Chess Overview
by Bert Gower
A game of chess is a battle between two opposing armies. As in a real battle,
each side must have a plan and that plan must include the ultimate goal of checkmate. Along the
path to that goal there will be many short term plans to reach intermediate goals. Typical
plans may look something like;
| Opening | Middle Game | Ending
|
| | | | | |
|
| | | | | |
|
| develop pieces | attack weaknesses | promote pawns
|
| control center | gain space | trap king
|
Of course, at any stage of the game that your opponent leaves pawns or pieces unattended you
should capture them and if a checkmate position arises you should immediately take advantage
of it. Let's look at each phase.
The Opening
During the first 10-12 moves of the game you should move only the pawns that let your pieces
off the back rank. Preferably the d and e pawns. Move the pieces towards the center where they
have more mobility. Castle as soon as posible. Try to reach a position where all pieces are
developed to good squares.
The Middle Game
During this phase the plan is to attack. Attack pieces and force them to inferior squares.
Advance pawns and gain space. Create weaknesses and attack them. Win material. Make sure you
get the best of each exchange. When it is your turn to move, examine each possible check, then
every capture. Look for threats, forks, pins, skewers, discoveries. If none of these tactics
look good, move your worst placed piece.
The Ending
When the Queens have been exchanged and forces reduced, advance your King and passed pawns.
Always look for possibilities of checkmate.
Last modified: 03 October 2004
Roger McIntyre
