Chess Tip Of The Day

After every game, try to think of three new things you have learned. You will find this is not always so easy, but it is a very useful exercise nonetheless. Jacob Aagaard, Excelling At Chess

The winning process often requires patience; progress is made with small steps. Mikhail Marin, Secrets Of Chess Defence

In planning your game, arrange your pieces in such a way that they are of maximum use and cooperate well with one another. Strive for harmony! Vladimir Popov, Chess Lessons

If there is a 'good forcing move' available, it is probably the best move on the board, or, at any rate, the only move likely to be better is another forcing move. Cecil Purdy, The Search For Chess Perfection

For the offer of a pawn (in the opening) there must be one of four reasons: a) secure a tangible advantage in development; b) deflect the enemy queen; c) prevent the enemy from castling, either permanently or for several moves; d) build up a strong attack. Reuben Fine, The Ideas Behind The Chess Openings

When faced with an unfamiliar opening, or even an unfamiliar move in an opening you know, your first reaction should be to take a deep breath and try to understand what your opponent is doing. John Watson, Mastering The Chess Openings - Volume 4