Is it better to play 10 min or 20 min rapid as a beginner?

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imp10x

I started playing chess about 1 month ago. In the first few weeks, I primarily focused on solving puzzles to acquaint myself with the game and learn basic mating patterns. I was able to reach a puzzle rating of 2000.

Recently, I began playing rapid games. Unfortunately, I lost my very first 10 min rapid game due to time pressure and suboptimal moves. Subsequently, I played a second 20 min rapid game and managed to secure a victory. Now, I'm contemplating whether to continue playing 20 min rapid games to allow for more thoughtful consideration of my moves or switch to 10 min rapid games to accumulate more experience by playing more games in a day.

I would also appreciate general tips happy.png

bigD521

minimum - either 15/10 if you do not mind knowing how long the game will last (also helps avoid time trouble ), or 20 min.

vencatharsis
When i first started i would only do 1 hour games, otherwise i would lose on time. Now i find 30 min is optimal to think during mid game.

I guess this is very slow but i managed to improve that way :)
1Lindamea1
30 mins rapid is the best. Before every move look for all of your checks, captures and attacks, and after considering a move look for checks, captures and attacks for your opponent. As the time goes on you will get faster and faster at this technique, and maybe lower the time setting to a 15/10 or 10 mins. Also you could learn an opening to blitz out first 10 moves and save yourself even more time. Time is the deciding factor in chess
BishopBattler99

yes 30 in 30 minutes you have mANY TIME TO THINL

RussBell

Improving Your Chess - Resources for Beginners and Beyond...

see the section - 'Play Longer Time Controls' near the end of the article...

https://www.chess.com/blog/RussBell/improving-your-chess-resources-for-beginners-and-beyond

https://www.chess.com/blog/RussBell

ChessMasteryOfficial

Longer time controls, like 20 minutes, give you more time to think through your moves, calculate variations, and formulate plans. This can be particularly beneficial for improving your understanding of positions.

Improving at chess can be quite challenging, but there are various ways to enhance your skills.

For those looking to improve without coaching, here's some valuable advice:

1. Play Frequently: The more you play, the better you'll become at recognizing patterns and making strategic decisions.
2. Analyze Your Games: Review your past games to identify mistakes and areas where you can improve. This self-analysis is a powerful learning tool.
3. Focus on Tactics: Tactics play a crucial role in chess. Spend time solving tactical puzzles and exercises to sharpen your tactical skills.
4. Learn from Masters: Studying grandmaster games can provide insights into advanced strategies and tactics.

Feel free to check out this article for more in-depth advice: https://www.gautamnarula.com/how-to-get-good-at-chess-fast

Additionally, I have a YouTube series where I share chess insights and strategies, which you might find helpful: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLUrgfsyInqNa1S4i8DsGJwzx1Uhn2AqlT

Best of luck with your chess journey! If you'd like more personalized guidance or coaching, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. I offer one-on-one coaching sessions where we can dive deeper into your specific needs.

ArexGaming123
If you are a slow player, then 20 mins is preferred. But if you are trying to play faster,then you can always play 10 mins as a beginner
MedT11

20min is too much. Go for 15min.

Radioactive7

30 minute

KeSetoKaiba

The exact time control will depend on the player and what you are comfortable with. Feeling rushed in a single 10 min game doesn't really mean much to me because one game is such a low sample size, but if you generally feel rushed in 10 min time control, then I recommend you play 20 min time control games.

The goal is for you to feel comfortable while still having some extra thinking time if you want it. This is one reason longer time controls are generally preferred.

satan_llama

I fear that you won't find 20min matchups so easily.15+10 is still the best in my opinion.

medelpad

varies from person to person

DageTheChampion

I suggest playing 10 min games. It will train you to make moves efficiently. Losing on time is rare for beginners so it will also help you practice your chess tactics.

simonfromaz

I like 30m

HalivPopotk

20-30 minutes or daily chess

Sachac1k

Longer games, better learning opportunity. If you are trying to improve that is.

After reading your thoughts.. Yes. It is better to play slower and even lose on time. As long as you give long enough consideration of your moves. It is good to arm yourself with ideas and come stronger the next time.

Don't use engines whilst analysing your games.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7Q0Z6FW1jk

check what I wrote under my video. Some of those tips could come handy wink.png

dfgh123

You have to make your own mind up, I hate fast controls because you can't really think, but I still play them

Sachac1k

Fast controls can be played. But if OP wants to learn, he would need to analyse his games and spend time on certain key positions.

Playing blitz/bullet often contributes to bad habits. Sometimes even Rapid could be bad happy.png

dfgh123
Sachac1k wrote:

Fast controls can be played. But if OP wants to learn, he would need to analyse his games and spend time on certain key positions.

Playing blitz/bullet often contributes to bad habits. Sometimes even Rapid could be bad

I played daily chess from day one but also 10 minute chess as well to gain some experience, I reached 2000 daily which was my goal,

would I have reached 2000 daily chess without 10 minute chess? I don't know tbh