Shape Problem 4 / Discussion

Black needs to correct this shape  

Charles Matthews My first comment here is that the shape relationship between and is never really good.

DaveSigaty: I think that we have to add into the mix before we can try to claim that the - relationship is not really good. When the White stone is missing, it is the standard (5-6 times more frequently played than any alternative) choice for closing the corner.

Abstract pattern (1)  

In this case and have a good relationship.

DaveSigaty: With both and on the board the play at does not have a very successful record. While the theoretical relationship may be nice, it is too passive. When jumps to , the corner is still vulnerable. Black will likely want to add anyway. At this point is he better off with the stone on ?

Abstract pattern (2)  

And also in this case and have a good relationship.

So you could say that Black has created himself a shape problem, by taking 50% from each pattern.

In this case:

The 'big bulge'  

I recommend on general grounds this 'big bulge' shape made of two keima.

HolIgor: We have a winner. This is what I meant.

White cannot lean  

A play at a becomes impossible.

Corner aji  

Maybe there are still 3-3 invasion problems at a after . Black could try a play like b to keep the corner.

Playing , however, seems to get Black out into the centre in good shape. So it looks like good style to me.

White trying to connect  

Karl Knechtel: I'm not convinced of that. (5-8 are shown to indicate that a counterattack is futile.)