King and Queen vs. King Checkmate
This is the first checkmate every beginner should master. King + Queen vs. King is easy to win, but careless play can result in stalemate. Here is the correct technique.
The technique
The method is straightforward: use the queen to restrict the enemy king to the edge of the board, then bring your king up to support checkmate. The queen alone cannot force checkmate, you need your king's help.
- Use the queen to create a "barrier", cutting off the enemy king's escape routes.
- Move your king toward the opponent's king.
- Push the enemy king to the edge of the board.
- Deliver checkmate with the queen supported by the king.
Avoiding stalemate
The biggest danger is accidentally stalemating. When the enemy king reaches the corner, do not place your queen too close. Always ensure the king has at least one legal move until you deliver checkmate. A common stalemate mistake:
Practice this
Set up a position with your king and queen against a lone king. Practice delivering checkmate in under 10 moves. On our Play AI, you can practice this endgame at low difficulty. Once you can do it effortlessly, you'll never lose a won queen endgame.