Live vs correspondance

I have a question: How do you play live chess? The default timer (and that which 95% of players play) is 3 minutes. That's it so short! I've tried 3 min live chess in the past and I always timed out very quickly. I like to take my time and think multiple moves through and their outcomes and live chess does not allow me that. So I just play correspondance.

But just wondering how others manage live. Did you get better and faster thinking over time? It seems crazy to play chess at 3 min

You can play live at whatever time settings you like.

I rarely play anything less than 30 minutes.

Though I play some occasional speed chess because its good practice for when you're in time trouble.

But yes, short chess is very popular.

I was talking to a really strong player the other day (2nded for a British Championship contender).  He said he only plays 3 minutes now, and uses the same openings because he's "seen it all".

I couldn't help thinking that if you've "seen it all" then why keep playing? heh.

i mainly play 1 minute games, because there are so many cheaters in longer time controls.

I drink, I smoke, I gamble, I chase girls – but postal chess is one vice I don't have

-Mikhail Tal

I thought 10 minute games are most commonly played?  Thats what I play.

Only at very high rating.

yes but i have very high rating!!! 

play chess for short time/blitz just for training the minds. And just for fun. This is beginning for actual time games.

I tried playing chess by mail once, but the pieces fell all over the board in the package by the time it got to my opponent.

Blitz is a fun diversion when I crave action vs. deep thinking.  It's more intellectually challenging than XBox.

Plus, I find it hones my sense for the attack that helps me identify promising lines in correspondence.

I prefer 5 min.