A gambit is an opening in which one side gives up a pawn, sometimes more, to gain faster development, open lines or a stronger centre.
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A gambit trades material for time. The side that gave the pawn must use its lead before the opponent finishes developing; if nothing comes of it, the game goes on a pawn down.
How to do it
- 1Know what the pawn bought: time, an open file or the centre.
- 2Use the lead quickly with active moves, before the opponent catches up.
- 3When defending, develop first, and give the pawn back if that frees your position.
For your level
A gambit gives a pawn for speed. If you accept one, finish developing before grabbing more, and give the pawn back if that keeps you safe.
Check you have it
Question 1 of 1
On which file does Black have two pawns, one behind the other?
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Common mistakes
- Grabbing more pawns as the defender while your pieces are still at home.
- Playing a gambit and then making quiet moves, so the lead fades for nothing.
Questions
- Are gambits sound?
- Some are and some are not. The Queen's Gambit is a main line at every level; other gambits give the defender a clear advantage with correct play. Learn the ideas of any gambit you play.