Queen's Gambit Declined

Black declines the gambit and supports d5 with ...e6, building one of the most solid and classical structures in chess. It is the backbone of many world championship matches and a model of sound positional play.

• Hold the centre solidly with the d5/e6 pawn duo
• Free the position with the ...c5 or ...dxc4 and ...e5 breaks
• Solve the passive light-squared bishop via ...b6 or exchanges
• Prioritise a sound structure and gradual equalisation