How to Do Better in Tournaments

Hi,

Recently, I have started to play in OTB tournaments. One thing I have found is that when playing in these tournaments, I have a tendency to get very nervous and start making elementary mistakes, and play far worse than I normally do. Does anyone have any tips for how to perform better in OTB tournaments? Also, what sort of things does one do to prepare for an OTB tournament? Thanks!

-hankm

#1 tip, play in them often.  OTB tournament play is just different enough if only because of the level of seriousness that you can develop tournament rust even if you actively play online.

This might sound wimpy, but at one point I found myself getting very anxious during tournaments too, to the point I felt sick.  I started keeping chamomile tea around to help even it out, and it actually worked well.  When some other things going on resolved themselves I didn't have the problem anymore.

Try to cultivate the mindset that you're there to learn.  You're not there to win the tournament and have your board showered with gold pieces in the tradition of Marshall.

Maybe the best advice in this post though, sit on your hands!  And oldy but a goodie.  Before making your move, clear your head of all the lines you were looking at, and check for elementary tactics.  Do any of your opponent's forcing moves (captures and checks) win something?  Only reach your hand out across the board when you're ready to put your 100% stamp of approval on the move.

As for what to do to prepare for a tourney (I assume you mean one that's close at hand) you should be sure you're in good playing form.  Do some tactical puzzles and get your calculation and threat awareness going.  You might want to review some of the opening lines you plan to play.  Are you particularly uncomfortable facing a certain opening?  Basic maintenance like this. 

side note: extra sleep might help. Not necessarily with being nervous, but your all around alertness could improve. If you go to bed a little early every night for atleast a few days if not a week before the tournament (depending on how serious you are) you might feel a bit more refreshed and prepared.

the best thing to do to prepare for OTB tournaments would be to practice tactics

during a game, i sometimes just get up on my opponents turn when i am nervous and get a drink of water (or just look at other games).  Although looking at other people's games might not be a good idea, it helps relax me.  i normally like getting water after i make a stupid move so that i walk aroud a little and can relax my mind.

Hope it helps!

Thanks for commenting, everyone! Your comments have been very helpful, and I will try them next tournament I play.

My advice just breathe. Slow down your breathing and relax. Hopefully that should help.