Chess Opening Theory/1. d4/1...d5/2. c4/2...c6/3. Nf3/3...Nf6/4. cxd5

After this move, the tension in the center is relieved, often allowing Black equality. Because of this, this variation often ends in a draw.

Black's only decent move is to complete the exchange of pawns with 4...cxd5. After the exchange, Black will find it difficult to win unless White is overly ambitious.

The most draw-ish line of them all is the symmetrical line. Black keeps copying White and both sides exchange minor pieces: 4...cxd5 5. Nc3 Nc6 6. Bf4 Bf5 7. e3 e6 8. Bd3 Bxd3 9. Qxd3 Bd6 10. Bxd6 Qxd6 11. O-O O-O =. Most players agree to a draw in this or any of the following positions.

1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6 3. Nf3 Nf6 4. cxd5

• Kasparov, Garry, & Keene, Raymond 1989 Batsford chess openings 2. ISBN 0-8050-3409-9.