Read the manuals?
Books to help you use your computer for chess software
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Good thought. However, I do not have a manual for my Rybka engine that I downloaded. And some of the other programs I have do not really address all of my concerns with pictures and in depth detail.
I need something that will explain and lay it all out for me to see, understand, and explore.
stwils
Dec 25, 2008
0
#4
Everyone always has a start, except those that never begin. There's no shame in admitting ignorance, but plenty in cultivating it.
Ask specific questions here; answers will follow.
Start with what you know.
If I understand your question about Arena, your asking about the string of notation symbols when the engine is thinking (and that it will record in the notation if set to do so). It is a sequence of moves, and countermoves: it's best move, followed by the best reply, and so on. It's a potential game continuation without the numbers you would have in the game score.
I will admit, (and I am not so proud of the fact) that I don't know a lot about what is on my computer screen when I am using Arena with Rybka, or Fritz, or whatever. I don't really understand what all the strings of algebraic figures that go sailing down after a move. I know the highest number is the most popular move, but what about all the other numbers that are right beside it? Is that the best move for me (as I think the first one is for black.)
There is so much I don't know. I don't really quite get databases or PGN or FEN or even opening books. Or engine strength. And what does it all mean to me? And I do not know how to analyze my games.
Are there any books on how to understand what your computer is doing or could be doing when you put in your chess software? Are there any websites that would show the screen pictures and explain what I really want and need to know?
Maybe I should be spending the time studying my books, but since I use the computer to play chess, I need to have a fuller understanding of what is going on.
If you have any suggestions, please tell me.
stwils