The big idea

What the Slav Defence is really about.

As solid as the Queen's Gambit Declined, but with a twist: Black supports d5 with ...c6 instead of ...e6, leaving the light-squared bishop free to develop actively to f5 or g4 before locking in the centre. That blend of rock-solid structure and an active bishop has made it a favourite of world champions.

White's plan: Develop the pieces, decide whether to allow ...dxc4 and chase the pawn back with a4 and e3/Bxc4, and use the central space to press for an edge.
Black's plan: Keep d5 supported by ...c6, get the light bishop out to f5 (or g4) before playing ...e6, and complete development comfortably while staying solid.

After 1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6

The Slav supports d5 with ...c6 instead of ...e6 — so the light-squared bishop stays free. Black grabs c4, develops the bishop to f5, and reaches a solid, well-coordinated game.

What does the Slav (...c6) do better than the Queen's Gambit Declined (...e6)?

Answer the question to keep going!