4-4 point low approach low extension, slide, pincer, 3-3

The idea of the original pincer of is to gain influence. There's a forceful way to do so at a, involving a ladder potential, and a more moderate way at b.

These plays are still the main line, though increasingly is played directly at . White plays for ladder aji.

After these moves, Black needs a further play here. If the ladder works Black can play at b (and then will need to capture shortly).

It seems, from pro games, that this is a subtle discussion:

• this variation is played even when the ladder is bad for Black, and Black must play a now;
• even if the ladder is good for Black, Black may anyway play a.

Naturally the evaluation of the position after Black at a must depend on the prospects in a fight if White's cutting stone escapes.

On the left side, black c might be a useful sente move, answered with white d.

leads to the 4-4 Point staircase joseki

The forcing move and next allowing hane at the head of two is recommended by AI such as Leela Zero. After , White can tenuki.

Omitting the exchange - in the mainline, Black proceeds directly with here. removes the ladder potential. After , Black can play a or b.