Bogo-Indian Defence
E11Black1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nf3 Bb4+
E11 · 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e6 3.Nf3 Bb4+
The idea
A flexible, low-theory cousin of the Nimzo-Indian. With the check 3...Bb4+ Black eases development and sidesteps the heaviest opening preparation. The bishop is usually traded or retreated, and Black settles into a sound, comfortable position without committing to anything sharp.
Your plan (Black)
Trade or retreat the b4-bishop to finish development smoothly, keep the position solid and flexible, and aim for the freeing ...d6/...e5 or ...d5 breaks once the pieces are out.
Heading into the middlegame
The Bogo is a low-theory cousin of the Nimzo: the check ...Bb4+ eases development and dodges sharp preparation. After White blocks (Bd2 or Nbd2), trade or back up the bishop, then aim for the classic ...d6 and ...e5 freeing break (sometimes ...d5 instead), with ...Qe7 and ...Nc6 supporting it. You're not refuting anything — develop smoothly, keep the position sound and flexible, and equalise comfortably while White's extra space stays harmless.
Lines
0/2 masteredAfter White blocks with the bishop, you back up with ...Qe7 and ...Nc6, trade off cleanly on d2, and head for a smooth ...e5 break.
White blocks with the knight to keep the bishop pair; you castle, trade on d2 anyway, and settle into a solid ...d6 and ...e5 setup.