Because of the sheer volume of variations, possible transpositions, and ever-changing theory, chess openings can be overwhelming - even intimidating. This book is an introduction to understanding and playing chess openings.

This book covers:

• Opening principles (page 13)
• Pawn structures (page 17)
• Gambit play (page 24)
• Opening traps (page 26)
• How do I decide which openings to choose (page 30)
• How to build an opening repertoire (page 32)
• Introduction to opening theory (page 34)
• The Open Games: 1.e4 e5, such as the Italian, Evans Gambit, King's Gambit, Scotch Game (page 39)
• The Semi-Open Game, such as the Sicilian Defence, the French Defence (page 84)
• The Closed Games, such as the Queen's Gambit (page 141)
• The Semi-Closed Games, such as the King's Indian, Nimzo-Indian (page 167)
• Flank Openings, such as the English Opening, 1.b3 (page 207)
• Where do I go from here (page 231)
• And much, much more

The author, Danish Master Carsten Hansen, stresses opening play based on comprehending opening principles as well as useful, fundamental knowledge. With an overview of all the most important opening variations, examples of good and bad opening play, opening traps and problems to solve, chess openings, and its major principles are covered thoroughly.

Many games are lost as a result of a player's poor grasp of even the most basic principles of opening play. This book will help you enhance your understanding and give you guidelines on how to best study and play chess openings, reaching good, playable middlegame positions