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The ever-modest GM Gregory Kaidanov begins his video series on positional play with, what else, a loss! He builds an attacking position despite playing against the isolated queen pawn, but loses his initiative when white creates a giant outpost. Kaidanov warns students to be critical of all exchanges, while showing how backward knight moves (Silman's favorite!) can sometimes save the day. | Watch video
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We all know Capablanca's endgame acumen, but GM Eugene Perelshteyn tells us that another world champion is equally deserving of our attention. Here Smyslov methodically overruns Gligoric, as Perelshteyn shows you how to envision a winning plan before starting your endgame journey. Even a doubled pawn can be enough for victory! | Watch video
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WGM Abrahamyan is back this month to continue her series on all things French! She provides a very instructive breakdown of the positional secrets to the Winawer Pawn Structure, then she reviews the theory of her "recommended lines" against the sharp, main line 7.Qg4 systems. | Watch video
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GM Melikset Khachiyan plays an old foe and gives a clinic on how to slowly pick apart the "Stonewall" pawn formation. He also gives sage advice on what to do when you are surprised out of the opening. The methodical effort includes play on both sides of the board, and involves both knights retreating to the first rank! The final zugzwang idea is a picturesque and fitting finish to this tense positional struggle. | Watch video
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GM Kaidanov reviews a very nice win in the career of Magnus Carlsen over Leinier Dominguez. The game highlights the importance of being aggressive with your pawns, gaining space early and often, and thinking critically in terms of what the position needs, and not just castling or playing other "principled moves" because they are normally correct. Follow those steps, try to guess the moves, and maybe you can play like Magnus! | Watch video