Prophylaxis in Chess

Chess is a game about strategy. In chess we are always trying to find strategically good moves and tactics that could win the game. But what if you looked from the opposite perspective: your opponent's? You should look for not only threats, but other moves for your opponent.

Here is an example.

There is a pin on the e5 knight, so we must use this to are advantage. The natural move would be to put more pressure, but is that a good move? Think from your opponent's perspective and maybe even flip the board.

If you cannot find the answer, here is hint 1: How can the e5 knight get out of the pin?

If you still can't find the answer, here is hint 2: The knight on e5 may be able to get out if it checks.

Here is the answer: Kh1

(You can highlight the black with your cursor.)

So try to flip the board in rapid/correspondence matches to see your opponent's possible plans. Here is another example of a position needing prophylaxis. You can easily expand on the queenside, but what is your opponent thinking?

Move 1

Hint 1: Your kingside is going to be attacked.

Hint 2: Defend g4.

Answer: h5

Move 2

Hint: Place a good piece on the "h" file.

Answer: Rh6

Move 3

Hint: Connect your kingside pawns.

Answer: g6

Move 4

Hint: Move your king to a better spot.

Answer: Kf7

Moves 5 & 6

Hint: Now its safe to expand on the queenside!

Answer: a6 b5

I hope you enjoyed this blog! Make sure to comment below what you think.