Chess: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
How to Set Up a Chess Board
The Rules of Chess. How to set up a chess set on a chess board. What a properly set up chess board looks like.
The Rules of Chess. How to set up a chess set on a chess board. What a properly set up chess board looks like.
How to Play Chess
The Rules of Chess. How to set up a chess board, move the pieces, castle, capture, checkmate, and more. Chess by the rules.
The Rules of Chess. How to set up a chess board, move the pieces, castle, capture, checkmate, and more. Chess by the rules.
Chess Opening Essentials
Your first task in a chess game is to get a good position. To do that you need to know something about the openings. Here are opening variations, names, and more. (Part 1 of 8)
Your first task in a chess game is to get a good position. To do that you need to know something about the openings. Here are opening variations, names, and more. (Part 1 of 8)
How Chess Pawns Move.
The Rules of Chess. How Chess Pawns Move.
The Rules of Chess. How Chess Pawns Move.
Introduction to the Rules
The Rules of Chess. Here is a simple description of how to play chess by the rules. 'A moment to learn; a lifetime to master.'
The Rules of Chess. Here is a simple description of how to play chess by the rules. 'A moment to learn; a lifetime to master.'
How the Chess Knight Moves
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess Knight Moves.
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess Knight Moves.
How to Castle
The Rules of Chess. How to Castle.
The Rules of Chess. How to Castle.
Win at Chess
You and your opponent have both survived the opening with a playable game. Now what happens?
You and your opponent have both survived the opening with a playable game. Now what happens?
Basic Chess Concepts
The tools of chess. Here's what every chess player should know -- chess notation, draws, the relative value of the pieces, the phases of the game, tactical play, and more. This is basic knowledge you need to get started on the winner's path.
The tools of chess. Here's what every chess player should know -- chess notation, draws, the relative value of the pieces, the phases of the game, tactical play, and more. This is basic knowledge you need to get started on the winner's path.
Introduction to 1.e4
No chess player can ignore 1.e4, when White already attacks on the first move. Half of your opponents are going to open with the King's Pawn - how do you react? (Part 1 of 10)
No chess player can ignore 1.e4, when White already attacks on the first move. Half of your opponents are going to open with the King's Pawn - how do you react? (Part 1 of 10)
Initial Position
Learn the chess openings starting from the initial position. (Part 1 of 2)
Learn the chess openings starting from the initial position. (Part 1 of 2)
How the Chess King Moves
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess King Moves.
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess King Moves.
How the Chess Rook Moves
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess Rook Moves.
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess Rook Moves.
How the Chess Queen Moves
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess Queen Moves.
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess Queen Moves.
How to Capture En Passant
The Rules of Chess. How to Capture En Passant.
The Rules of Chess. How to Capture En Passant.
Chess Tips for Pieces
Although chess is a difficult game to play, there are many rules of thumb that help guide you through the complications. Our tips cover general considerations, openings, middle games, and endgames, all with specific pieces in mind.
Although chess is a difficult game to play, there are many rules of thumb that help guide you through the complications. Our tips cover general considerations, openings, middle games, and endgames, all with specific pieces in mind.
Check, Checkmate, Stalemate
The Rules of Chess. How to Check, Checkmate, and Stalemate.
The Rules of Chess. How to Check, Checkmate, and Stalemate.
King's Pawn Openings
Chess openings King's Pawn Openings. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess openings King's Pawn Openings. (Part 1 of 2)
Classic Chess : View 64 Great Games
Play through 64 great chess games considered by many experts to be among the best ever played.
Play through 64 great chess games considered by many experts to be among the best ever played.
Sicilian Defense
Chess openings Sicilian Defense. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess openings Sicilian Defense. (Part 1 of 2)
Relative Value of Chess Pieces
Knowing what is a fair trade of chess pieces is crucial to conducting a successful chess game. There are major chess pieces and minor chess pieces. What does winning an exchange mean? Examples of equal trades.
Knowing what is a fair trade of chess pieces is crucial to conducting a successful chess game. There are major chess pieces and minor chess pieces. What does winning an exchange mean? Examples of equal trades.
Tactical Play
Tactics, the heart of chess, are based on the way the pieces move. The most common tactical themes -- the fork, the pin, discovered attack, discovered check, and the xray -- are all based on the double attack.
Tactics, the heart of chess, are based on the way the pieces move. The most common tactical themes -- the fork, the pin, discovered attack, discovered check, and the xray -- are all based on the double attack.
Top 10 Popular Openings
Top 10 Popular Chess Openings (Part 1 of 10) • What's hot? What's not? Here are ten chess openings all players should be familiar with. Are you?
Top 10 Popular Chess Openings (Part 1 of 10) • What's hot? What's not? Here are ten chess openings all players should be familiar with. Are you?
