Chapter 09 · Intermediate · 5 min
King + pawn vs king
King and pawn versus king looks tiny, but one tempo changes everything. Win or draw can be one square apart.
Explanation
King + pawn against king is often played within one square.
The goal of the player with the pawn is to promote it. The defender wants to stop him with his king. It all depends on the position of the kings, the opposition and whether the attacking king can pass in front of his pawn.
Don't always push the pawn too quickly. Often, the king's position must first be improved. The pawn is important, but the king is the bodyguard. And a late bodyguard is rarely reassuring.
To remember
King + pawn against king often depends on the opposition and the position of the king in front of the pawn.
Classic error
Pushing the pawn too early and letting the opposing king block.
Player Tip
First bring your king in front of or next to the pawn. The pawn comes next.