Help

I know. I get so confused trying to work out a flurry of trades or visualizing an attack strategy without being obvious, it's so frustrating. I'm not exactly a beginner but thinking ahead is hard, arghh!

It's a skill that can be strengthened by practicing puzzles regularly. The trick is to solve puzzles in your head before moving the pieces and aim to get them correct first time. Ignore the clock. If you do say 5 a day, over a few months your calculation and tactical vision should improve.

I am new to chess. It is fundamental that you have to develop your pieces first before attacking. The process is usually : Control the center, develop your minor pieces, castle, develop your major pieces and connect your rooks. But what if you are developing your pieces and your opponent starts attacking you right off the bat? How do I respond in such case?  They are taking away my pieces while I am still bringing out my knight and bishop.