Symmetrical English
Chess Opening Tutorial : English Opening - Symmetrical Variation (Part 1 of 10) • The position after 1.c4 c5 is known as the Symmetrical Variation of the English Opening. The lack of direct contact between the armies and the absence of threats means that there are a generous number of moves that can be played in different orders by both sides. Transpositions from one position to another are common and transpositions into openings other than the English are possible at almost every step.
Chess Opening Tutorial : English Opening - Symmetrical Variation (Part 1 of 10) • The position after 1.c4 c5 is known as the Symmetrical Variation of the English Opening. The lack of direct contact between the armies and the absence of threats means that there are a generous number of moves that can be played in different orders by both sides. Transpositions from one position to another are common and transpositions into openings other than the English are possible at almost every step.
How the Chess Bishop Moves
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess Bishop Moves.
The Rules of Chess. How the Chess Bishop Moves.
How to Promote a Pawn
The Rules of Chess. How to Promote a Pawn.
The Rules of Chess. How to Promote a Pawn.
Chess Traps : View Full Games
Play through the moves leading up to some well known chess traps.
Play through the moves leading up to some well known chess traps.
Positional Play
When there are no tactics, positional play is the main factor. You have to pay attention to the center, open lines, piece activity, pawn structure, and King safety. Do you know how to tell a good position from a bad one?
When there are no tactics, positional play is the main factor. You have to pay attention to the center, open lines, piece activity, pawn structure, and King safety. Do you know how to tell a good position from a bad one?
Unusual First Moves
The initial position shares a feature with all chess positions -- the legal moves do not all have equal value. What distinguishes the good moves from the bad moves, and from the not-so-bad moves? (Part 1 of 5)
The initial position shares a feature with all chess positions -- the legal moves do not all have equal value. What distinguishes the good moves from the bad moves, and from the not-so-bad moves? (Part 1 of 5)
Origin of Chess
Where did chess come from? The most widely accepted scenario is that chess appeared in India around 600 A.D., was adopted in Persia around 700 A.D., and was absorbed by Arab culture around 800 A.D. Just as chess is a difficult game, its origin is a difficult puzzle. We may never know the truth of its birth.
Where did chess come from? The most widely accepted scenario is that chess appeared in India around 600 A.D., was adopted in Persia around 700 A.D., and was absorbed by Arab culture around 800 A.D. Just as chess is a difficult game, its origin is a difficult puzzle. We may never know the truth of its birth.
Guide to the Chess Pieces - The King
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Phases of a Game
Your strategy depends on knowing the phase of the game that you're in. The three basic phases are the opening, the middle game, and the endgame. The correct transition from one phase to another can mean the difference between a win and a draw -- or a draw and a loss.
Your strategy depends on knowing the phase of the game that you're in. The three basic phases are the opening, the middle game, and the endgame. The correct transition from one phase to another can mean the difference between a win and a draw -- or a draw and a loss.
Introduction to 1.d4
The initial position of a chess game is nearly symmetric. Only the position of the King and Queen breaks the symmetry, and this makes all the difference between 1.d4 and 1.e4. In most games opened with 1.d4, White plays an early c4 followed by Nc3. (Part 1 of 10)
The initial position of a chess game is nearly symmetric. Only the position of the King and Queen breaks the symmetry, and this makes all the difference between 1.d4 and 1.e4. In most games opened with 1.d4, White plays an early c4 followed by Nc3. (Part 1 of 10)
Positional Play : Piece Placement -- Chess Strategy
'Play with your Pieces, not with your Pawns!' Here are some elements of piece play and chess strategy which are in the arsenal of every good chess player. Our guide is Aron Nimzovitch, the author of My System.
'Play with your Pieces, not with your Pawns!' Here are some elements of piece play and chess strategy which are in the arsenal of every good chess player. Our guide is Aron Nimzovitch, the author of My System.
Queen's Pawn Openings
Chess openings Queen's Pawn Openings. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess openings Queen's Pawn Openings. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess Ratings
The Elo rating is a relative measure of a chess player's skill. What does Elo stand for and how is a rating calculated? (Part 1 of 5)
The Elo rating is a relative measure of a chess player's skill. What does Elo stand for and how is a rating calculated? (Part 1 of 5)
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Top 10 Popular Chess Openings
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Ten chess openings all players should be familiar with.
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Ten chess openings all players should be familiar with.
Where to Play Chess Online
Web-based resources let you play chess online at any time of the day against opponents anywhere in the world. It is no exaggeration to say that they have revolutionized chess play. Registration is required for most online chess play resources, but some offer limited online play without registration.
