Nimzo-Indian: Move by Move

Synopsis

Grandmaster John Emms revisits the Nimzo-Indian, his favourite opening for over 30 years. He shares his experience and knowledge, and continually challenges the reader to answer probing questions, thereby encouraging the learning and practising of vital opening skills.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction

This chapter provides an overview of the Nimzo-Indian Defense, including its history, main ideas, and typical plans for both sides.

Chapter 2: The Basics

Explains the basic moves of the Nimzo-Indian Defense, including the main lines and common variations.

Example:
1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. e3 O-O 5. Bd3 d5

Chapter 3: White's Main Weapons

Focuses on the most common strategies for White against the Nimzo-Indian, such as the Queen's Fianchetto Variation, the 4.Qc2 System, and the Sämisch Variation.

Example:
4.Qc2 g6 5.Bg5 h6 6.Bh4

Chapter 4: Black's Counterplay

Explores Black's options to equalize and seize the initiative in the Nimzo-Indian, including the Fianchetto Variation, the Queen's Indian Variation, and the Rubinstein Variation.

Example:
4...d5 5.Bf4 c5 6.dxc5 Bxc5 7.O-O

Chapter 5: Middlegame Themes

Discusses common middlegame themes in the Nimzo-Indian, such as the fight for the center, piece activity, and king safety.

Example:
A typical middlegame position might feature White's bishop on f4 attacking Black's knight on f6, while Black's bishop on b4 pins White's knight on c3 to the queen.

Chapter 6: Endgame Strategies

Provides guidance on endgame strategies in the Nimzo-Indian, including typical pawn structures, piece placement, and king safety.

Example:
A common endgame pattern is when White has the advantage of a central passed pawn, while Black has better piece activity and control of the kingside.

Chapter 7: Master Games

Presents annotated games by grandmasters to illustrate the key ideas and strategies in the Nimzo-Indian Defense.

Example:
Game 4: Fischer-Geller, Candidates Matches 1971 (Sämisch Variation)

Chapter 8: Conclusions

Summarizes the main conclusions from the book, including the strengths and weaknesses of the Nimzo-Indian Defense and tips for playing both sides.