How to Improve Positional Understanding (1727 USCF)?

• I have been working a lot on tactics in the last few months, and it has helped me gain hundreds of rating points. However, I believe I have come to the point (1727 USCF) where I need start studying positional chess, not just tactics and endgames. My time is limited, so I am trying to decide what the best way would be.

   

  Option 1: I could work my way through Jeremy Silman's How to Reassess Your Chess and the workbook that goes with it. This seems like a very logical process. If I fully understand all the imbalances in a position, it should be easy to come up with a logical plan, know when to trade pieces, when to go for an attack, etc.

   

  Option 2: I am currently in possession of the following video series: GM Manifesto. It is a very long video series by GM Damian Lemos that is designed to get the 1500 rated club player to the 2500 level. Most of the videos cover concepts by analyzing games by masters.

   

  Unfortunately, I do not have time to do both. Which approach should I take to improve my positional understanding? Please give me your opinion!

I recommend option 1. The book is about 600 pages long and if you just go through 20-30 pages everyday you will finish it in about a month. If you just sit there and watches alla the video clips there is a risk of getting passive.

Logical chess move by move is a fine book as well. What I learned to get better in positional chess is getting better at prophylaxis and the principle of the least active piece. Look for the least active piece in any position and try to improve that piece if there are no real tactics.

Off course easily said then done, maybe a chess puzzle book where instead of tactics you need to search for the best positional move!

You can get a free PDF of Andrew Soltis's 'Pawn Structure Chess' online, as far as I know a large part of "positional chess" has to do with different pawn structures and the plans that go with them. Also knowing when it's the right time to change your structure. Worth a look, if you haven't already read it. Even just the chapters that cover the structures that appear in your favourite openings. Good luck!

 Thanks for your input everyone! I think I will start studying Silman's book then. If I finish it, then I can move on to the videos.

Thanks txchessmaster 

I needed a confirmation

#2.

Easily.

Studying what... 1/5 of those has taken me to 1700-1900 in positional chess?

I can't wait to finish it and get to master level with serious study of those. Silman might up you 100-200 points in 100 hours of study positionally, but these easily twice that or more.

I have silmans reassess your chess. It don't come near to the GM manifesto. Just my opinion.

Of course, you will have to study the videos actively:

1. Don't just watch them. Pause, guess the move etc!

2. You might want to take notes

3. Play them next to a board and move the pieces. It will help you remember

4. Review when you are done!

Trust me, these are awesome.

Your choise, I can't wait to dive in! (I don't have time now. I start this summer)

What do you mean by that txchessmaster?

thanks