Please explain this technique or the meaning behind this move.
Could you please explain the reasoning behind moves 5 and 7?
The idea behind move 5 — when, in fact, White gives up their stone — is that they force Black to respond with mandatory moves… but still.
And then, with move 7, they give up another stone for atari.
Yes, I see that they keep the tempo and all that,
but I don’t understand why this is the best move in this situation.
Well first is why black 2 instead of 3
KataGo’s opening book shows more of the sequence here, to show exactly what the AI is thinking:
In human terms, these moves are good (even if the stones are captured) because they sever and remove liberties from key black groups.
Exchanging White 5 for Black 6 leaves the lower black group with four liberties. This situation gives White more tactical options, like b5 plus c3 or the nose tesuji at d3.
White 7 leaves the upper black group with four liberties as well. This situation makes the follow-up (White 9 at g7) more threatening.
It’s interesting as here on a 9x9 I can much more understand black choice at 2 (considering we are on the upper edge already.)
Edit: I haven’t noticed we were on a 9x9 by the OP. Sorry for that.
"Thanks! I’ll make sure to study it — AI moves are honestly super fun to learn from.
Is there a name for the B5 + C3 technique?
Not that I know of. Individually, it’s a descent plus a short extension. Some would say the first move isn’t a true descent because it’s touching an opposing stone. Either way, the tactic is a good one to know in 9x9.
Mark5000, it’s a great honor for me to receive your comment. Thank you for your work and patience — it’s priceless for us, the students on the path of Go
