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Chess.com video lessons... Meh, or is it just me?

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TheRevDrJ

Hi everyone, 

I bought the $100 one year subscription here specifically for the free lessons. At first, I thought they were amazing, and I did learn some key concepts about controlling the center of the board. Also, through puzzles (which for me is probably worth the $100 for this year; I really enjoy them), I've learned quite a bit about forking and pinning. But now the video lessons are on openings and I'm really struggling to remember things, and honestly, stay awake sometimes. :') 

I'm sure I need a coach, but I can't figure out what direction to go. I've msg'd a few people who looked great, but they are great, and while they are worth every penny they charge, I can't justify paying that kind of money while I'm a crappy 800 level player. 

Am I alone in struggling with the video lessons? Would I be better off w/ a couple of books? 

It's not an intelligence issue -- yet, anyway. :') Just the videos don't seem to be the best way that *I* learn. 

Thanks for any suggestions, affirmations, or corrections you might have to offer. 

Alramech

Figuring out how to study chess can be just as difficult as chess itself.  My personal, simple recommendation is to study a little bit of everything.  Don't have to do the opening lessons only.  Dip your toes into strategy lessons and endgame lessons as well.  Don't feel afraid to jump around different topics that peak your interest.

 

TheRevDrJ

Huh. It never even occurred to me to skip past the openings and go to the next section. I was a software developer for a decade and it ingrained a sort of "the next thing always builds on the last thing" kind of mentality. That's a great idea -- at least to give me something new to look at!