Traps, Tricks & Mistakes: Trap Illusion

In this series, we have seen traps in different openings. When studying openings, it’s a good practice to be aware of traps hidden in their variations. As I mentioned in some posts, it’s possible to find similar patterns in variations from completely different openings. In other cases, altering the right order of moves drives the player to fall into an unexpected pitfall.

Another origin of problems is when even identifying a trap motif, the player is unable to properly assess the consequences and takes the wrong decision.

In a previous post, I showed how a GM fell victim into a trap playing the Scandinavian Defense. In today’s post, the same motif seems to be suitable after apparently the same mover order. Nevertheless, a small but significant difference makes the trap inappropriate.

It’s important to pay attention to small details. Trying to play moves mechanically is a bad practice because like in today’s example, the position of other pieces modifies the final result.

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