Pole connection

Pole connection  

A pole connection () is a useful form of solid connection resulting in a semi-freestanding straight line of three, or possibly more, stones.

Pole connection  

The pole connection () would usually occur in practice in response to a move such as the hane of . It exerts more influence toward the top than alternatives such as the extension of a.

Pole connection  

Correct shape for Black here is the pole connection of .

Vulgar  

This is vulgar.

Joseki  

In this 1-space low pincer joseki, is a pole connection. The natural move for most players would be at a, and this too is a joseki, emphasizing the left side. The pole connection has the advantage of allowing the link-up at , however, forcing white to choose between reducing Black's influence at or separating at b. If White chooses b, Black will hane at and treat his marked stone lightly, trading the corner territory for a wall facing the left side.