Chapter 10 · All levels · 3 min
Analyze a position
Before moving, ask what is attacked, what is threatened, and which piece is doing nothing. Three questions beat a random move.
Explanation
Analyzing a position starts with a few simple questions.
Before playing, look at what is being attacked, what is being threatened, and which pieces are not participating. This little routine avoids a lot of automatic moves. You don't need to calculate everything like an engine.
Start with the immediate dangers: Is my king safe? Is a part engaged? Does the opponent threaten checkmate? Then only look for your plan. It's less glamorous than a sacrifice, but much more reliable.
To remember
Before playing, look at threats, attacked pieces, king safety and forcing moves.
Classic error
Play the first move that looks pretty.
Player Tip
A 10-second mini checklist avoids a lot of pieces given away for free.