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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The method of comparison, in both directions
A move is right or wrong for a reason. Compare it with a position where it was the other way round, and the reason shows.
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Compare the captures, do not take the flashy one
With more than one way to capture, compare where each leaves the pieces. The flashy one, a fork or a check, is often not the best.
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Ask what he is actually threatening
Before defending, ask whether the threat is real and what exactly it threatens. Often the answer is less than it looks.
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Be obsessed with undefended pieces
Make it a habit to notice every undefended piece, yours and his, and to count the defenders of every piece that is under attack.
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Releasing the tension hands something over
Releasing tension feels clear, but it often hands the opponent a square or the centre for nothing. Keep it until the release gains something.
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09
When the main idea is stopped, the position is not
When your plan is stopped, the position is not lost. Look again for another way to the same goal.
Opening
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08
A trap is a bet on the opponent's reflex
A trap only works if the opponent plays the automatic move. Prefer a sound line to one that depends on him not knowing.
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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.
Strategy
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09
Work back from the wish list
Start from the outcome you want and work backwards, removing whatever stands in its way one step at a time.
Tactics
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Remove the defender
Before taking, ask what is holding the target together, and take that first.
Endgame
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09
An endgame does not rescue an undeveloped position
Trading queens does not save an undeveloped position. Without pieces out, there is nothing to stop what the opponent does next.