How To Be Good At Chess
Millions of people around the world play chess regularly—but how do you become good at chess?
1. Define what “good at chess" means.
To some people, being “good” means they can beat the average chess player. If that is your definition, then being rated between 1200-1400 is good enough. At that level you will beat most people who just casually know how to play. To other people, being “good” means winning against other chess players who have been playing for several years. That might mean getting up to a 1600+ rating.
Still, to other people that might mean “never really losing” or “beating almost everyone I play.” The reality is...that’s impossible! Because unless you are Magnus Carlsen, you are going to both win AND lose a lot of chess games. So set a reasonable goal and work towards it!
2. Practice lots of tactics puzzles
One of the best things you can do to get good at chess is improve your vision of the chessboard. If you can see what is going on and spot the mistakes in your opponent’s play, you have a much better chance of winning. You can improve your tactical abilities with our Tactics Trainer.
3. Always review your games with computer analysis.
It’s very hard to get good if you just play chess without reviewing your games. Mastering chess requires that you use your games as a teaching tool, to see where you got it right and got it wrong. Chess.com offers automated computer analysis that can give you the insights into how you played.
Just click on “Computer Analysis” after any game.
4. Create a study plan.
You always improve your chances of winning if you have a plan and stick to it. You can create your own chess study plan and schedule, or you can use one of Chess.com’s free study plans.
5. Be patient.
Getting good at chess doesn’t happen overnight. Chess is a deep game that requires many years of study and play. Don’t let yourself get frustrated by mistakes and losses—they are a necessary ingredient in getting better!
For most people, getting “good at chess” is a lifelong pursuit. And the definition of “good” just keeps getting higher and higher as you get better. So enjoy the game at whatever level you play.
If you are looking to find an online chess home to help you “get good,” sign up at Chess.com today.