Web-based resources let you play chess online at any time of the day against opponents anywhere in the world. It is no exaggeration to say that they have revolutionized chess play. Registration is required for most online chess play resources, but some offer limited online play without registration.
Chess Notation
Chess notation gives us the means to record and publish chess games. The most commonly used notation is algebraic, but it's useful to know the older descriptive notation. Notation also allows us to discuss the geometry of the chessboard.
Chess notation gives us the means to record and publish chess games. The most commonly used notation is algebraic, but it's useful to know the older descriptive notation. Notation also allows us to discuss the geometry of the chessboard.
Opening Repertoire
Here's how to avoid losing a chess game in the opening. It's a simple procedure that can be used by all players from beginner to expert, including the best in the world. What do grandmasters know that the rest of us don't? (Part 1 of 10)
Here's how to avoid losing a chess game in the opening. It's a simple procedure that can be used by all players from beginner to expert, including the best in the world. What do grandmasters know that the rest of us don't? (Part 1 of 10)
Guide to the Chess Pieces - The Rook
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Guide to the Chess Pieces - The Queen
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Famous Chess Players
Introducing our register of outstanding players, past and present. The names on the register were not chosen at random, and here we explain how the register was developed. Is your favorite player missing? Let us know!
Introducing our register of outstanding players, past and present. The names on the register were not chosen at random, and here we explain how the register was developed. Is your favorite player missing? Let us know!
Guide to Chess Gambits (Part 1)
How many different gambits and counter gambits are there? Part 1 of the About Chess Guide to Gambits covers 1.e4 e5 and 1...e6. Almost half of these are variations of the Kings Gambit.
How many different gambits and counter gambits are there? Part 1 of the About Chess Guide to Gambits covers 1.e4 e5 and 1...e6. Almost half of these are variations of the Kings Gambit.
Endgame Fundamentals
To become a better chess player, improve your endgame. Some of the most difficult positions have the fewest pieces.
To become a better chess player, improve your endgame. Some of the most difficult positions have the fewest pieces.
French Defense
Chess openings French Defense. (Part 1 of 6)
Chess openings French Defense. (Part 1 of 6)
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Opening Essentials
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Opening Essentials
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Opening Essentials
Guide to the Chess Pieces - The Pawn
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Elementary endgames
You've reached a position where there are almost no pieces left on the board. Do you know how to notch the win or to escape with a draw?
You've reached a position where there are almost no pieces left on the board. Do you know how to notch the win or to escape with a draw?
Profiles of Famous Chess Players
We add the first profiles to our register of Famous Chess Players, starting with the first 13 official World Champions. These profiles list the events which led to the crowning of a World Champion, usually matches plus an occasional tournament, and are linked from the register entry for each player.
We add the first profiles to our register of Famous Chess Players, starting with the first 13 official World Champions. These profiles list the events which led to the crowning of a World Champion, usually matches plus an occasional tournament, and are linked from the register entry for each player.
Guide to the Chess Pieces - The Knight
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
1972 World Chess Championship : View Fischer - Spassky Games
View games from the 1972 Fischer - Spassky match, Reykjavik, Iceland.
View games from the 1972 Fischer - Spassky match, Reykjavik, Iceland.
English Opening
Chess openings English Opening. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess openings English Opening. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess Equipment
Chess can fit any budget. Unless you're a blindfold whiz, a chess set is the bare minimum. Add a clock for serious or blitz games, and a few other accessories for tournament use, and you're ready for any situation.
Chess can fit any budget. Unless you're a blindfold whiz, a chess set is the bare minimum. Add a clock for serious or blitz games, and a few other accessories for tournament use, and you're ready for any situation.
Buy a Chess Computer
Looking for a chess computer? Here we list the three main manufacturers alphabetically. Your first decision is whether to buy a tabletop or a travel model. Then consider the playing strength of your electronic partner. Finally, shop around for price and service. From your About Chess Guide.
Looking for a chess computer? Here we list the three main manufacturers alphabetically. Your first decision is whether to buy a tabletop or a travel model. Then consider the playing strength of your electronic partner. Finally, shop around for price and service. From your About Chess Guide.
Improve Your Middle Game (Part 1 - Patterns)
Pattern recognition is one of the skills that makes a master. It's not inherent; it's learned.
Pattern recognition is one of the skills that makes a master. It's not inherent; it's learned.
Guide to the Chess Pieces - The Bishop
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Beginner's Guide to the Six Chess Pieces
Middle Game Fundamentals
Most chess games are won and lost in the middle game, where your imagination is your greatest ally.
Most chess games are won and lost in the middle game, where your imagination is your greatest ally.
Opening Repertoire : View Example Games
Play through example games used in the About Chess Opening Repertoire Recommendations.
Play through example games used in the About Chess Opening Repertoire Recommendations.
