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A little project I’m working on to help you think better as a chess player

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BernardGoesPlayChess
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Hi all,
It's been a while since I wrote a blog post. Life happened, and I couldn't find the time, so I would like to get back at it again.

I am working on a course meant for amateur players. It is an ambitious topic on how to think in chess. So, over the next few weeks, as I complete the course, I will also drop some positions/concepts that I am interested in for you to try.

So, let's start with the core idea in part one: You must look for your opponent's idea before your own. You can ignore it and carry out your plan if it is a bad one. If it is a good one, you must react to it before executing your own ideas.

Let's take a look at the position below:

White's last move was Ra1-Rd1. It looks like a healthy move to get the last piece into the game, but it overlooks Black's idea in the position. Find Black's winning idea in the position.
Since we know that Black's real threat is to play Bxf3 and destroy the kingside structure, how should White stop the threat?

It was necessary to play Qe2 to prevent Black's idea.


Comment below on how you found the puzzle and what you think about the course.

Want help in improving your chess? I'm currently open to coaching new students. If you are interested or know anyone who would like coaching, you can send me a message here. For more info, check my bio and website.