Modern Benoni, Taimanov Variation

White combines two energetic decisions. The f-pawn advances to f4 to support a future e-pawn push to e5, and the bishop moves to b5 with check. A check is a direct attack on the king that must be answered. White uses the space advantage to ask concrete questions before completing normal development.

The check may force Black to block, move a piece, or adopt a less convenient setup. The aim is not an immediate material win but to gain time for the center to advance and make Black's activity harder to organize.

That ambition has a cost. The f-pawn moves away from the king's future shelter, and several white pieces remain undeveloped. If the center does not advance in time, Black can strike it or open queenside play. The line demands more precision than the Classical Variation, which develops pieces and secures the king first.