Scandinavian Defense
Black hits the center at once with 1...d5 and brings the queen out early to a5, where it stays safe.
1.e4 d5 2.exd5 Qxd5 3.Nc3 Qa5 4.d4 Nf6 (ECO B01)
Key ideas
- You set up familiar positions from move one.
- The queen on a5 pins the c3 knight.
- Develop the bishop to f5 or g4 and castle quickly.
A trap to know
Don't leave the queen in the center: White will gain time by chasing it with pieces.
Who is it for?
For those who want a simple defense with one clear plan.