The Caro-Kann :exchange

As white, I was not good at playing Caro-Kann Defence. I found that maybe the classic variation is not fit me. So I decided to learn something different. Then I found that the exchange variation seems strong. And here is a line.

To play c3 to build a strong pawn chain seems a good idea and white has a little advantage.

But I am not familiar with exchange variation. What should white do next? Is exchange variation a good choice? I want some advice about this opening, thank you.

There are many ways to continue, but the common approach is for White to play for kingside expansion, after castling (planting a piece on the e5-outpost, then pushing f2-f4-f5).

Black, meanwhile, plays for a minority attack on the queenside.

I'd say that's a fine system for White to play. Though you also should look at 6...g6 for Black, as well, as it's nearly as common as 6...Bg4.

why not panov attack. It will lead the position to more complicate and far more difficult to win. I am a caro kann player, for me the most critical line is the advanced variation. But it is really easy to play if you play just bishop to d3.

As you are playing white balancing the position is not the best idea. You want to use the black's idea. So usually should make the position as hard as you can.

The reason that nowadays the popular mainline is the advanced variation is simple. Because it can be strong and dynamic.  You can play super aggressive like h4, g4, you can also be positional and play the like the short variation. There will be a lot of moves, and for most normal players they are not preparing some basic ideas. 算了大佬太强了我懂个屁，妈的写了半天操

Yes. It might be not as strong as the main lines, but is relatively easy to play. Carlsen uses it as a Blitz opening.

Here is a nice model game (starting at 49:00): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRAJ5mdLP5A&list=PLfYl06Vm3lXnEEMIaWld8P-pI0FJmHQQe&index=8&t=4062s