Anatoly Karpov - Find The Right Plan.pdf ~upd~ -

This is what truly separated Karpov from his peers. When it is your turn, do not just ask, "What is my plan?" Ask, "What does my opponent want to do if I pass my turn?" By systematically eliminating the opponent's active choices, you force them into a passive defense, making your own ultimate victory much easier to achieve. A Classic Blueprint: Karpov vs. Unzicker (Nice, 1974)

Karpov was an absolute virtuoso at playing against the Isolated Queen’s Pawn. His plan against the IQP was standard yet flawlessly executed: blockading the pawn with a minor piece (usually a knight on the d4 or d5 square), trading off minor pieces to reduce the opponent's attacking potential, and eventually winning the weak pawn in the endgame. 2. Total Board Control and Space

Preventing freeing pawn breaks (such as stopping an opponent's ...d5 or ...e5 break). Anticipating piece exchanges that favor the opponent.

If you have a spatial advantage, avoid premature pawn breaks that open up the lines for your opponent. Maintain the tension and improve your piece placement until the breakthrough is completely safe. Finding the Right Training Material