Paulsen Sicilian (or Taimanov Sicilian) is a variation of the Sicilian Defense, beginning with the moves 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 e6 3. d4 cxd4 4. Nxd4 Nc6. Unlike many other Sicilian lines, black leaves an open diagonal for the dark-squared bishop to develop on. Black also places the queen on the semi-open c-file and controls the e5-square.
This variation combines a sparkling theoretical reputation and a flawless structure with plenty of counter-attacking potential. Unlike ultra-sharp variations that demand memorizing long "computer" lines, strategic understanding can go a long way in the Paulsen Sicilian.
The course consists of 8 sections, each of them contains a variation and 2 Model Games illustrating typical middlegame plans. Moreover, I give a full overview of options against each move and explain my choices, sometimes offering more than one solution, so you can choose depending on your playing style.