Queen's Pawn Opening

1.d4 The queen's pawn opening - 1.d4 - puts a pawn in the center, controlling the important e5-square, and opens the line for the Bc1. Compared to 1.e4, the queen's pawn opening is more suited towards long-term pressure and slower, more positional methods; although of course a sharp attack is also possible.

Pros: Gains space in the center with a pawn which cannot easily be challenged More long-term pressure Slower, more strategic buildup than 1.e4

Cons: Less chances of a direct attack Slower kingside development