evan91 wrote:
For me,It is hard to play because I don't understand the position.I don't know the correct plan/s and I have a hard time visualizing the positions after 4-5 moves. How can I improve on this.
Seeing 4 to 5 moves out is pretty good. It obviously depends on the complexity of the position. And whether you are looking at the right candidate moves. Have you read Kotov's "Think like a Grandmaster"? The whole process is very difficult and none of us have mastered it.
I have not read think like a grandmaster,its not available here in my area. Even if I see 4-5 moves ahead I dont see the entire position thats why I lose.
You can sign up for a premium membership here at chess.com so you can use the tactics trainer and watch the videos. Consider it a small investment in your hobby.
If you do no want to spend that $8 a month you can go to Youtube and watch videos for free there. A Youtube search for chess returns over 2 million results.
I looked at 4 of your games. In 2 you were mated because you overlooked a bankrank mate. The other 2 you were down at least a piece with no compensation.
I would suggest going to basics. Write a check list for yourself that you will check before making a move. The first item on your list is:
1. Do I have my list with me.
2. Have I checked all of the items on my list before making a move.
3. What is my opponent threatening to do?
4. and so on...
Memorize the list and check every item on the list before making a move.
What this does is it builds mental discipline at a very basic level.
For me,It is hard to play because I don't understand the position.I don't know the correct plan/s and I have a hard time visualizing the positions after 4-5 moves. How can I improve on this.