Stuck between 900–1500 rating? I’m a Woman Grandmaster and I help players understand how strong players actually think during a game.

Hello, I’m Yanira Vigoa, Woman Grandmaster (WGM) and professional chess coach.

Chess has been part of my life since childhood. I have over 20 years of experience competing and teaching, and I achieved the Woman Grandmaster title in 2011.

Over the years I have worked with many students of different levels, including players from American schools and adults who want to improve their understanding of the game.

But the most important thing I teach is not just openings or tactics.

Most players study a lot, watch videos, and play many games — yet they remain stuck at the same rating for years.

The real reason is simple:
they never learn how to think during a position.

In my lessons we focus on developing that skill.

What we work on in training

• Understanding the key ideas behind each position
• Improving calculation and decision-making
• Knowing when to attack, simplify, or change pieces
• Avoiding the typical mistakes that decide many games
• Learning practical plans in openings, middlegames and endgames

Many students improve faster because we analyze their own games, which is where real progress happens.

Training options

Private lessons

One-on-one sessions focused on your games, your strengths, and the areas that will improve your chess the most.

Small improvement groups (900–1400 rating)

Weekly sessions where we study practical positions, common mistakes, and decision-making in real games.
Small groups allow players to learn together in a structured and motivating environment.

Game analysis

Detailed review of your games with explanations of critical moments and practical ideas you can apply immediately.

Who my coaching is for

Players who want to:

• break through a rating plateau
• understand positions better
• think more confidently during their games
• enjoy chess while improving.

ChessVigoa