The Caro-Kann defence is a classic chess opening which is a great standard opening the the kings pawn.

Step 1

Black begins to fight for the cetre from the very beginning of the game.

Unlike the scandinavian defence We begin by supporting D5 move, C6 is first. Then D5.

The Classical Variation

1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.Nc3 (or 3.Nd2) In this variation attack the knight with the Bishop, knight should move back to attack, move bishop back.

The Advanced Variation

1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.e5

Main line if white pushes is to bring the bishop next to it on f5.

However the c5 move may be more interesting. if white takes on c5 push e pawn to discovered attack from bishop to c5. If they defend with bishop Knight to the edge to start stacking pressure.

The Exchange Variation

1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.exd5 cxd5

The exchange includes the Panov-Botvinnik Attack which can crush the Caro-Kann. So be careful.

Take, take, standard line, white puts bishop behind the pawn. Black attacks whites pawn with knight to c6. White adds pawn support.

Queen behind the knight.

Bishop pins the white knight.

The Two Knights

1.e4 c6 2.Nf3 d5 3.Nc3

The Fantasy Variation

1.e4 c6 2.d4 d5 3.f3

The Accelerated Panov Attack

1.e4 c6 2.c4

The Kings Indian Attack

1.e4 c6 2.d3