Sicilian Najdorf
Chess Opening Tutorial : Sicilian Defense - Najdorf Variation • If you play 1.e4, planning to answer the Sicilian with 2.Nf3 and 3.d4, you will meet the Najdorf Variation (1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 a6) many times. Be prepared!
Chess Opening Tutorial : Sicilian Defense - Najdorf Variation • If you play 1.e4, planning to answer the Sicilian with 2.Nf3 and 3.d4, you will meet the Najdorf Variation (1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3 a6) many times. Be prepared!
Calculate Your Chess Rating with a Javascript Calculator
Just plug in your current rating, your opponents' ratings, and your results. Then click 'Calculate'. The tool will determine your new rating plus show some intermediate numbers used to compute the rating.
Just plug in your current rating, your opponents' ratings, and your results. Then click 'Calculate'. The tool will determine your new rating plus show some intermediate numbers used to compute the rating.
Buy a Digital Chess Clock
Before you buy a digital chess clock, find out who's who and what's what. Shop carefully. You'll find a lot of information online. Here we list several manufacturers alphabetically. From your About Chess Guide.
Before you buy a digital chess clock, find out who's who and what's what. Shop carefully. You'll find a lot of information online. Here we list several manufacturers alphabetically. From your About Chess Guide.
Chess Openings at a Glance : Albin Counter Gambit
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.d4 d5 2.c4 e5
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.d4 d5 2.c4 e5
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Count the Developing Moves
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : How many developing moves are needed to complete the opening?
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : How many developing moves are needed to complete the opening?
Openings - Traps! (Part 1)
Introducing our traps series : a chess trap has a large element of surprise. The trapped player didn't notice anything special, but the position is suddenly, completely, irrevocably lost. Here are 21 best-loved traps.
Introducing our traps series : a chess trap has a large element of surprise. The trapped player didn't notice anything special, but the position is suddenly, completely, irrevocably lost. Here are 21 best-loved traps.
Portable Game Notation (PGN)
Downloading games is a popular chess activity on the Internet. PGN makes it simple.
Downloading games is a popular chess activity on the Internet. PGN makes it simple.
Open Game
Chess openings Open Game. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess openings Open Game. (Part 1 of 2)
ECO
Definition of chess term 'ECO'.
Definition of chess term 'ECO'.
Where to Play Chess
Looking for places to play chess? Play chess against a computer, in a club, in a tournament, or online. Here are tips, links, and resources to find more information to play chess.
Looking for places to play chess? Play chess against a computer, in a club, in a tournament, or online. Here are tips, links, and resources to find more information to play chess.
Improve at Chess
Want to play chess better? Of course you do! It's hard to know where to go after learning the basics. Motivation is an important factor and just asking the question -- 'How can I improve?' -- is a first step.
Want to play chess better? Of course you do! It's hard to know where to go after learning the basics. Motivation is an important factor and just asking the question -- 'How can I improve?' -- is a first step.
Positional Play : Pawn Structure
(Q) What makes the Pawn structure so important for developing a plan? (A) Because it evolves slowly and a single aspect of that structure can remain fixed for many moves, sometimes for the remainder of the game. Some types of Pawn structure are so common that they have names.
(Q) What makes the Pawn structure so important for developing a plan? (A) Because it evolves slowly and a single aspect of that structure can remain fixed for many moves, sometimes for the remainder of the game. Some types of Pawn structure are so common that they have names.
Checkmates with Names
Some checkmates are so notorious or so common that they have names. They represent mating patterns which arise frequently in real games. Knowledge of these patterns, plus many more, comes early on the learning curve of every improving player.
Some checkmates are so notorious or so common that they have names. They represent mating patterns which arise frequently in real games. Knowledge of these patterns, plus many more, comes early on the learning curve of every improving player.
Chess Openings at a Glance : Alekhine's Defense
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.e4 Nf6
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.e4 Nf6
Chess - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Chess guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the Chess guide site.
Starting Online Play
Start to Play Chess Online (Part 1 of 10) • If you like to play chess, but have never played online chess, our first question is, 'Why not?' If your answer is, 'There are so many places to play, I don't know where to start', then this tour is for you.
Start to Play Chess Online (Part 1 of 10) • If you like to play chess, but have never played online chess, our first question is, 'Why not?' If your answer is, 'There are so many places to play, I don't know where to start', then this tour is for you.
Keep Knights near the center
Keep Knights as close to the center as possible. 'A Knight on the rim is grim.'
Keep Knights as close to the center as possible. 'A Knight on the rim is grim.'
