Queen's Gambit Declined: Three Knights Variation

In the Queen's Gambit Declined: Three Knights Variation, the move d4 is crucial for White as it allows for the central control of the board. By pushing the pawn to d4, White is establishing a strong pawn presence in the center of the board which creates space for the development of their pieces. Additionally, this move places pressure on Black's knight which is currently defending the e5 square. In sum, d4 is a strategic move that sets the tone for White's opening plan and puts pressure on Black early on.

Black's move Nf6 in response to 1. d4 is a very popular choice as it allows for the development of their knight to a central square while putting pressure on White's pawn in the center of the board. By playing Nf6, Black is also preparing to control the e4 square, which can be important for the control of the center. Moreover, this move prepares Black for the future development of their other pieces. In sum, Nf6 is a solid and flexible move for Black that sets the stage for the coming moves.

White's move c4 in response to 1. d4 Nf6 is a common choice as it allows for the control of the d5 square and supports White's central pawn, d4. This move also opens up a line for the queen's bishop, which can be developed to put pressure on Black's position. By playing c4, White is also preparing to develop their knight to c3, which can be used to further control the center. In sum, c4 is a solid move for White that brings them closer to developing their pieces and controlling the board.

In the Queen's Gambit Declined: Three Knights Variation, Black's move e6 is a common choice as it supports the pawn on d5 and prepares for the development of the bishop. This move also prepares for the possibility of playing dxc4, which would open the c-file for Black's queen. By playing e6, Black is also preventing White's pawn on c4 from advancing to c5, which could be an annoyance for Black. In sum, e6 is a solid and flexible move that sets the stage for the development of Black's pieces.

White's move Nf3 in response to 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 is a common choice as it supports the pawn on d4 and prepares to castle kingside. This move also prepares for the development of the knight to c3, which can further control the center. By playing Nf3, White is also preparing for the possibility of playing e4, which would further expand their control of the center. Moreover, this move allows White to potentially double their pawns on the e-file if Black captures on d4. In sum, Nf3 is a flexible and strategic move that brings White closer to the development of their pieces.

Black's move d5 in response to 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 is a natural choice as it allows for the development of Black's dark-squared bishop and asserts their control over the center. This move also supports the knight on f6 and prepares for the possibility of capturing White's pawn on d4. By playing d5, Black is challenging White's control of the center and preventing White from further expanding with e4. In sum, d5 is a solid move that aims to create counterplay while developing Black's pieces.

In the Queen's Gambit Declined: Three Knights Variation, White's move Nc3 in response to 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nf3 d5 is a natural choice as it develops the knight and controls the important e4 square. This move also prepares for the recapture on d5, which can be important for the capture of the pawn without compromising White's pawn structure. By playing Nc3, White is also preparing to castle kingside and put their king in safety. Moreover, this move sets the stage for the future development of White's queen's bishop. In sum, Nc3 is a solid and strategic move for White that brings them closer to the development of their pieces and control of the board.