Pawn Structure
Open vs Closed Position
Open position are games where the pawn structure is not locking up the middle. Subsequently, there are lots of wide open spaces for pieces to move.
Closed positions are games where the pawns are blocking the center and subsequently the mobility of other pieces.
Pawn Chains
Pawn chains: when a group of pawns are in a diagonal protecting each other.
This is beneficial because the pawns are much harder to attack for your opponent, and easier to defend for you.
The pawn at the end of the pawn chain is most vulnerable but harder to be attacked.
When you start playing, you want to avoid getting “isolated” pawns, or pawns that do not have adjacent pawns that can defend each other. Isolated pawns are weaker because no other pawns can defend them. At the same time, if your opponent has isolated pawns, they are easier targets!
Open vs Closed Position
Closed Position
Closed Position
Open Position
Open Position
Tips:
Notice the difference in the mobility of the bishops when comparing the open position and the closed position.
You want to avoid blocking your bishops with your pawns on the same color square if possible!
Notice the difference in mobility of the bishops vs the knights (see far right diagram). The bishop can move much quicker in an open position.
Pawn Chain
Pawns in a pawn chain. The highlighted pawns are in the back of the chain and are the weakest.
An isolated pawn that does not have another pawn that can defend it.