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Maximize the Usefulness of Your Moves
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Principle of Maximum Usefulness
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Principle of Maximum Usefulness
French Defense - 3.Nc3
Chess Opening Tutorial : French Defense - 3.Nc3 (Part 1 of 10)• The most common continuation of the French Defense is 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5. Black accepts a restricted Bishop and less space in return for a solid position which is not easily breached. The variations after 3.Nc3, where the Knight develops to its natural square, keep the central tension. Black has three good replies: 3...Bb4, 3...Nf6, and 3...dxe4.
Chess Opening Tutorial : French Defense - 3.Nc3 (Part 1 of 10)• The most common continuation of the French Defense is 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5. Black accepts a restricted Bishop and less space in return for a solid position which is not easily breached. The variations after 3.Nc3, where the Knight develops to its natural square, keep the central tension. Black has three good replies: 3...Bb4, 3...Nf6, and 3...dxe4.
Sicilian - Closed Variation
Chess openings Sicilian Defense - Closed Variation. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess openings Sicilian Defense - Closed Variation. (Part 1 of 2)
Sicilian Defense 2.Nf3
Chess openings Sicilian Defense 2.Nf3. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess openings Sicilian Defense 2.Nf3. (Part 1 of 2)
Guide to Chess Gambits (Part 2)
Part 2 of the About Chess Guide to Gambits covers all openings except those that start 1.e4 e5 or 1...e6. The Queen's Gambit is in our list even though it's not a true gambit. It's not the only so-called gambit where it's too dangerous to keep the Pawn.
Part 2 of the About Chess Guide to Gambits covers all openings except those that start 1.e4 e5 or 1...e6. The Queen's Gambit is in our list even though it's not a true gambit. It's not the only so-called gambit where it's too dangerous to keep the Pawn.
Chess Traps - Quiz 1 Index
Chess Traps - Quiz 1 Index
Chess Traps - Quiz 1 Index
Caro-Kann Defense
Chess openings Caro-Kann Defense. (Part 1 of 7)
Chess openings Caro-Kann Defense. (Part 1 of 7)
Bishop's Opening
Chess openings Bishop's Opening. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess openings Bishop's Opening. (Part 1 of 3)
Dutch Defense
Chess openings Dutch Defense. (Part 1 of 5)
Chess openings Dutch Defense. (Part 1 of 5)
Ruy Lopez
Chess openings Ruy Lopez. (Part 1 of 8)
Chess openings Ruy Lopez. (Part 1 of 8)
Consider the Pawn structure
Keep your Pawn structure healthy. Try to ruin your opponent's structure.
Keep your Pawn structure healthy. Try to ruin your opponent's structure.
Chess Traps - Quiz 1.1(Q)
Chess Traps - Quiz 1.1(Q)
Chess Traps - Quiz 1.1(Q)
Chess Glossary (A-Z)
Confused about the various acronyms and terms used in chess? Check the glossary for definitions.
Confused about the various acronyms and terms used in chess? Check the glossary for definitions.
World Chess Champions
World Chess Champions -- here's a list of the best players on the planet, men and women, past and present.
World Chess Champions -- here's a list of the best players on the planet, men and women, past and present.
Reti Opening
Chess Opening Tutorial : Reti Opening (Part 1 of 10) • The move 1.Nf3 is commonly known as the Reti Opening. Richard Reti (1889-1929) began playing 1.Nf3 at the highest levels of chess in 1923. His reasoning was that since 1.e4 and 1.d4 present targets in the center, White should hold back these moves until Black's own intentions are clear. This was the foundation of the Hypermodern approach to openings.
Chess Opening Tutorial : Reti Opening (Part 1 of 10) • The move 1.Nf3 is commonly known as the Reti Opening. Richard Reti (1889-1929) began playing 1.Nf3 at the highest levels of chess in 1923. His reasoning was that since 1.e4 and 1.d4 present targets in the center, White should hold back these moves until Black's own intentions are clear. This was the foundation of the Hypermodern approach to openings.
Chess Quizzes for Beginners : Notation, Setup, and Moves
It's quiz time! You've learned the basics of chess notation, how to set up the board for a new game, and how the pieces move. Now you want to see how well you've learned the basics. If you get a perfect score, then you know how to play chess!
It's quiz time! You've learned the basics of chess notation, how to set up the board for a new game, and how the pieces move. Now you want to see how well you've learned the basics. If you get a perfect score, then you know how to play chess!
Chess Tips : Positional Guidelines
Every chess player learns practical applications of positional principles. Here are a few of the best known. Don't let these guidelines interfere with common sense, which takes priority over all else.
Every chess player learns practical applications of positional principles. Here are a few of the best known. Don't let these guidelines interfere with common sense, which takes priority over all else.
Chess in the Movies : Lolita (1962)
Chess serves the same symbolic purpose on film as in life -- intellectual activity, competition, gamesmanship -- plus a quick nod to art and science.
