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

= Slav Defence Exchange Variation =

3. 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 3...cxd5, though Nf6!? might be interesting. However, 3...Qxd5?! Nc3 gains a lot of tempi on the queen and should be avoided. After the exchange, black will find it difficult to win unless white is overly ambitious.

Theory table
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'''1. d4 d5 2. c4 c6'''