The Caro-Kann Defense

In the Exchange Variation of the Caro-Kann (1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. exd5 cxd5), Black allows White to exchange the central pawns to relieve some of the pressure on d5. This leads to an isolated queen's pawn position where Black has an extra central pawn but White has more space and piece activity. White aims to exploit their advantage in development and pressure Black's d-pawn while Black tries to complete development and fight for control of the c-file. The Exchange Caro-Kann often leads to tactical battles where both sides have chances to attack.