Starting Position
The Queen's Gambit starts after the moves 1.d4 d5 2.c4. White's second move attacks the d5-pawn, increasing control over the center. If Black decides to take the pawn with 2...dxc4, White will have successfully deflected one of Black's central pawns to the board's wing.

Queen's Gambit
The starting position of the Queen's Gambit.
Despite its name, the Queen's Gambit doesn't quite gambit a pawn since Black can't really hang on to the extra pawn safely.

Pros
Fights to control the center
It puts immediate pressure on Black
Gains space
Cons
White may have to spend time getting the pawn back
Less attacking chances against the black king
Black may aim to counterattack d4
Variations
Black can meet the Queen's Gambit by capturing the white c4-pawn (Queen's Gambit Accepted) or trying to hold on to their d5-pawn (Queen's Gambit Declined and Slav Defense). Numerous variations branch out from each of those options.

How To Play Against The Queen's Gambit
The Queen's Gambit is an exceptional opening for White, and the well-prepared player should get more than satisfying results with it. Still, Black can find some counterplay and reach balanced positions in many lines even if White plays with precision. Below are three variations that should help you face the Queen's Gambit.

Queen's Gambit Accepted
Even though the Queen's Gambit Accepted has a reputation of sometimes leading to stale positions, this is one of the best-scoring variations for Black. Of the more than 23,000 games in our masters' database, Black wins 25%, draws 38%, and loses 38%.

1.d4 d5 2.c4 dxc4

Queen's Gambit Accepted
The Queen's Gambit Accepted scores well for Black.
Slav Defense
If you'd rather decline the gambit, the Slav Defense is a good option. Despite its heavy theory, this defense will give you a solid position even if you learn just the basics of it. Black wins 21% of games with the Slav, draws 39%, and loses 40%.

1.d4 d5 2.c4 c6

Queen's Gambit.
The Slav is a solid way of playing against the Queen's Gambit.

Albin Countergambit
If you prefer sharper positions, the Albin Countergambit might be a good choice for you. Black responds to White's pawn offer with 2...e5, offering a gambit themselves. This move can lead to wild positions and hidden traps, so White must know how to respond accurately.

You should note that masters don't typically go for this line since it's too risky. With accurate play, White should have no problem building a considerable advantage. Still, the Albin Countergambit is one of the best-scoring lines among non-professional players.