The big idea

What the French Defence is really about.

Solid and combative. Black answers 1.e4 with 1...e6, preparing to challenge the centre with ...d5 behind a sturdy pawn wall. The only initial drawback is the light-squared bishop, which is hemmed in by the ...e6 pawn, but the resulting structure is famously tough and resilient.

White's plan: Build and defend a broad pawn centre, gain kingside space, and attack on the wing where the cramped Black position is most vulnerable, often targeting the kingside while Black is slow to develop.
Black's plan: Accept a slightly cramped position in return for a rock-solid structure, then chip away at White's centre with the ...c5 break (and sometimes ...f6), and find good homes for the pieces — especially the problem bishop.

After 1.e4 e6

French Advance: White gains space with the c3–d4–e5 pawn chain; Black strikes at its base with ...c5 and piles up on d4 (...Qb6, ...Nc6) while developing the queenside.

White has a pawn chain (e5–d4). Where does Black strike at it?

Answer the question to keep going!