Chess serves the same symbolic purpose on film as in life -- intellectual activity, competition, gamesmanship -- plus a quick nod to art and science.
Best Chess Books
Chess library -- there have been more books written about chess than about any other game. See our list of recommended classics especially chosen for the beginning and intermediate player.
Chess library -- there have been more books written about chess than about any other game. See our list of recommended classics especially chosen for the beginning and intermediate player.
Indian Defenses
Chess openings Indian Defenses. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess openings Indian Defenses. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess Draws
Some games have no winner. Here's how to identify perpetual check, triple repetition, insufficient mating material, and the 50 move rule. Many draws are by mutual agreement.
Some games have no winner. Here's how to identify perpetual check, triple repetition, insufficient mating material, and the 50 move rule. Many draws are by mutual agreement.
Reti System
Chess openings Reti System. (Part 1 of 4)
Chess openings Reti System. (Part 1 of 4)
Chess in the Movies : The Best House in London (1969)
Chess serves the same symbolic purpose on film as in life -- intellectual activity, competition, gamesmanship -- plus a quick nod to art and science.
Chess serves the same symbolic purpose on film as in life -- intellectual activity, competition, gamesmanship -- plus a quick nod to art and science.
Chess clocks
A chess clock has two connected time displays, linked so that only one clock can run. A player who fails to make the required number of moves loses on time. Even World Champions forget to press the clock!
A chess clock has two connected time displays, linked so that only one clock can run. A player who fails to make the required number of moves loses on time. Even World Champions forget to press the clock!
Every Move Explained - 1960 Letelier-Fischer - Introduction
Every move of the chess game played at the 1960 Leipzig Olympiad between Rene Letelier and Bobby Fischer is explained move by move.
Every move of the chess game played at the 1960 Leipzig Olympiad between Rene Letelier and Bobby Fischer is explained move by move.
Famous Chess Players (A-M)
A brief introduction to some of the most famous players of the royal game.
A brief introduction to some of the most famous players of the royal game.
Checkmate! - Easy
The Rules of Chess. Checkmate! - Easy.
The Rules of Chess. Checkmate! - Easy.
Can you find checkmate in 1 move? (Quiz no.1)
Which move is checkmate?
Which move is checkmate?
Middle game - Double attacks
Tactics start to flow when one move does two or more things. For a deeper look into double attacks, our guide is Chess Tactics for Advanced Players by Yuri Averbakh. Don't be put off by the word advanced. Averbakh's advice is for everyone!
Tactics start to flow when one move does two or more things. For a deeper look into double attacks, our guide is Chess Tactics for Advanced Players by Yuri Averbakh. Don't be put off by the word advanced. Averbakh's advice is for everyone!
Chess Traps Quiz 1.1 (BLT011A)
W - B [B15] Chess Traps Quiz 1.1 (BLT011A) 1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 dxe4 4. Nxe4 Nf6 5. Qd3 B15.07.33
W - B [B15] Chess Traps Quiz 1.1 (BLT011A) 1. e4 c6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 dxe4 4. Nxe4 Nf6 5. Qd3 B15.07.33
Sicilian - ...d6 Variations
Chess openings Sicilian Defense - ...d6 Variations. (Part 1 of 5)
Chess openings Sicilian Defense - ...d6 Variations. (Part 1 of 5)
Chess Traps - Quiz 1.1(A)
Chess Traps - Quiz 1.1(A)
Chess Traps - Quiz 1.1(A)
Viswanathan Anand
Viswanathan Anand was born 11 December 1969, in Madras, India. One of the world's top chess players since the early 1990s, he won the FIDE World Championship in 2000 and the undisputed World Championship in 2007.
Viswanathan Anand was born 11 December 1969, in Madras, India. One of the world's top chess players since the early 1990s, he won the FIDE World Championship in 2000 and the undisputed World Championship in 2007.
Online Chess Play Sites IV - Playchess.com
Introduction to online chess play - Playchess.com.
Introduction to online chess play - Playchess.com.
Elementary endgames (Part 2)
Pawnless endgames may not appear in many games, but they are important when evaluating more complex endgames. Here are the simplest -- Rook vs. minor piece, Rook & minor piece vs. Rook, Queen vs. Rook -- you should know them.
Pawnless endgames may not appear in many games, but they are important when evaluating more complex endgames. Here are the simplest -- Rook vs. minor piece, Rook & minor piece vs. Rook, Queen vs. Rook -- you should know them.
Top 10 Ways to Lose at Chess
No one likes to lose at chess, but if you're going to lose you might as well do it in style.
No one likes to lose at chess, but if you're going to lose you might as well do it in style.
