FAQ about the rating system
Frequently asked questions about the rating system
As a chess coach or a chess player you have probably heard many of these questions. Some of them might sound simple, but it's always a good idea to be sure about these concepts.
1.Question: Can I lose points if I play against an unrated player?
Answer: No, if you are rated and your opponent is unrated, you can't lose points.
- Q: I am unrated, if I win against a rated player do I get a rating?
A: No, if you want to have a rating you have to play more than one game against a rated player. How many? It depends on the kind of rating, but between 5 for slow games and 9 for rapid or blitz games.
- Q: Can I lose rating points if I win a game?
A: No, if you win you'll always win rating points and if you lose you'll always lose rating points.
- Q: Can I win rating points if I lose a game?
A: No, same as above. Win game -> win points. Lose game -> lose points
- Q: Is there a minimum or maximum rating?
A: There is a minimum rating, 1000, but there is no maximum rating. As long as you keep winning games your rating will keep going up.
- Q: What would happen if I drop below the minimum rating?
A: If you drop below 1000 rating, you would lose your rating. But don't be worried, if you could get a rating once, I'm sure you can get it back again and even higher than before!
- Q: If I have only one type of rating (standard, rapid or blitz) do I have the same rating when playing the other ones?
A: If you have standard games rating and you play rapid or blitz, the first time your rating will be the same as for standard games. However, if you have rapid or blitz rating, it will only be valid for playing that type of chess, not for standard games.
- Q: How many points can I win in a month? Is there a limit?
A: There used to be limits but they have been removed, so nothing stops you from being world's #1, do you accept the callenge? - Q: How many points can I win or lose in one game?
A: It depends on your rating, your opponent's rating and your coefficient (read the previous article to learn about them). Usually, for young players the limit is 36.8 points! in just one game.
- Q: If I don't show up for a game, do I lose rating?
A: We should try to never forfeit a game. Every game is a new opportunity to be a better player, no matter how the tournament is going overall. Just in case you really have to miss a game... you will not lose rating. Only played games count for rating.
