Practice Makes Perfect

Although I still consider myself an amuture compared to most of you, I feel that since I joined this site I have become a much better player. When I first signed on I lost alot more than I won, however lately ive been winning more. i believe this to be from the help of those I played and from those of you who gave me advice. so I would like to thank those of you who have. If anyone else would like to help me on my track to be a respectable player I would appreciate anything you have to say.  

 Blunders are like acid reflux.  A most painful thing which just keeps on coming up every time you forget about it. 

In my experience of researching concrete methods of improving as a beginner or even intermediate player is to strengthen fundamentals! Though I would agree with LaskerFan about having an opening reperoire I think it's a grossly misused piece of advice that is situational to the player's taste and current ability. What good will it do you if you know ten variations of the caro-khan but get lost when the middle game arises?

 As for strengthening basics and fundamentals I've found that there are many books that help sharpen certain areas. If you haven't been playing for long, then I greatly reccomend Yasser Seirawan's Winning Chess Tactics, and Winning Chess Strategy. They are both wonderful books that cover elements of all phases of the game in a way. But if you're completely new, then Patrick Wolff's Complete idiot's guide to chess is a great place to start.

 It's not easy to say where to start as it is based on your current level or where to go if you're seasoned, but fear not! There are many great articles on the internet that can point you in the right direction! :D