Quote:
Originally Posted by Mariogs37
when you guys look at openings, I typically just run through the main line, but my opponents often deviate really early on and I'm like...uhhh I guess I'm still playing the French Defense?
Is there a way to figure out optimal replies to these deviations? Like, for some openings, the main line is the main line because it's white or black's best response...so in theory, if your opponent deviates you should be able to take advantage, right?
Some moves are not opening theory because they are downright bad. They either blunder material or give up control of key squares, etc. Let's skip over those moves and assume we know how to take advantage of such an egregious error.
Main lines are typically thought to be the most critically testing of a particular opening. But in nearly every opening, there are multiple playable moves in almost any position. The moves might be neglected by GMs because, for example, white will end up with an equal position instead of a slight advantage. But at amateur levels of play, the non-mainline move works fine. This is why people recommend not trying to just memorize opening theory but instead learn the ideas behind your openings, as well as just learn chess better in general to outplay the opponent in an equal position you haven't played before.
Something I used to do a lot and still do from time to time is try too hard to punish an opponent's move that isn't main line. I'd caution against doing this. Often times their move is playable and you risk spending too much time or pressing too hard trying to refute their idea, when in fact it could very well be sound, just not optimal. Of course, it goes without saying that if they are hanging material or ignoring basic opening principles (moving the queen repeatedly, not castling, etc), then by all means try to blow them off the board. But if you can't find a fairly obvious win or way to take advantage, just play good, sound chess as best you can and try to outplay them in the middle game. In a position like that you can be confident that your position is fine and focus on playing good chess from there.
As for concrete help, my thought process when confronted with a move I know is not main line goes something like this.
1) What was the correct move? What was the idea behind the correct move?
2) What is the point of this move? What does it threaten? What's the idea?
3) What are the differences in the position between the main line move and the move played?
4) Can I immediately take advantage of that difference, knowing what I know about what each side should be aiming for?
5) If I can't find a concrete refutation or clear way to take an advantage, I'll just play the best I can and then try to learn a little more about the position after the game. Just try to get a little better, game by game.