Quick answer
The Scandinavian Defense starts 1.e4 d5. Black challenges e4 immediately; after 2.exd5 Qxd5 3.Nc3 the queen moves again, usually to a5 or d6. It's easy to learn because White's first moves are very predictable.
- Moves
- 1.e4 d5
- Best for
- Beginners who want one simple system against 1.e4
- Style
- Direct and solid
- Main idea
- Remove White's e-pawn at once, then develop quickly with ...Nf6, ...c6 and ...Bf5
The main line, move by move
The ...Qa5 line is the classic setup. Step through it, then practice Black's moves.
Why play the Scandinavian?
There's very little theory: White can't avoid it after 1.e4, and Black's setup is almost the same in every game. The structure (pawns on c6 and e6) is like a Caro-Kann, but Black has already traded off White's e-pawn.
Black's plan
- Get the c8 bishop out to f5 or g4 before ...e6.
- Play ...c6 to give the queen a safe retreat.
- Castle and play for ...c5 or ...e5 later.
The modern ...Qd6 line
Many players now retreat the queen to d6. It's flexible and avoids some of White's tricks against the queen on a5.
Common beginner mistakes in the Scandinavian
- Moving the queen again and again. One retreat is fine; after that, develop other pieces.
- Forgetting ...c6. Without it, the queen on a5 can get trapped after b4 or Nd5 tricks.
- Locking in the bishop by playing ...e6 before ...Bf5 or ...Bg4.
Frequently asked questions
Isn't it bad to bring the queen out early?
Usually, yes. In the Scandinavian, Black loses one tempo, but in return White's e-pawn is gone and Black gets a solid, easy position.
Is the Scandinavian Defense good for beginners?
It's one of the best. You learn one setup and can play it in almost every game against 1.e4.