London System
Build a sound center with d4, develop the bishop before e3, and adapt when Black challenges the center.
Study this opening
A classical setup
Develop the bishop before e3 closes its diagonal. Against ...Bd6, retreating to g3 preserves it. Black’s ...c5 means the center needs attention even when the setup looks familiar.
Supporting the center
The c3 pawn supports d4 while the b1 knight develops to d2. White should finish development before launching a kingside attack.
Against a kingside fianchetto
Black’s bishop influences the long diagonal. Castling and central control take priority over mechanically copying a queenside pawn formation.
Answering an early bishop challenge
Be2 offers to remove the pin on the knight. Develop and secure the king while watching the pressure on d4.
Choosing a bishop exchange
Exchanging on d6 gives up the active bishop but removes Black’s corresponding bishop. This is a structural choice, not a reason to declare either side better.