Comment: does not work if
is present.
Charles Matthews Well, the idea that this second way to capture is better is certainly debatable. The basic principle choose the firmer capture does suggest that the first way shown, reducing White to two liberties, should be the default. Dieter agrees.
Bill: I would have thought that the solid connection was the firmer capture. And, in general, better. when it works. Here, though, you have the question of White's kikashi, both on top and, more particularly, to the left. I still think that the solid connection is better on the otherwise empty board, but it's not an easy question. (I think that the difficulty level is rather above that of Beginner.)
White's follow-up
If it's a question of comparing forcing moves left after the capture, White has these in the second case.
Bill: Isn't
at
normal? And better?
... Not to mention the possibility of escape at 4 at some later point.
JoelR: I'm unclear; is the corner there or not? If so, then compare to BeginnerExercise167, as below. If not, then how much can White flail by playing at a?
Bill: Both before and after reading this page, I confess I have no idea what cathedral is.
unkx80: I am guilty of producing such a lousy original diagram, but I did not invent any name, I simply put it as "capturing on the third line". The pattern applies anywhere along the edge, and any White stones at a, b or c does not affect the outcome of the capture.
Dieter: ... and I'll take responsibility for the chapel term but didn't extend it to cathedral. Now, will the real culprit rise please ? (You'll see it's the butler).