Themes
Each number is a game; it opens the move where he explains the idea. Open a theme to read what it is about.
General
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01030506101112141518192223
Make one move do two jobs
When a task can be done in a way that also does something else, do it that way. Do not tie a piece to one job if another can do it and keep working.
Opening
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01050810
The opening is chosen for what it teaches
An opening can be chosen for what it teaches, such as closed positions or a structure you need practice in, not only for an advantage.
Pawn structure
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0405071417
A pawn move leaves a hole you cannot fill
A pawn cannot move backwards. Before advancing it, ask which square it stops guarding for good.
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04
Hanging pawns cut both ways
Two pawns side by side with no neighbours are strong while they stand together and weak once they can be attacked; when one falls, the other usually follows.
Piece play
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02030423
Restrict the bishop, or pay to remove it
A strong bishop has to be dealt with: take away its best square, shut it in behind pawns, or pay something to trade it off.
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03041024
Identify the one piece that matters
Work out which single piece the position runs on, and be willing to pay to remove it, or to keep it.
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040512
A piece can be given the job of defending
Not every piece has to be active. One that stays home holding the position can be doing the most important job on the board.
Strategy
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010205
One square decides the game
Some games are organised around one square. Name it early, and let the fight for it decide most moves.
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020304071524
Spend a move to make the natural move work
When the natural move is one quiet move away from working, play the quiet move first.
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05
Let the other side commit first
Make the moves you would make anyway, keep the optional ones in reserve, and let the opponent make the decision you would rather not.
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05
Closed positions run on a different clock
In a closed position there is time for long manoeuvres, as long as the opponent cannot open it while you are away.