The books put me to sleep, so I'd saying playing is better.
is studying chess books or playing games better
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Mar 24, 2025
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#3
My opinion is that most chess books are over the head of anyone below Expert level. The author gives so many (!) moves with no explanation of why it is good. And even more importantly, how to find the move in the first place! Too many (!) basically 'of course' Of course - what????
You have to do all that work yourself, IF you can figure it out in the first place! It will strengthen you because you figure it out on your own, but most players will not be able to - even putting the time in.
I truly believe chess books are not written to help the 'average' player. They do not want the average player knocking on the "Expert" door.
Beginner players get books on the basic strategies - castle, develop pieces, control the center.
Experts and above get the rest of the books.
The rest of us...........nothing. "Keep them out while taking their money" is the plan. Just my opinion.
is studying chess books or playing chess better