
Check Out My First Chess Newsletter! (More to Come!)
I’m excited to announce that I’ve launched my chess newsletter this January! 🎉 Every Friday, I share my tips, recommendations, interesting links, and answers to readers’ questions. It’s perfect for chess enthusiasts looking to improve their game.
Below, I’ll copy the first one to show you what it looks like. You can join me here
WEEKLY DOSE OF CHESS WITH IM MAT #1
The new year brings renewed enthusiasm and new opportunities. New year, new me… again. But this year will be different. I am happy to announce that every Friday, you will receive my newsletter, where I’ll share valuable tips and interesting links with you.
TIP OF THE WEEK
3 Things You Need to Do to Prepare for a Chess Tournament
- Polish your openings: Review the most common lines and work on fixing mistakes and inaccuracies.
- Practice tactics: Solve a lot of tactical puzzles to sharpen your vision and spot more during the tournament.
- Get used to the board: If it's an OTB (over-the-board) tournament, spend some time practicing with a real board. This will help your brain adjust to the physical setup.
LINKS WORTH YOUR TIME
- What Magnus Carlsen’s Jeans Have to Do with Chess
It offers a compelling look at how Carlsen’s actions reflect his blend of sportsmanship, defiance, and individuality, reshaping the norms of competitive chess. - The final round of the World Chess Championship between Gukesh and Ding was decided in a pawn endgame. Test your skills in pawn endgames.
- Explore some critical ideas from pawn endgames here
FAMOUS IDEA
Saemisch – Nimzowitsch
BOOK SPOTLIGHT
My System by Aron Nimzowitsch
This is one of the most famous chess books of all time and a favorite of Bobby Fischer. Published in 1925, this classic work celebrates its 100th anniversary this year!
Renowned for its depth, the book introduces advanced strategic concepts such as files, ranks, diagonals, weak squares, outposts, center control, and space. While it may not be the most accessible read, it remains a must-have for every serious chess player aiming to deepen their understanding of the game.
CHESS MEMES
SOLUTION TO THE FAMOUS IDEA SECTION
5... h6!!
ZUGZWANG (in the middlegame!)
White has no good moves left.
After Kh2, Black responds with R5f3.
After Rd1, Black plays Re2.
After Bc1, Black captures with Bxb1.
Black can now make patient waiting moves with the King, forcing White into a hopeless position. Inevitably, White will be compelled to self-destruct.
I hope you enjoy it! If you do, I’d love for you to sign up. In future newsletters, I’ll be answering your questions and sharing even more chess insights!