The One Concept To Help Beginners Improve Their Positional Play

Make your pieces happier.

A challenge I faced as a chess coach was helping students understand the concept of positional chess. The struggle was they were able to understand what was taught, but not successful in applying the concept in their own games. That is until I ask them to think of their pieces as being happy or sad. Let's look at some examples:

Which of Black's pieces is not happy? 

The rooks! Hence, we want to challenge our opponent's rook on the c-file as quickly as possible. 

In the game, Black ignored the happy piece principle and played f5 and went on to lose the game. 

Next example, 

If you solve this one, well done! The knight jumps to the d5-square and gives a check while opening the c-file for the rook to enter. If pieces can get more active while creating threats, that is often a good sign. That is exactly what the next move does, and it brings the rook onto the seventh file while creating a threat against the c7-bishop. 

Did you manage to find White's killing blow?

This is the beauty of putting the pieces on good-looking squares. The final position is a good one to compare the quality between White's and Black's pieces. White's rooks are active while the bishop supports them. Black's rooks are still on the initial square. 

So, to improve on your ability to look for a plan when there are no tactical options, you want to ask, "Which piece is not happy right now, and how can I make my pieces happier?"

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.