I second that absolutely. The thread which Somebodysson mentions is quite simply the best I have ever read here and makes fascinating reading. All the more amazing for the fact that it started simply with a post of a blundered game at a low level, with a request for help. There must be dozens of such threads every week, but this one has really exploded into something worthwhile. I think that the reason is not only because Jaglavak and others have been willing to analyse in such depth and explain their principles; also Somebodysson seems to be the exemplary pupil who is not only bursting with enthusiasm and the will to learn, but can also express himself perfectly. So my compliments to him, and to all others who are making the thread a goldmine of ideas and information for all players from beginners to experienced level.
@Jaglavak: an appreciation
Yes indeed; a fascinating thread full of useful insights and altruistic advice from some excellent players, particularly Jaglavak. Also I agree with the comments on Somebodysson who sounds a really nice guy. I imagine he will not be low rated for long.
I second that absolutely. The thread which Somebodysson mentions is quite simply the best I have ever read here and makes fascinating reading. All the more amazing for the fact that it started simply with a post of a blundered game at a low level, with a request for help. There must be dozens of such threads every week, but this one has really exploded into something worthwhile. I think that the reason is not only because Jaglavak and others have been willing to analyse in such depth and explain their principles;
yes, TheR-tist was another early poster to the thread who really put a lot of thought and generosity into his contributions. And Yaroslavl as well, stayed with us and gave a lot.
thank you blitzjoker. I'm just realizing that all kinds of people read the threads who don't post there, so a poster doesn't know others are 'in the room' and doesn't know what their reactions are to the thread.
All the more reason for people to post if they think they have anything constructive to offer, even appreciation.
The really exemplary thing with that particular thread is that so many people contributed, some contributed really outstanding material, and no one stayed around very long who was grumpy, condescending, mean or disruptive.
I plan on posting my weekly game from the chess club. I think I'll continue to call it "What the $%^@# was he playing and..." but I hope to sometimes write "and why did I win"!!
Jaglavak does not accept messages from non-friends, and does not accept friend requests
lol... I didn't know u could do that.
So it logically follows, he does not accept messages period :D
I also agree it's a really awesome thread, not just for beginners either -- I'm 1900 USCF and I found some of this stuff really helpful.
So it logically follows, he does not accept messages period :D
I also agree it's a really awesome thread, not just for beginners either -- I'm 1900 USCF and I found some of this stuff really helpful.
unless he initiates who he wants to be friends with.
Yes, I noticed your rating when you posted on the other thread, and I was thrilled that you posted what you did :)
I plan on posting my weekly game from the chess club. I think I'll continue to call it "What the $%^@# was he playing and..." but I hope to sometimes write "and why did I win"!!
Just keep the same thread, then we know where to look! 
Looking forward to the next instalments!
I've been playing for about three years now and absolutely love this great game. I study everything I possibly can, am currently learning more about endgames (Lucena/Philidor/Opposition/Triangulation etc.). I analyse my own games, do tactics puzzles every day, read Silman, blah blah blah.
Jaglavak has completely changed my outlook on how to approach chess. I have always been heavily reliant upon 'positional' maxims to determine my candidate moves - never move pawns in front of your king, put rook on the semi-open file, castle as early as possible etc etc. I'm solving harder and harder tactics puzzles all the time, learning a lot of patterns/combinations, but I never get to use them in a game. Why? Because I'm too worried about deciding which diagonal for my bishop controls the most squares! TARGETS and MOBILITY ladies and gentlemen.
If there was a Mr Miyagi award on chess.com it should go to Jaglavak.
Jaglavak does not accept messages from non-friends, and does not accept friend requests, so I have no other way of doing this, other than this way. Jaglavak was active on a thread I had started about a game of mine.
@Jaglavak: this is a trivial realization for most players, but for me it is big. Working on the tactics trainer this morning, I realized the difference between a trade, and a capture. Very very different. Previously, I had thought of trades as a variety of capture. This morning I realized they are not. Thank you.