Priorities when calculating variations

Fortunately there are no absolute rules in chess, nor any perfect algorithm for the calculation of variations. Situations at the board can vary enormously and there are of course different ways of coming to a conclusion. This mental flexibility is the greatest advantage we have as human beings and I see no reason why we should do without it. Naturally, the following three ideas cannot be applied universally.

1) The most active moves also have the highest priority rating. Perhaps we will not even need to calculate other variations at all if, for example, we find a forced mate or a forced win. Then, of course, we will save time and strength. But such forcing lines require to be calculated exactly. This method of considering first of all the strongest (most active) move is very valuable in attacking situations.

2) If you do not find a good solution, you should either look for new candidate moves or lower your expectations of what can be achieved in the position and go for clearly more modest goals.

3) The variations you calculate must come to a conclusion with an evaluation. The position can only be evaluated when either you or your opponent have no active moves left.

Nice tips👍