Calculation system¶

calculating well isn't just spotting tactics. It's looking moves ahead in positional games as well! Thus calculation will improve every aspect of chess.

Tips courtesy of chess fox Always start your calculations by observing the consequences of your opponent's last move 2) Understand the difference between forcing moves and non-forcing moves 3) Chess tactics support your calculation skill 4) The ability to calculate deeper variations relies heavily on visualization skill

Observing the consequences of the last move¶

We've already done calculations on the last move. We already know about the position. Consequently we don't need to calculate everything from scratch on every new move.

This line of thinking is similar to what I try when I'm playing blindfolded or following a chess book - Rather than visualize where the pieces are, insead I track what each piece accomplishes. Ba6, i ask myself okay what are the pieces that the bishop is now targeting?

Forcing vs Non-Forcing Moves¶

Calculate forced moves as deeply and accurately as you can. There is no need to waste a lot of time calculating non-forcing moves. Simply evaluate them based on your understanding of chess principles and strategy.

Forcing moves¶

have limited response, and should be calculated to identify if it's advantageous.

Forcing moves = Checks, captures, attacks.

Non-Forcing Moves¶

I tend to notice good non-forcing moves quite quickly. So the emphasis should be on calculating the good forcing moves.

No direct threats, so the opponent has many options. In such a case, there is no need to calculate many lines in the future. Instead, we ask ourselves simply.

if I were my opponent, what would I play?

I should never forgo this question, it naturally guides you to evaluate the important and unimportant lines. i.e if there's a strong response by the opponent, then we'll naturally look one move deeper to see if we have a response.

If there's no challenging response, then we need not waste time contiuning to calculate.

When solving puzzles¶

Don't just look for the tactic, but try to understand the position. What are the weak squares? What are the loose pieces? What squares are weak? This will improve my positional play as well