Caro-Kann Defense: Exchange Variation
White exchanges the e-pawn for Black's d-pawn. After Black recaptures with the c-pawn, compare the open e-file for White and open c-file for Black; development matters more than the peaceful-looking exchange.
Your plan as White
Keep your central space useful: develop before extending the pawn chain. Compare advancing e5, exchanging on d5, and defending e4 with a knight.
The opponent’s plan
Challenge e4 with ...d5. In closed centers, consider freeing the light-squared bishop before ...e6; use ...c5 to question White's center when prepared.
Watch out: Do not treat every variation alike: the Advance keeps the center closed, while the Panov can leave an isolated d-pawn and active piece play.
This variation: your plan
After exd5 cxd5, develop the bishops and knights around the central structure. The e-file can become useful; coordinate your pieces before advancing flank pawns.
Opening game…
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Name, background and sources
Horatio Caro and Marcus Kann analyzed this defense in the 1880s. Their names identify the opening; its development involved many players.
Read the opening background on Chess.com ↗Lichess opening names and reference lines (CC0) · Caro–Kann background
ChessSum provides original explanatory notes. Related lines are labeled separately. Reference lines illustrate ideas; they are not a claim that every other legal move is wrong.
Watch how the center and piece development change. Each arrow previews the next move.