Chess is not only a game; it’s an intellectual journey that tests your mind and inspires creativity. But before you can indulge in the excitement of checkmates and masterful moves, you must properly set up the chessboard. Whether you’re a complete novice or simply need a quick reminder, this tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up your chessboard like a pro. And if you’re ready to advance your skills to the next level, schedule an online free chess demo class today with Chess Elite. Our elite chess coaches are here to assist you in beginning your chess journey with confidence!
Step 1: Familiarity with the Chessboard
The chessboard is your battlefield, and understanding its layout is the first step to setting it up correctly.
- The board consists of 64 squares in an 8×8 pattern.
- The squares alternate between light and dark shades (typically white and black).
- Each square has a unique coordinate, like a1 or e4, which helps players track moves during the game.
Pro Tip: Always set the board up so that the bottom-right corner is a light-coloured square. This is a universal rule to guarantee the board is in the correct position.
Step 2: Placement of the Pawns
Your pawns are the backbone of your chess troops, and they constitute the front line.
- Put all 8 pawns on the second row (rank) in front of your other pieces.
- You place your pawns on the 2nd rank if you’re playing as White, and on the 7th rank if you’re Black.
Fun Fact: Pawns are small, but they have a big impact on controlling the centre of the board.
Step 3: Positioning the Rooks
Rooks are the cornerstones of your chess army.
- Put the rooks on the corners of the board.
- For White, the rooks move to a1 and h1. For Black, they move to a8 and h8.
Did You Know? Rooks are strong pieces, particularly in the endgame when they can control open files.
Step 4: Positioning the Knights
Knights are the only ones that can leap over other pieces, so they are special and flexible.
- Put the knights beside the rooks.
- For White, the knights move to b1 and g1. For Black, they move to b8 and g8.
Pro Tip: Knights are strongest in the centre of the board, where they have more control squares.
Step 5: Positioning the Bishops
Bishops are your diagonal pieces, and they function optimally when they have open diagonals.
- Put the bishops beside the knights.
- The bishops continue on c1 and f1 for White. They continue on c8 and f8 for Black.
Fun Fact: Each bishop begins on a particular colour (light or dark) and remains on that colour throughout the game.
Step 6: Putting the Queen on the Board
The queen is the strongest piece on the board, so she needs to have her own place.
- The queen always begins on her corresponding colour.
- In White’s case, the queen proceeds to d1 (a light square).
- For Black, the queen continues on d8 (a dark square).
Mnemonic Hint: “Queen on her colour” is a simple reminder of where to put her.
Step 7: Placing the King
The king is the most valuable piece, and his protection is your priority.
- Put the king on the last square in the back row.
- For White, the king moves on e1.
- The king moves to e8 for Black.
Pro Tip: Get your king protected by castling early during the game. It’s a good way to enhance your king’s security and power-up your rook.
Step 8: Double-Check Your Setup for a match
Take a few seconds before play to make sure everything is in its proper place.
- For White: Rear row (from left to right): Rook, Knight, Bishop, Queen, King, Bishop, Knight, Rook.
- Second row: All pawns.
- For Black: Left to right back row: Rook, Knight, Bishop, Queen, King, Bishop, Knight, Rook.
- Seventh row: All pawns.
- Quick Check: Ensure the bottom-right corner is a light square, and the queens are on their corresponding colours.
Why Getting the Board Right Is Important?
Assembling the board properly is the key to a fantastic game. It is the basis of equity, enables you to abide by common rules, and establishes the groundwork for clever play. And it’s a good opportunity to wow your opponents or buddies!
At Chess Elite, we think that each amazing chess adventure begins with the fundamentals. That’s why our elite-level chess coaches are available to walk you through each step, from assembling the board to learning sophisticated tactics.
Ready to Start Playing Chess?
It’s More Interesting Than You Think! Chess is a game that’s easy to learn but takes a lifetime to master. Whether you’re playing for fun or aiming to compete, the first step is setting up the board correctly. Once you’ve got that down, the real fun begins!
Begin your chess adventure today with Chess Elite. Schedule an online free chess demo class now and learn from the masters. Our elite chess coaches are waiting to assist you in unleashing your potential and falling in love with the game.
And if you’re keen to hone your skills, why not play online chess with us? It’s a great way to develop your skills and meet other chess players.
Conclusion
Properly setting up a chessboard is the beginning of becoming an excellent player. With this tutorial, you’re now ready to play and discover the engaging chess world. Here at Chess Elite, we care about teaching beginner like you how to play, develop, and appreciate the game.
Then what are you waiting for? Play chess—it’s fascinating, stimulating, and highly rewarding! Book your online free demo chess class now at https://chesselite.in/ and begin your journey towards becoming a chess master.