learning openings do this

Learning Openings? Do this!

In a previous post, I outlined the three major challenges that typically hinder average chess players from excelling in opening play. Quick recap, those are: Clarity: Which opening should you…

most players doing it wrong

Most players doing it wrong!

Do you know that over 70% of club players consider studying openings as ‘very important‘? They spend on average 3-5 hours per week learning openings… And yet they improve by…

how to beat french defense with 3 nd2

How to Beat French Defense with 3.Nd2

The French Defense has become a popular choice of late among Grandmasters and club players. This opening affords great scope for imagination and creativity from both sides. White has numerous…

chess openings for beginners with gm marian petrov tcw academy

Chess Openings for Beginners with GM Marian Petrov [TCW Academy]

Let GM Marian Petrov guide you through this initial phase with his new course, “Chess Openings for Beginners,” and quickly gain confidence in every new game you play! Ever felt…

queens gambit declined explained complete guide for black

Queen’s Gambit Declined Explained: Complete Guide for Black

Queen’s Gambit Declined (QGD) is a timeless opening. Every world champion from Steinitz to Ding Liren has played this opening. This should tell us volumes about the depth and rich…

modern defense complete guide for black

Modern Defense: Complete Guide for Black

Modern Defense seeks to fight on its terms because it unbalances the battlefield. The pieces march on to their locations before launching an offensive in the center. This can lead…

alfreds double

Alfred’s Double

I’ve recently been researching the Leicester player Alfred Lenton, who shared 3rd place and 2nd place in the 1935 and 1936 British Championships. At the time he was an avid…

busch gass gambit

Busch-Gass Gambit

The other day one of my clubmates asked me about the Busch-Gass Gambit, which, I must admit, was a new one on me. There are a few videos around so…

opening selection

Opening Selection

If you had a friend – or a pupil – who was just starting to play competitive chess, what openings would you advise them to play? To the best of…

top 5 opening systems you must know

Top 5 Opening Systems You Must Know

Chess openings are akin to the initial strokes on a canvas, setting the stage for intricate struggles that unfold as the game progresses. Each system beckons players to embrace their…