## Chess openings: What is the Catalan Opening?

Looking for a new opening to learn? Discover the Catalan Opening!

Learning openings requires understanding chess notation, the system for naming pieces and moves. [Get a refresher on chess notation here](https://blog.duolingo.com/chess-notation/)!

## Catalan Opening: 3 quick facts

- The Catalan derives its name from the [Catalonia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Catalonia?ref=blog.duolingo.com) region of Spain and is a [grandmaster](https://blog.duolingo.com/how-to-become-a-chess-grandmaster/) favorite, frequently seen in top-level tournaments and world championship matches.
- It’s a very [solid](https://blog.duolingo.com/popular-chess-openings/#solid), [positional](https://blog.duolingo.com/popular-chess-openings/#positional), and technical opening that can be reached by various move orders. It often leads to small advantages that accumulate over time.
- This opening is usually better suited to more advanced players, since it often requires subtle play and [endgame](https://blog.duolingo.com/popular-chess-openings/#what-comes-after-the-opening) knowledge rather than [sharp](https://blog.duolingo.com/popular-chess-openings/#sharp) [tactics](https://blog.duolingo.com/popular-chess-openings/#tactical) and wild attacks.

## Catalan Opening: the moves

Here are the moves for the Catalan Opening:

1. d4 Nf6

2. c4 e6

3. g3

## A strong positional choice

Learn this top-level setup if you want to up your game!

If you’re looking for more openings, check out [our guide featuring over 30 options](https://blog.duolingo.com/popular-chess-openings/) for every skill level!