In chess, "pawn structure" refers to the arrangement of pawns on the board. It plays a crucial role in determining the strengths and weaknesses of a player's position. A solid pawn structure can provide strong defense and control over key squares, while a weak structure may create vulnerabilities that opponents can exploit. Different pawn formations, such as isolated pawns, doubled pawns, or pawn chains, influence the flow of the game. Understanding pawn structure helps players make strategic decisions, as it affects mobility, piece coordination, and overall tactical opportunities. Analyzing pawn structure is essential for improving one's chess skills.