Quick answer
The Queen's Gambit starts 1.d4 d5 2.c4. White offers the c-pawn to pull Black's d-pawn away from the center. It isn't a real gambit, because after 2...dxc4 White can usually win the pawn back. Black's main replies are 2...e6 (Declined), 2...c6 (the Slav) and 2...dxc4 (Accepted).
- Moves
- 1.d4 d5 2.c4
- Best for
- Players who like control and steady pressure
- Style
- Positional and solid
- Main idea
- Undermine Black's d5 pawn and take over the center
The main line, move by move
The most common reply is 2...e6, the Queen's Gambit Declined. Here is the classical setup. Step through it, then practice White's moves.
Why it's called a gambit
2.c4 offers a pawn, but if Black takes with 2...dxc4, White can usually win it back with e3 and Bxc4. Trying to hold on to the extra pawn with ...b5 tends to weaken Black's queenside.
White's plan
- Keep pressure on d5 with the c-pawn, knight and bishop.
- Use the c-file for the rooks.
- Choose between a minority attack on the queenside (b4–b5) and central play with e4.
If Black accepts: 2...dxc4
In the Queen's Gambit Accepted, Black takes the pawn and gives up the center for a while. White simply develops and wins it back.
Common beginner mistakes in the Queen's Gambit
- Falling for the Elephant Trap. In the Declined, after ...Nbd7, cxd5 exd5 Nxd5?? loses a piece. See the Queen's Gambit Declined lesson.
- Rushing to win back the pawn with an early queen move after 2...dxc4. Develop first; the pawn won't run away.
- Forgetting the c1 bishop. Develop it before e3 locks it in, or plan for it to go to b2.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Queen's Gambit really a gambit?
Only in name. White can almost always win the pawn back, so it isn't a true sacrifice.
Should I play the Queen's Gambit or the London System?
The London is easier to learn because you use one setup against everything. The Queen's Gambit is more ambitious and teaches you more about central play.