Introduction:
Why Strategy Is Important in Chess?
Chess is sometimes referred to as the “game of kings,” but you don’t have to be a king to be an expert. What you do need, though, is a firm grasp of strategy. Where most beginners spend time studying how the pieces move, the true power comes in when you begin thinking strategically. Whether you’re playing casually or you want to compete, learning a couple of fundamental strategies can revolutionize your game and see you winning more frequently.
At Chess Elite, we are dedicated to assisting new players like you in unlocking the mysteries of chess. Are you ready to level up your game? Schedule an online free chess demo class today and learn from our best-in-class chess instructors. Let’s get started with the top 10 chess strategies that every new player should learn!
1. Control the Centre of the Board
The board centre (squares d4, e4, e5, and d5) is the most crucial region of chess. Having it under control will provide your pieces with greater freedom of movement and enable you to attack in any direction.
How to do it: Begin by advancing your central pawns (e.g., 1.e4 or 1.d4). Next, develop your knights and bishops to back up your control.
Pro Tip: Don’t advance your flank pawns (such as a3 or h3) early in the game—they don’t contribute to centre control.
2. Build Up Your Pieces Early
Time is of the essence in chess. The sooner you get your pieces on the board, the greater your chances of winning.
How to do it: Focus on developing your knights and bishops first. Avoid moving the same piece multiple times in the opening.
Common Mistake: Beginners often push too many pawns early on, leaving their pieces stuck in the back row.
3. Castle Early for King Safety
Your king is your best piece, and it should be protected at all costs. Castling not only guards your king but also springs your rook into action.
How to: Transfer your king two squares in the direction of a rook, and then put the rook on the adjacent square to the king.
Pro Tip: Castle on the kingside (short castle) for faster development or the queenside (long castle) for a more aggressive setup.
4. Avoid Moving the Same Piece Repeatedly in the Opening
Every move count in chess, and wasting time can cost you the game.
How to do it: Create all your pieces prior to targeting a particular plan.
For instance, rather than shuffling your knight between moves, move your bishops and rooks out to back your position.
5. Grasp Pawn Structure
Pawns are deceptively basic, yet they have a massive influence on the game. A well-established pawn structure can provide a lasting gain.
How to do it: Steer clear of creating weaknesses such as doubled or isolated pawns. Try for a strong chain of pawns in the middle.
Pro Tip: Utilize pawns to dominate important squares and restrict the opponent’s piece movement.
6. Look for Tactical Opportunities
Tactics are the foundation of chess strategy. Developing the ability to recognize them will enable you to gain material or deliver checkmate.
How to do it: Pay attention to forks, pins, and skewers. Train by practicing solving tactical problems to increase pattern recognition.
Example: Employ your knight to fork the opponent’s queen and king, gaining material in the bargain.
7. Plan in Advance with a Definite Strategy
Chess is a game of strategy. Without strategy, you will be responding to your opponent’s moves rather than directing the game.
How to do it: Evaluate the position and determine if you should attack, defend, or better your piece placement.
Example: If your opponent has a poor pawn, prepare to attack it with your pieces.
8. Don’t Ignore Your Opponent’s Moves
It’s easy to get caught up in your own plans, but ignoring your opponent’s threats can lead to disaster.
How to do it: Always question yourself, “What is my opponent trying to do?” before you make a move.
Pro Tip: Mix offense and defence to remain one step ahead.
9. Trade Pieces Wisely
Selling pieces may make the game easier, but one has to be able to tell when it’s appropriate.
How to do it: Make trades when they help your position (e.g., trading a knight for a bishop in an open position). Don’t make trades that hurt your pawn structure or benefit your opponent.
Example: If you’re ahead in material, consider trading pieces to simplify the game and secure your win.
10. Practice Fundamental Checkmate Patterns
The art of giving checkmate is the most sought-after thing in chess.
How to do it: Study typical checkmate patterns such as the back-rank mate, smothered mate, and Scholar’s Mate.
Pro Tip: Master these patterns in online games or with a friend to gain confidence.
Conclusion:
Begin Your Chess Journey with Confidence!
Chess is a game of infinite possibilities, and learning these 10 strategies will provide you with a solid foundation to develop from. Whether you’re playing in the centre, thinking ahead, or executing checkmate, each move is bringing you closer to being a better player.
At Chess Elite, we are committed to being there with you each step of the way. Reserve a free chess demo class online today and discover from our premier chess coaches. Are you ready to put it into action? Play online chess with us and begin your journey today.
Keep in mind, chess is not merely a game—it’s a quest. And with the proper approaches, you’ll discover it’s one of the most fascinating and rewarding experiences you’ll ever obtain.