This opening is defined by the position shown on the board below. The moves displayed are a typical sequence that leads to it, but different sequences can reach the same position and still carry the same opening name.
Queen's Gambit Declined: Tarrasch Defense arises after the moves 1. d4 d5 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 c5 4. cxd5 exd5.
Characteristic: This defense is marked by Black's early ...c5 pawn strike, challenging White's center immediately and allowing an isolated d-pawn structure for Black in many lines. Unlike traditional Queen's Gambit Declined setups, Black accepts a more dynamic but somewhat structurally compromised position.
Strategic Nature: For Black, the Tarrasch Defense is a semi-aggressive and active choice, aiming to counterattack White's center rather than purely defend. White typically plays with a slight spatial advantage and targets Black's isolated d5 pawn, making White's approach more positional and attack-oriented. Black, meanwhile, focuses on piece activity and central counterplay.
Center Control: Both sides contest the center actively. White initially establishes central presence with d4 and c4, while Black challenges it directly with ...c5 and maintains tension with the isolated d5 pawn. Overall, the opening is centered on dynamic control and contest of the central squares.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Gambit Declined: Tarrasch Defense, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 14 - Move #6 black
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Gambit Declined: Tarrasch Defense to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.