PIRC DEFENCE · SIX LESSONS FOR BLACK
Invite the centre.
Then challenge it.
Build the kingside fianchetto, recognise White’s attacking setup and strike with …e5 or …c5 before White’s space becomes comfortable. Read the six lessons in order or choose the system you need.
← All free lessonsBuild the Pirc
with purpose
Understand the Pirc bargain, the job of every piece and why development must lead to a central challenge.
Begin the course → LESSON 2 · CENTRAL COUNTERPLAYChoose …e5
or …c5
Compare Black’s two main pawn breaks, calculate White’s replies and improve the piece that makes the break work.
Read lesson 2 → LESSON 3 · 4.f4Meet the
Austrian Attack
Challenge White’s huge centre before e5 and the kingside attack arrive.
Read lesson 3 → LESSON 4 · Be3 AND Qd2Meet the
150 Attack
Spot Bh6, opposite-side castling and pawn storms while creating counterplay in the centre and on the queenside.
Read lesson 4 → LESSON 5 · POSITIONAL SYSTEMSClassical &
Fianchetto setups
Handle quieter development without drifting into passivity, then choose a break that fits the position.
Read lesson 5 → LESSON 6 · COMPLETE YOUR MAPSidelines &
practical defence
Meet early deviations, defend accurately and use a repeatable routine in unfamiliar positions.
Finish the course →Your practical Pirc map
- White builds quietly: finish development and choose …e5 or …c5.
- White plays f4: challenge the centre before the Austrian Attack is fully prepared.
- White plays Be3 and Qd2: watch Bh6, f3, queenside castling and h4–h5.
- White fianchettoes: play patiently, but do not surrender the centre permanently.
- White avoids Nc3: identify whether you are still in a Pirc structure before using memorised moves.