Real Talk: Interview with @JustNotYetGM

Hello readers, finally here is our 2nd episode of the blog series, 'Real Talk: Interviews with Chess Enthusiasts.'

*Full Name

Arnaud (aka @JustNotYetGM)

*When did you started playing chess?

In February of 2023, 6 months ago.

*What motivated you to play chess?

I stumbled upon a Gotham Chess video and I fell in love with the game. I started with a lichess account, until I discovered chess.com. I was impressed by the site and from that time chess has become more than a hobby.

*How did you learn to play chess?

Mostly online resources and chess books. I own the Gotham Chess c6 caro-kann course which is an opening I know well. I am also planning on buying the endgame masterclass on chessly.

*What are your goals in chess?

I want to get a title, preferably IM. Until that, I simply enjoy the game.

*Have you participated in any over-the-board (OTB) or online chess tournaments?

I have not participated in an OTB tournament yet but it is on my chess bucket list. I made the choice not to worry about FIDE elo until I am pretty good at the game (1500 chess.com).

*What advice do you have for other chess players looking to improve their skills?

The main tip that got me to 1100 (I am underrated on this chess.com account) is to PLAY HIGHER RATED OPONENTS. If you like to play risky, face them in rated games like online tournaments. If you are a careful player like me, you might like to face these players in unrated games. I have some pretty high level friends online (1700-2100) and playing against them in unrated has helped me tremendously. Play all those games in HIGHER TIME CONTROLS like 10 or 15:10.

*Is there anything else you would like to share about your chess journey or experiences?

I want to say thanks to the players that helped me get better: @Hex-hec @Xerses-V @Augustin8910.

Also I own a club, the "700-2300 players club", is a club where players can join together to share their chess experience, and talk about what unites us here on chess.com. Every member counts and I would be glad to see you there.

Best Whishes

From Arnaud (aka @JustNotYetGM)

I would like to express my gratitude to Arnaud for showing his interest in my interview series and generously sharing his thoughts with us. I also want to take this opportunity to encourage readers to share their own stories.

{Haven't read the 1st episode, why waiting? click here now: Real Talk: Interview with @PetasnyM}

If you're interested, you can find the link to the interview series here: Real Talk: Interviews with Chess Enthusiasts

Best Regards

Udayan (aka @ChessyMesssy)