Concept

Pawn structure

You might say: pawn configuration, pawn skeleton

The placement of the pawns considered on its own. Its chains, islands, open and closed files, holes, and weaknesses shape the plans available to both sides.

What it does

Reveals whether the center is open or closed, where weaknesses and targets sit, and which breaks can change the position.

Ask

Which pawn formation is here, what is fixed, and which break or target follows from it?

Typical

Open or closed center; chains; islands; isolated, doubled, and backward pawns; holes; pawn breaks.

Trouble

A lasting target, a restricted piece, or a premature pawn move that creates weaknesses and hands the opponent a plan.

What to look for

1. Pawn chains and islands
2. Open or closed files
3. Holes and weaknesses
4. Isolated, doubled or backward pawns

Catalogue: Named structures

• Carlsbad structure: A recurring pawn formation, best known from the Queen's Gambit Declined Exchange Variation, with rich plans such as the minority attack and the e3-e4 central break. The pawn formation defines it; the Queen's Gambit Declined Exchange Variation is only where it is best known.
• Isolated queen's pawn (IQP, isolani): An isolated pawn on the d-file, unsupported by another pawn; it can buy space and attacking chances while remaining a structural target.
• Maroczy Bind: A formation identified by White pawns on e4 and c4 after Black's c-pawn has traded for White's d-pawn; it restricts Black's freeing breaks. White pawns on e4 and c4 after Black's c-pawn trades for White's d-pawn define it, whatever opening led there.
• Hanging pawns: Two adjacent pawns without pawn support from other files; they can be weak targets or a mobile source of space and breaks.

Connections

• Controls: Plan
• Raises: Space

Sources

1. Chess.com, Pawn Structure in chess, What Are Pawn Structures?Pawn structure literally refers to the pawn placement or pawn configuration in a position, disregarding all other pieces.
2. Chess.com, Pawn Structure in chess, Why Are Pawn Structures Important?Pawn structures can also help us determine concrete plans or strategic goals.

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