Why the "checks, captures and threats" technique don't work.

The average advice to improve tactics is to see a position and look for forcing moves: checks, captures and threats.

This system does not work all the time and is incomplete. Here's why:

1. It only works if you realize there's a tactic

Thinking about forcing moves, such as checks, captures, and threats, is helpful when creating a mental list of possible moves or ideas to solve the position or puzzle.

However, it's only effective if you've realized your position in front of you hides a tactic.

Most people's problem is not solving puzzles but finding tactics in positions that look "normal."

The checks, capture, and threats model helps you solve the problem ONLY if you know there's a tactic. If you are not aware, you won't use that model, and you'll miss many chances.

2. I'ts not practical

A solution to the first problem could be to consider forcing moves: checks, captures & threats all the time, move by move.

But that's not efficient.

You can't think like that the whole game. In chess, you must make practical decisions that don't require too much calculation because you must manage your time properly.

Thinking about forcing moves will always lead you to lose a lot of time on the clock. And you know how much it sucks to lose a winning game due to being low on time.

What's the solution?

To improve your tactics, learn how stronger players find tactics and execute them.

In other words, learn how a 2000-rated think and play chess.

At that level, you are fully aware of when you can make practical decisions and when a position is critical so you can think about forcing moves.

Your timing is better at that level, and your moves and thought process are clearer.

So stop listening to the average advice and start learning how to think better.