Rainer Knaak

Traps lurk in every stage of a chess game, but they occur especially often in the opening. In this instructional volume, the two internationally recognised masters of the game cover the traps that can be expected after the double advance of the white d-pawn. For every possible opening after 1.d4 -- including the Queen's Gambit or the King's Indian Defense -- there are explanatory texts detailing the most typical trap motifs. Designed to increase combinative ability and systematically expand opening repertoire, this is an essential guide to setting and avoiding opening traps.

Though they appear to be normal moves, opening traps are deft manoeuvres that almost inevitably lead to a rapid win for the trapper. This handy volume details the various types of traps available during a King's Pawn Game and explains how to use them as well as how to avoid getting caught by them. The Italian, French, Spanish, and Sicilian trips -- among many others -- are explained with helpful texts that detail their typical motifs.