Avoid Time Trouble

Hi!

Have you ever lost valuable points due to time trouble? Does this happen too often? If so, this post might be useful for you!

"Time is gold," the saying goes. In chess, time is just as valuable. Playing under time pressure can cost you many rating points, so avoiding this situation is essential.

How to Avoid Time Trouble?

The key is saving time in different phases of the game and manage it efficiently. Let’s delve into some important topics that will help us save time:

Knowing Chess Theory

You can save valuable time by intensively studying the game. For instance, a strong understanding of your openings can help you blitz out the first moves of the game and reserve time for later. In the middlegame, typical position knowledge is very important. You could also master common endgames so that you play them as fast as lightning.

Sharpening Tactics and Calculation Skills

Recognizing tactical patterns and calculating variations precisely during critical moments is essential. The quicker we do this, the more time we save for later in the game.

Practical Decision-Making

Too much perfectionism can be detrimental to time management. We need to accept that playing perfect moves takes a huge amount of time and can lead to losses due to time trouble. There are moments when we need to play the best move, and others when making a good enough move while avoiding a blunder is sufficient. Do not overthink.

Specific Training for Time Management Skills

This involves activities like solving timed tactics, playing some blitz games, playing with increment, and setting time goals by move number. Practice staying ahead on the clock and review your games to spot inefficient time use.

I hope these ideas help you manage time better in your games! If you need customized advice for improving this or other aspects of your play, do not hesitate to contact me anytime!

Good luck!

maafernan, Chess.com Coach