Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Taimanov Variation

The opening move d4 is a crucial one for white as it controls the center of the board and opens up lines for the queen and bishop. This move also creates potential threats towards black's knight on f6 and limits the mobility of black's pawn on e6. By playing d4, white hopes to take control of the game early on and set the tempo for the rest of the match. It's a move that requires careful consideration, as it can quickly turn in favor of the opponent if not executed correctly.

Black's move Nf6 is a common response to white's opening move d4. By developing their knight, Black stakes a claim in the center of the board and prepares to potentially control the e4 square. The knight also attacks the pawn on d4, creating immediate pressure on white's position. Additionally, Nf6 gives Black flexibility in their opening strategy as it sets up the option to play either the Indian or Queen's Gambit defenses, depending on white's subsequent moves. In sum, Nf6 is a versatile and solid move that allows Black to develop their pieces and prepare for any challenges from white.

By playing c4, White sets out to further control the center of the board and continue their development. The move opens up lines for both the queen and bishop and puts immediate pressure on Black's knight on f6. c4 also prepares for the possibility of a future pawn push to d5, further solidifying White's control of the center. By taking control of both the d4 and c4 squares, White aims to restrict Black's pieces and limit their options for developing a counterattack. In sum, c4 is a strong move that sets the tone for White's opening strategy and puts pressure on Black to respond effectively.

In the Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Taimanov Variation, Black's move e6 serves several purposes. Firstly, it supports the knight on f6, which can come under pressure from white's pawn on c4. Secondly, e6 prepares for the development of the bishop on the queenside, which can be accomplished via the b4-square. The move also sets up the potential for a pawn push to d5 in the future, which can help Black to gain additional space in the center of the board. In sum, e6 is a solid move that reinforces Black's position and sets the stage for further development in the opening.

White's move Nc3 in response to 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 continues the development of their pieces and strengthens their control over the center of the board. The move also prepares for the possibility of playing d5, which can further increase White's space advantage. By placing the knight on c3, White also puts pressure on Black's pawn structure and potentially forces Black's bishop to retreat or get exchanged. Furthermore, the knight on c3 screens the d1-square, making it easier for White to castle. In sum, Nc3 is a common and solid move that supports White's overall opening strategy.

Black's move Bb4 continues their development and creates immediate pressure on White's position. By attacking the knight on c3, Black aims to disrupt White's control over the center of the board and potentially force a pawn or piece exchange. Additionally, Bb4 supports Black's overall strategy of controlling the dark squares on the board, which is a common theme in many Indian Defense variations. The bishop also gives Black greater mobility and flexibility in their position, as it can potentially retreat to a5 or d6, or even be exchanged for White's knight on c3 to further disrupt their pawn structure. In sum, Bb4 is an effective move that puts White on the defensive and gives Black greater control over the early stages of the game.

In the Nimzo-Indian Defense: Normal Variation, Taimanov Variation, White's move e3 is an important defensive move that seeks to consolidate their position and prepare for future moves. The move supports White's pawn structure and closes the diagonal between Black's bishop and White's king, reducing the possibility of a future pin. Furthermore, e3 prepares for the development of White's light-square bishop to d3, which supports the pawn on c4 and puts additional pressure on Black's knight on f6. Additionally, e3 provides an escape square for White's king in the event of a future attack. In sum, e3 is a solid move that strengthens White's position while also putting Black under pressure to find an effective response.

Black's move Nc6 is a key part of their development and serves multiple purposes. Firstly, the knight puts pressure on White's pawn on d4, potentially forcing an exchange or creating weaknesses in White's pawn structure. Secondly, Nc6 also prepares for the development of Black's light-square bishop via the b7-square. Additionally, the knight on c6 supports Black's control of central squares and prepares for a future pawn push to d5, which can help to lock down the center of the board. In sum, Nc6 is a strong move that complements Black's overall strategy and helps to create a solid foundation for their position.