beginner
Chess 101
Understanding the Elo Rating System in Chess
If you’ve ever played chess online or followed professional tournaments, you’ve probably seen those mysterious numbers next to players’ names—something...
Openings
Scholar’s Mate: The Best Opening for Beginners, Approved by Magnus Carlsen
In chess, most games last dozens of moves. But sometimes, if your opponent isn’t careful, you can win in just...
Openings
Caro–Kann Defense: Complete Guide with Key Lines for Both White and Black
The Caro–Kann Defense (1.e4 c6) is one of chess’s most respected shields against 1.e4. Favored by world champions from Capablanca...
Chess 101
USCF Chess Ratings Explained: How to Gain (or Lose) Points in Every Game
If you’ve played chess in the United States, you’ve probably heard of the USCF rating. It’s a number that shows...
Openings
Tired of 1…e5? 8 Semi-Open Defenses That Deserve More Respect
Surprise your opponents, avoid heavy theory, and rediscover offbeat defenses like Alekhine’s, the Pirc, and even the St. George. It...
Chess 101
Who Goes First in Chess – Why It Always Starts This Way?
If you’ve ever watched a chess game, you may have noticed something consistent: one player always moves first. But who...
Endgame
Master the Square Rule: The Simplest Endgame Trick in Chess
King and pawn endgames often feel like walking on a tightrope. One small misstep, a slow move, a missed tempo,...
Chess 101
Queenside Castling in Chess: Riskier, Bolder, and Full of Potential
When most players learn to castle, they naturally gravitate toward the kingside. It feels safer, faster, and more familiar. But...
Chess 101
Castling in Chess: What It Is and How It Works
Castling is one of the most unique and important moves in chess. It’s the only move where two pieces—your king...
Chess 101
Can You Castle When in Check? A Clear Guide to Chess’s Most Misunderstood Rule
Short Answer: No, you cannot castle while your king is in check.Let’s break that down and cover the other castling...
