I can't wait for my first offical OTB tournament.

Thank you everyone!

You'll find that people play different in rated tournaments. Results may vary when playing for money in real tournaments as opposed to how someone plays against an unrated just for fun. I've lost to players that are unrated and would maybe at best be 1000 points below me if they weren't afraid to play and get rated. Non rated for fun games don't mean anything.

That's awesome! I'm excited for the World Open coming up.

Good Luck!

Thank you, I will report back

Okay, thank you for your advice!

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That's it? That's all?! Why such a short post? Surely you can add more.

I try....

I've been to a couple of <1500 tournaments.  Bring either headphones or earplugs and if you get antsy during a game with a long time control, abruptly get up, go outside for a few mintues, and when you get back inside, take a leak before returning to the game.  You'll be more comfortable.

Don't be afraid of any rating, remember: Higher rated players are "bullies" that need to be taught a lesson. Lower rated players are "brats" that will crumble to your whims. If you happen to play someone of your exact rating, well, your strength is higher then your actual rating :)

Also, beware of poor sports who offer a draw when they are losing. They say "draw" and then stick our their hand. It can be tempting to shake their hand, but if you do that seals the draw. Instead, simply say "no thanks" or make a move.

Good luck, I wish you much success!

gl

@bishopcannons, I did not know that I have to say 'check' when I check my opponent's king.

I believe being an asian gives me an advantage due to my small eyes my opponent won't see where I am looking.

I will definetly take shower with cold water in the morning before the tournament.

Thank you so much for your looooooooooooooooooong adivce.

You do not have to say check, it is not in the rules. 

And after many tournaments I've never even seen a player say check.  I didn't read his loooooong post... maybe he was being funny or something, but to be clear it's not required and no one says it (even in clubs).

Make sure to use the bathroom before your games. You will lose time for the bathroom break if you need to go during your games. Believe me, when you need to use the bathroom, you rush through your moves and dont play well.

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Maybe in unofficial scholastic tournaments put together by teachers?  I can't imagine why you think it's in the USCF or FIDE rules though... because it isn't.

when people say "check" to me in an otb game, i just smile and proceed to crush that naive person somewhat mercifully, saying "check" when i give check too because surely that person is just misguided

enlightenment should come after the game though - just politely explain "no, you don't have to say check EVERYTHING YOU KNOW IS WRONG"