20 October, 2016

Lesson #3: Opening Principles

In this lesson we review the value of the pieces from the previous lesson, and continue Vincent's advice on opening principles. We explore why 1.e4 (moving the king's pawn forward two squares) is a strong move by counting how many possibilities it opens up for a second move, compared to other initial moves. Castling is covered since the king safety it provides is crucial for most openings. And finally we cover the scholar's mate.

Here are three points to keep in mind and use on your homework and future games:

  • Think of the first moves as a race with your opponent to wake up, or develop, sleeping pieces and castle. 
  • Choose moves that develop with a threat, when possible, and try to not give your opponent the opportunity to do the same. 
  • Beware the scholar’s mate or crazy queens. 
Get the beginner homework at Basic Basic Opening Principles. And yes I messed up on puzzle #5 :).

For the advanced students we cover the common king pawn endings and the interplay between the opposing kings called opposition.

Get the advance homework at King Pawn Endings.

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