OTB Tournament Preparation

Ok so since the Chicago Open is done with, My next challenge is an easier one (hopefully).  I am planning on playing in the Chicago Class Championships.  I am writing to post some advice for playing in OTB tournaments.  Feel free to post other preparation advice for how you prepare

1.  get a good nights sleep

2. Eat a light breakfast (preferably fruit)

3. Go over your opening repitoire, strategies, and endgame technique etc.

4.  don't move to quickly, but at the same time don't get into time pressure.

5.  When you see a good move LOOK FOR A BETTER ONE

The last one may be the reason why I came up short at the Chicago Open.  If you have anymore advice please post them... Thanks 

Always bring a jacket ... sometimes it is cold in hotels... I bring a jacket just in case. 

1. Know where the water fountain is.

2. Know where the restroom/bathroom/toilet is.

LOL.  Yeah and try to use it before the match... you will be amazed at how many times you have to go lol

Dress comfortably.

Play several training games on chess.com in your favorite opening, while using the Games Explorer, or some other opening preparation aid while in the game. I can think of no better way of preparing openings than this.

Bring a water bottle.

If they allow IPOD (though they are being phased out in tournaments with high prize funds) make your music selection in advance!  I wouldn't recommend the IPOD shuffle... she my tragic Beyonce story here

http://www.chess.com/forum/view/fun-with-chess/do-you-wear-an-ipod-while-playing

1. Dress for success

2. Go to the washroom

3.Eat some brain-food (fish comes to mind, but something like cod liver oil works too)

4.Listen to eye of the tiger

Know what you plan on opening with!  Last tournament I took about a 10 minute think after 1. e4 c5 because I wasn't sure if I should stick to mainlines, opt for my 'pet' the Snyder (2. b3), or play the wing gambit (2. b4, strange but I believe sound).

This one is key for me:

Play in several small area tournaments before a major tournament.

At these you can utilized and practice openings strategies and get use to tournament conditions.  This was huge for me at the Chgo Open.  I will be playing at the Illinois Open and the Chicago Class Championship.  Also the Wiscounsin Open is looking attractive to me at this time.

Yes and I would add to that... prepare for the time controls... I prepare different for a G/25 than I do for G/120!

Try to stay focused and study up!

Get that killer instinct going. You have to want to finish off your opponents. Be friends before and after the game. During the game, they're your worst enemy.