Exchange Slav is variation 3 of 6 in the Slav Defence course, a intermediate opening course for Black (ECO D13). It runs 22 moves and begins 1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. cxd5 cxd5 4. Nc3 Nf6 …. White exchanges on d5 to create a symmetrical position. Black mirrors White's development with ...Nc6, ...Bf5 and ...e6, then contests the c-file. The position is equal if Black stays alert to Bb5 and Qa4 pins. In the lesson every move is explained on a board and then drilled; it is free.
Move by move
1. d4 – White takes the centre.
1... d5 – Black matches.
2. c4 – The Queen's Gambit.
2... c6 – The Slav.
3. cxd5 – The Exchange: White creates a symmetrical structure and hopes the extra tempo counts.
3... cxd5 – Recaptures and keeps a pawn on d5.
4. Nc3 – Puts pressure on d5.
4... Nf6 – Defends d5 and develops.
5. Bf4 – Develops the bishop outside the pawn chain and controls b8 and c7.
5... Nc6 – Develops toward the centre and hits d4.
6. e3 – Supports d4 and opens the f1 bishop.
6... Bf5 – Mirrors White: the bishop develops before ...e6.
7. Nf3 – Develops and covers e5.
7... e6 – Opens the f8 bishop; the structure is now completely symmetrical.
8. Bb5 – Pins the c6 knight; White hopes for Ne5 and Qa4.
8... Nd7 – Prepares ...Rc8 and ...a6, and stops Ne5.
The lesson goes on for 6 more moves, each with its explanation.
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