How I improved my puzzle skills

When I started solving puzzles on Chess.com, I often felt stuck. Sometimes I made the right first move, but then failed to find the follow-up. Over time, I realized puzzles are not only about tactics — they also train your calculation and pattern recognition.

Here’s what helped me improve my puzzle rating and confidence:

1. I slowed down.
At first, I rushed to move. Now I take a moment to imagine each possible response from my opponent before moving.

2. I learned common tactical patterns.
Forks, pins, skewers, discovered attacks — I studied them one by one and practiced identifying them quickly.

3. I reviewed my mistakes.
After every puzzle I failed, I spent time understanding why I missed it. That helped me stop repeating the same errors.

4. I practiced daily.
Even 5–10 puzzles a day improved my sharpness. Consistency is the secret.

Now, puzzles have become my favorite way to train. Each one feels like a small battle where focus and logic decide the winner.