How important is a Database?

I find databases very useful, In particular, for making your own databases of your favourite openings, adding games played by GM,s who also play it.

I also download my games from here and keep in a database with my notes to the games added, then check with an engine. I don't bother with games that were won just by a blunder, unless it was a particularly good game up to then.

I use a database when I play in OTB tournaments, it is great for checking on my opponents openings and style of play.

To summarize, I find a database saves me a lot of time by not having to write my notes longhand and I can always print off any games or notes I need.

I hope this helps.

Thanks, the Chessbase 11 program can do so many things, that learning everything the software can do almost seems as complicated as real chess.

Yeah, the OPENING REPORT function is cool as hell, it gives you so much information about the opening.

I also like the ability to create your own personal databases, although I'm still trying to learn how to do this.

I'm having trouble with the FILTER function, I tried searching for all the games played by Kasparov and I got ZERO GAMES as a result.  I guess I'm doing it wrong..

Big learning curve on this software, hopefully I will get used to it.

Some of the interface is a little strange.

To get Kasparov's games, right click on the Big Database (or whichever one you have), and choose Search... from the drop-down menu. Then put in "Kasparov" and "G" for White, and check the box "Ignore colors." Click on OK and you should have the complete list come up. I tried it just now and got 2,527 games listed.

taorankings.com

Thanks for the tip, that helps me a lot.

I got a bunch of games, how can I see how many are listed total?  Where did you get 2,527?  I just see a long long list :)