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: Semi-Tarrasch Defense, Exchange Variation
This opening arises after the moves 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 d5 4. Nc3 c5 5. cxd5 Nxd5 6. e4. The key characteristic of this line is Black's early ...c5 and recapturing on d5 with the knight, which leads to a Semi-Tarrasch structure. White's 6. e4 aggressively challenges Black's knight on d5 and stakes a strong claim in the center.
Characteristic: The Semi-Tarrasch Defense blends elements of both the Queen's Gambit Declined and Tarrasch Defense, with Black aiming for active piece play and pressure on White's center. White's Exchange Variation with 6. e4 is aimed at gaining a spatial advantage and central control.
Attacking or Defensive: For White, this is an attacking setup, focusing on controlling and expanding in the center. Black plays more dynamically than in the traditional Queen's Gambit Declined, seeking counterplay against White's center, but must be ready to defend against White's central initiative.
Center Control: This opening strongly targets the center. White establishes a strong pawn presence with pawns on d4 and e4, while Black challenges this center actively with pressure on d4 and attempts to undermine White's control.
Practice puzzles and train your tactics with real positions from games that used the Queen's Gambit Declined: Semi-Tarrasch Defense, Exchange Variation, and sharpen your opening mastery.
Puzzle 1 of 4 - Move #9 white
You can also discover how top players used Queen's Gambit Declined: Semi-Tarrasch Defense, Exchange Variation to leverage key strategies to secure victories in these classic matchups.