I think chess requires a niche cognitive ability to manipulate a special kind of data under special constraints.

My experience is that some people can naturally manipulate chess data easily, remember move sequences easily, and grow their playing strength. Most people won’t ever manipulate the data as easily and have a low ceiling on how much they can improve no matter how many books they buy, tactics they practice, or principles of the game they learn to follow. That’s a fact we need to accept and make peace with.

I was born into the second category and have resigned myself to enjoying the process of learning despite a low natural ceiling.

Best of luck and respect to everyone here who is making a sincere effort.

spivaj