Connecting the Dots in Chess

I have made an observation while solving puzzles, that I feel will improve my tactical puzzle solving skills, and might have direct application during actual games. When solving a tactical puzzle of intermediate to advanced level I either: 1. Have no clue how to go about solving it and get it wrong. 2....

The Sixth Ply

Before we get started let’s define what a ply is in chess:  A ply is a half move and a move is equivalent to 2 ply or a turn by each player. For example,  1. e4 is one ply and 1…e5 would be the 2nd ply, together these two plys make one move. Getting close to the truth of a chess position...

Chess Board Visualization Exercise 2

After repeating exercise 1 for the first 2-3 sessions you can then move on to exercise 2. Board Visualization Exercise #2 Same concept as in exercise #1 but this time you do not look at the board. - note where the four knights normally develop - note where the four bishops normally develop - note the four...

Chess Board Visualization Exercises

While many claim that improved board visualization leading to the ability to play blindfold chess is the result of playing chess over a period of time, some people need to work on this ability through a board visualization exercise regimen. Board visualization training will improve your ability to calculate...

Calculating your Chess Skill and Knowledge Rating

Here’s a fun exercise to determine your estimated skill and knowledge chess rating. While this is just for fun, it can prove helpful in determining how you should focus your chess training. If your knowledge rating is much higher than your skills rating, then you you need to focus your training towards...