Queen's Gambit Declined: Semi-Tarrasch Defense (D41)

The Semi-Tarrasch Defense is a variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined, catalogued as ECO D41. The line runs 1. c4 c5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nc3 Nc6 4. g3 d5 5. d4 e6, reaching the position shown below after 10 half-moves.

Both sides have pawns in the centre (White on d4, Black on d5), and two pawn captures are available, so the structure is still fluid. Development is level at two minor pieces each. It is White to move after five moves.

On the Queen's Gambit Declined generally: A solid and respected response to the Queen's Gambit. Black maintains a strong central presence.

You can play through this variation move by move in your browser — Learn mode walks the line with an explanation at each step, and Drill mode replays it from memory so you find out whether you actually know it. No account is required.

Queen's Gambit Declined: Semi-Tarrasch Defense — position after e6 h1g2f3e4d5c6b7a8
Position after 1. c4 c5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nc3 Nc6 4. g3 d5 5. d4 e6

Move order

#WhiteBlack
1c4c5
2Nf3Nf6
3Nc3Nc6
4g3d5
5d4e6

ECO: D41

Stockfish: +0.36 at depth 18

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Position characteristics

Related Queen's Gambit Declined lines

Frequently asked questions

What are the moves of the Semi-Tarrasch Defense?

The Semi-Tarrasch Defense goes 1. c4 c5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nc3 Nc6 4. g3 d5 5. d4 e6. It is a variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined and is catalogued as ECO D41.

What is the ECO code for the Semi-Tarrasch Defense?

The Semi-Tarrasch Defense is ECO D41. ECO codes group openings by their move order, so nearby codes cover closely related lines of the Queen's Gambit Declined.

Is the Semi-Tarrasch Defense good for Black?

Stockfish evaluates the position after 1. c4 c5 2. Nf3 Nf6 3. Nc3 Nc6 4. g3 d5 5. d4 e6 at +0.36 at depth 18, which is a slight pull for White, within normal opening margins. Engine evaluation is only a starting point — at club level the practical value of a line is mostly about whether you know its plans better than your opponent does.

What kind of position does the Semi-Tarrasch Defense lead to?

Both sides have pawns in the centre (White on d4, Black on d5), and two pawn captures are available, so the structure is still fluid. Development is level at two minor pieces each. It is White to move.