White typically aims for "Plan A": playing c3 and d4 to build a powerful central pawn duo.

The guide highlights that "knowledge of tactics is the foundation of positional play". For beginners, the Italian Game offers frequent opportunities to use:

The light-squared bishop is placed on c4 to eye the "tender" f7 point, which is only defended by Black’s king and is often the site of early tactical breakthroughs.

Exeter warns against the (the "very quiet game"), which occurs if both sides play too cautiously (e.g., 4. d3 d6). This leads to solid but blocked positions where it is difficult for beginners to find attacking chances. To avoid this, Exeter recommends more aggressive lines like:

Black often looks to strike back in the center with the move ...d5 to neutralize White’s pressure. Summary of Best Practices

Using pawns to dislodge enemy pieces, such as pushing e5 to attack a knight on f6.

Sacrificing a pawn with 4. b4 to gain rapid development and disrupt Black's coordination. Tactical Ideas for Beginners