Chess Middle Games - Puzzles
You'll never be a good player if you overlook mate in two moves or simple wins of material. Sharpen your tactical eye with puzzles from real games.
You'll never be a good player if you overlook mate in two moves or simple wins of material. Sharpen your tactical eye with puzzles from real games.
King's Gambit
Chess openings King's Gambit. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess openings King's Gambit. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess Glossary : Opening Terms
Chess terminology is at its most colorful in the names that have been applied to the openings and their variations. Chess also has a technical vocabulary which applies to opening theory in general.
Chess terminology is at its most colorful in the names that have been applied to the openings and their variations. Chess also has a technical vocabulary which applies to opening theory in general.
Every Move Explained - 1960 Letelier-Fischer - 1.d4
Every move of the chess game played at the 1960 Leipzig Olympiad between Rene Letelier and Bobby Fischer is explained move by move.
Every move of the chess game played at the 1960 Leipzig Olympiad between Rene Letelier and Bobby Fischer is explained move by move.
Chess Openings at a Glance : Benko Gambit
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 c5 3.d5 b5
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 c5 3.d5 b5
Closed Game
Chess openings; Queen's Pawn Games; Closed Game. (Part 1 of 4)
Chess openings; Queen's Pawn Games; Closed Game. (Part 1 of 4)
Chess 101 - How to Play Chess
Chess 101 - Learn to play chess in six lessons.
Chess 101 - Learn to play chess in six lessons.
Improve Your Middle Game (Part 3 - Plans)
You've heard the phrase, 'Play with a plan!' What is a plan and how do you make one?
You've heard the phrase, 'Play with a plan!' What is a plan and how do you make one?
Chess Openings at a Glance : Center Counter Game (Scandinavian Defense)
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.e4 d5
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.e4 d5
Tools to Calculate Your Chess Rating
Even if you hate math, you can calculate chess ratings. First see our Rating Calculator tool. Then see our series on Step By Step Rating Calculation. Do you know that you can use performance ratings to identify your strengths and weaknesses?
Even if you hate math, you can calculate chess ratings. First see our Rating Calculator tool. Then see our series on Step By Step Rating Calculation. Do you know that you can use performance ratings to identify your strengths and weaknesses?
Bird's Opening
Chess openings Bird's Opening. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess openings Bird's Opening. (Part 1 of 3)
Where to Play Chess - So Many Places to Play Chess!
Computer and network technologies have revolutionized the royal game. There are now more ways to meet and play opponents than at any time in the long history of the game.
Computer and network technologies have revolutionized the royal game. There are now more ways to meet and play opponents than at any time in the long history of the game.
Chess for Free - Free chess for your free time
Whoever said 'the best things in life are free' could have been talking about chess. You don't have to be a cheapskate to enjoy chess, but you don't have to be a millionaire either.
Whoever said 'the best things in life are free' could have been talking about chess. You don't have to be a cheapskate to enjoy chess, but you don't have to be a millionaire either.
Chess Traps : Quizzes
No one likes to get caught in an opening trap. Here are a series of exercises designed to test your sense of danger in the opening.
No one likes to get caught in an opening trap. Here are a series of exercises designed to test your sense of danger in the opening.
Chess Openings at a Glance : Bishop's Opening
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.e4 e5 2.Bc4
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.e4 e5 2.Bc4
Chess in the Movies : From Russia with Love (1963)
Chess serves the same symbolic purpose on film as in life -- intellectual activity, competition, gamesmanship -- plus a quick nod to art and science.
Chess serves the same symbolic purpose on film as in life -- intellectual activity, competition, gamesmanship -- plus a quick nod to art and science.
Watch Bishops and fixed Pawns
Pay attention to the Bishops when you fix Pawns permanently. Since Bishops move on one color, Pawns on that color are problematic.
Pay attention to the Bishops when you fix Pawns permanently. Since Bishops move on one color, Pawns on that color are problematic.
Chess Openings at a Glance : Center Game (incl. Danish Gambit)
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.e4 e5 2.d4
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.e4 e5 2.d4
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Introduction to 1.d4
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Queen's Pawn Opening
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Queen's Pawn Opening
Two Knights and Giuoco Piano
Chess Opening Tutorial : Two Knights Defense and Giuoco Piano (Part 1 of 10) • The opening 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4 is a carryover from the romantic era of chess. White's third move aims at f7, hinders ...d5, and leads to gambits or speculative, often unsound, sacrifices. There are two major branches for Black: the Two Knights Defense (3...Nf6) and the Giuoco Piano (3...Bc5).
Chess Opening Tutorial : Two Knights Defense and Giuoco Piano (Part 1 of 10) • The opening 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.Bc4 is a carryover from the romantic era of chess. White's third move aims at f7, hinders ...d5, and leads to gambits or speculative, often unsound, sacrifices. There are two major branches for Black: the Two Knights Defense (3...Nf6) and the Giuoco Piano (3...Bc5).
