Do you need math to play chess?

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Threirp

Do you think that math is important in chess?

borovicka75
No. Kasparov did not like chess and he was probably GOAT.
borovicka75
Kasparov did not like MATH. I cannot write.
Clockwork_Nemesis
no
basketstorm

You still need basic math. Like subtract and add within 8. Distinguish odd and even numbers. Quickly map letters to numbers and back (a=1, b=2 etc) idk if that can be called math but that's still dealing with numbers. You also need to understand basic operations with time and also how to count moves (to use 50-move rule for example).

BeckettHill1

While you don't need advanced math to play chess, basic math skills can be helpful. For example, understanding patterns, counting moves, and evaluating the number of pieces or squares on the board can involve simple arithmetic. Strategic thinking in chess often requires logic, pattern recognition, and planning ahead—skills that are related to math but not necessarily dependent on complex calculations. So, while math isn't a strict requirement, it can complement your chess skills. As a high school student struggling with Physics homework, I found https://academized.com/do-my-homework to be incredibly helpful. They provided a detailed and accurate solution that was easy to understand. The delivery was prompt, and the service was professional. Their help boosted my confidence and improved my grades significantly. I highly recommend them for any homework help!

OutOfCheese

People often confuse maths with number calculations (because that's what schools sell as "maths").

Mathematics is the discipline of describing problems in an abstract unambiguous language to help solve them. So real mathematics could help you to some degree with thinking about chess if you got the knack for it, but it certainly isn't required to play chess.

thebestguyatbeing

You do to calculate the points in pieces

ClickandMove

No. Skills are pretty narrow than what people perceive. Humans are learning machines. You will improve only on things that you learned.

Leftehnuhnt-Lmao

yes, for when you are solving “mate in 3” puzzles and such.

4 moves or more would be too long and 2 or less is too short.

borovicka75

Agreed