If you do not know opening theory in its most intimate details, then you must rely on a sound understanding of chess. But sometimes, that is not enough, because opening traps lurk everywhere, relying on the unwary making “normal” moves – developing a piece, making a capture, setting or parrying a threat. But after that the reply is mainly an unusual and therefore an unexpected one – a sacrifi ce, a piece moves to an unusual square or an expected recapture is omitted in favour of another, better move. In this work, the authors have a twofold aim in view; if you wish, you can master the traps within the area of your own openings. But you can also systematically attempt to extend your opening repertoire in order to set some traps yourself.