Strategies / Principles

Chess is a complex game filled with tactics and principles that directly affect winning and losing. Learn them here.

Top Secrets of the Sicilian: Why is the Sicilian Defense so strong?

Looking for an aggressive and dynamic defense against 1.e4? Why is the Sicilian Defense so strong? Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of one of the most popular opening defenses in chess. Why is the Sicilian Defense so strong? A fierce opening …

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The Pawn’s Gambit – How Important is the Pawn in Chess? 

You may think a pawn is insignificant. But just how important is the pawn in chess? They’re so important, nine times out of ten they actually determine the outcome of the entire game. How Important is the Pawn in Chess?  Pawns are crucial in chess. …

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Queen Hunting: How to Punish Early Queen Attacks

Have you ever started a game and your opponent comes out early with their queen? Learning how to punish early queen attacks is a great way to get a leg up on your opponent. How to Punish Early Queen Attacks Putting pressure on the attacking …

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A Hidden Power: Why Was En Passant Added to Chess?

There’s basically two “special” moves in chess: castling and en passant. Why was en passant added to chess? If you’re a chess beginner, using en passant is critical to your game and I’m going to show you why. Why Was En Passant Added to Chess? …

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The Ultimate Chess Sin: What is the Worst First Move in Chess?

Out of the twenty possible moves you can make to start a game, what is the worst first move in chess? Let’s take a deep dive into understanding how to improve your game by NOT starting off with a weak position. What is the Worst …

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From Beginner to Pro: Best Chess Defense Openings for Beginners

When it comes to becoming a master at chess, even as a beginner, I think we all wonder which are the best chess defense openings. Imagine being able to counter your opponent’s every move before springing your attack! Best Chess Defense Openings for Beginners Understanding …

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The Endgame Myth: Is Rook vs Bishop Endgame a Draw?

It’s been a grueling game and it’s down to this. It’s your king and bishop versus your opponent’s king and rook. Is rook vs bishop endgame a draw? Is Rook vs Bishop Endgame a Draw? More often than not, rook vs bishop endgame ends in …

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Beyond Material Advantage – What is Positional Advantage in Chess?

When it comes down to the strategies and principles of chess, what is positional advantage? How much of a factor is positional advantage vs material advantage? What is Positional Advantage in Chess? Positional advantage means the placement of your pieces pose a greater threat than …

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The Great Balancing Act – Offense vs Defense in Chess

Offense vs Defense. In chess, which is better? Should you focus heavily on the attack and capturing your opponent’s pieces? Or should you do everything to protect your pieces and let your offense be reactive? Offense vs Defense in Chess Pressuring your opponent with a …

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The Great Castling Mystery: Who Invented Castling in Chess?

One special move definitely stands out when it’s made on a chess board. Who invented castling in chess? Between castling and en passant, there are really only 2 special moves that can be made on a chess board. How did this rule change come about? …

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