Play Where Your Pawns Point

The pawn chain shows the way

In this lesson you will learn

How a pawn chain divides the board
Why each side attacks on a different wing
Attacking a chain at its base
Racing on opposite wings

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4.1 The Pawn Chain

When pawns are locked against each other in a diagonal chain, the board is divided. The side whose chain points towards the kingside gains space there and should attack there; the other side should attack on the opposite wing. A simple rule with a long history: play where your pawns point.

Diagram 4.1Black to move

The Advance Caro-Kann

White’s chain d4–e5 points to the kingside; Black’s chain d5–e6 points to the queenside. Black has already struck at the base with ...c5.

Black puts the rook on the c-file and the queen on b6 to press against b2 and d4. White’s chances lie on the kingside, where e5 gives space for pieces like ♘h4 or g4 ideas. Each side plays on its own wing.

4.2 Attack the Base

A pawn chain is like a tree: attack it at the root. The base of White’s chain d4–e5 is d4, so Black attacks with ...c5. The base of Black’s chain d5–e6 is e6, so White attacks with f4–f5. Attacking the head of the chain (e5 with ...f6) is possible but usually weaker.

Remember

A locked pawn chain divides the board.
Play on the side where your pawns point.
Attack a chain at its base.
In a race on opposite wings, speed decides — do not waste a move.

Exercises · Lesson 4

Every exercise has been checked with a chess engine. Find the best move or choose the right plan.

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Exercise 4.1Find the move

White to move

White to move. Find the strongest move.

Exercise 4.2Find the move

Black to move