McDonnell A. - De La Bourdonnais L., 4th match 1834
McDonnell A. - De La Bourdonnais L. [B32] 4th match/London (62) 1834 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4
McDonnell A. - De La Bourdonnais L. [B32] 4th match/London (62) 1834 1. e4 c5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. d4 cxd4
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Introduction to 1.e4
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : White attacks with the first move
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : White attacks with the first move
Origin of Modern Chess
Near the end of the 15th century, the game of chess underwent a dramatic transformation when the powers of two of the weakest pieces were enhanced. The slow game characterized by a long opening buildup was suddenly a rapid game where checkmate was possible after only a few moves. The new game, quickly adopted wherever it was played, pushed the old game aside after only a few decades.
Near the end of the 15th century, the game of chess underwent a dramatic transformation when the powers of two of the weakest pieces were enhanced. The slow game characterized by a long opening buildup was suddenly a rapid game where checkmate was possible after only a few moves. The new game, quickly adopted wherever it was played, pushed the old game aside after only a few decades.
Improve Your Middle Game (Part 2 - Combinations)
A combination is a variation in the course of which both sides make forced moves and which ends with an objective advantage for the active side. - Romanovsky
A combination is a variation in the course of which both sides make forced moves and which ends with an objective advantage for the active side. - Romanovsky
Albin Counter Gambit
Chess openings Albin Counter Gambit. (Part 1 of 2)
Chess openings Albin Counter Gambit. (Part 1 of 2)
Center Counter Game
Chess openings Center Counter Game. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess openings Center Counter Game. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess King Explained
The rules of chess start with the moves of the six different pieces. Here are the most important considerations for the chess King. (Part 2 of 3)
The rules of chess start with the moves of the six different pieces. Here are the most important considerations for the chess King. (Part 2 of 3)
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : Unusual First Moves
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : The good, the bad, and the really ugly.
Index of Chess Opening Tutorials : The good, the bad, and the really ugly.
Every Move Explained - 1960 Letelier-Fischer - 1...Nf6
Every move of the chess game played at the 1960 Leipzig Olympiad between Rene Letelier and Bobby Fischer is explained move by move.
Every move of the chess game played at the 1960 Leipzig Olympiad between Rene Letelier and Bobby Fischer is explained move by move.
Watch out for unopposed Bishop
Watch for weaknesses which can be exploited by unopposed Bishops. Since Bishops move on one color, weaknesses on that color are problematic.
Watch for weaknesses which can be exploited by unopposed Bishops. Since Bishops move on one color, weaknesses on that color are problematic.
Chess Quizzes for Beginners : Check and Checkmate
This series of quizzes is designed to test your knowledge of check and checkmate. Each quiz is a series of seven multiple choice questions based on a specific chess position. Make sure you've mastered one set of six quizzes before you start the next set.
This series of quizzes is designed to test your knowledge of check and checkmate. Each quiz is a series of seven multiple choice questions based on a specific chess position. Make sure you've mastered one set of six quizzes before you start the next set.
Nimzo-Larsen Attack
Chess openings Nimzo-Larsen Attack. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess openings Nimzo-Larsen Attack. (Part 1 of 3)
Chess Openings at a Glance : English Opening
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.c4
Chess Openings at a Glance : 1.c4
Every Move Explained - 1844 Hoffmann-Petrov - Introduction
Every move of an 1844 chess game played in the romantic style is explained move by move.
Every move of an 1844 chess game played in the romantic style is explained move by move.
About Chess Site Map : A to Z List of All Resource Categories
About Chess is a big site that grows constantly. Here is an alphabetical list of all categories listed under Articles & Resources in the left hand column of every page on the site. If you ever get lost, don't overlook the 'You are here' trail at the top of all pages.
About Chess is a big site that grows constantly. Here is an alphabetical list of all categories listed under Articles & Resources in the left hand column of every page on the site. If you ever get lost, don't overlook the 'You are here' trail at the top of all pages.
Online Chess Play Sites II - InstantChess
Introduction to online chess play - InstantChess.
Introduction to online chess play - InstantChess.
FIDE Top-10 Players (1975-2004)
Since 1970, chess has used the Elo rating system to rank world class players. Using FIDE historical ratings we identify world Top-10 players over the last 30 years.
Since 1970, chess has used the Elo rating system to rank world class players. Using FIDE historical ratings we identify world Top-10 players over the last 30 years.
Open Game 2.Nf3
Chess openings Open Game 2.Nf3. (Part 1 of 10)
Chess openings Open Game 2.Nf3. (Part 1 of 10)