Ideas, Openings & Improvement

Your first tournament is exciting and nerve-wracking. Here is everything you need to know to be prepared.

Most players just check for blunders. Here is how to actually learn from engine analysis.

Online chess courses range from free to hundreds of pounds. Here are the ones actually worth your time.

The right engine makes your analysis 10x more productive. Here are the best engines and how to use them.

Puzzle books are the most efficient way to improve tactics. Here are the best for every level.

Free chess education is better than ever. Here are the best channels and streamers for every level.

A good chess coach accelerates your improvement dramatically. Here is how to find the right one.

Studies show modest positive effects of chess on maths and reading, especially in younger children.

Most experts recommend starting chess between ages 5-7. But it is never too late. Here is the research.

Research shows chess improves memory, problem-solving, and cognitive function. Here is what the science actually says.

A norm is a strong tournament performance. You need 3 norms (plus the right rating) for IM and GM titles.

The "master" threshold is 2200 FIDE. But different federations have different standards.