often turns into one with an isolated d-pawn for White, once the c-pawn is exchanged on d5.

White gets rapid development, a grip on e5, and kingside attacking chances in return for that weak pawn.

Plans for White

Develop quickly with Nc3, Nf3, and Bd3 or Be2, and use the open lines. A knight on e5 and pressure on the kingside are the typical plans.

The queen often comes to b3, hitting d5 and b7. Keep pieces on the board: the isolated pawn is a strength in the middlegame and a weakness in the endgame.

Plans for Black

Develop with ...Nf6, ...e6 or ...g6, and ...Nc6, put pressure on d4, and look to trade pieces. The square in front of the isolated pawn, d5, is the ideal place for a Black knight.

The sharp 6...Bg4 line leads to forced play in which the queens often come off, which suits Black.

Watch out for

For Black, the danger is underestimating White's attack. If Black is slow to castle or neglects the pressure on d5 and b7, White's lead in development turns into a quick attack.

For White, the danger is the endgame. If too many pieces come off, the isolated d-pawn has no compensation and becomes a long-term target.

History

The attack takes its names from Vasily Panov, who worked on it in 1929-1930, and Mikhail Botvinnik, who developed it further and used it against the Caro-Kann, which is why it is often called the Panov-Botvinnik Attack.