How to get Better?

I have been playing chess on and off for a while.

I would not say I'm anything but novice, i play against a family friend who has been playing 25 years. I beat him many times.

 I want to get to the level where i can compete against the big guys. Im also a Software Engineering student so i don't get much time.

 Any ideas. Any popular DVDs to learn from?

The tried and tested method is a combination:

1. Play over the board chess with a stronger player, of kindly disposition, such that you get a few pointers each game.

2. Pick a trusty beginners book (anything by Fred Reinfeld, say) then move onto something a little more challenging (Chess Praxis by Nimzovich). You could then move onto The Soviet School of Chess by Kotov. Study these texts cover to cover with a board at hand.

You'll improve dramatically and in short order.

**The book choices above are personal choices, many other worthy titles abound.**

I have "The Mammoth Book Of Chess - Graham Burgess". Is that any good? I had it about 2 years ago when my friend invited me to play at a club.

 I never really read it much. I was getting through basic opening moves.

Do a lot of tactics exercises until you can recognize the patterns on your real games!

When I say a lot it's about 600+. The 1209 of CT-art it's a nice selection. Go over then a lot of times.