How to Balance Time in Chess

How to Balance Time in Chess

Step 1: Use the Formula: d = t x 3 / 4, where t is the time control used in the game.

Step 2: Use the Formula: c = d / 4, a = d + c and b = d - c

Step 3: Wait for your clock time at d

Step 4: If your opponent's time is greater than a, play offensively and try to win by checkmate. If opponent's time is less than b, play defensively and try to win by timeout.

Example:

Rapid 10|0

d = 10 x 3 / 4 = 7.5 mins or 7 mins and 30 secs

c = 7.5 / 4 = 1.875 mins or 1 mins and 53 secs

a = 7.5 + 1.875 = 9.375 mins or 9 mins and 23 secs

b = 7.5 - 1.875 = 5.625 mins or 5 mins and 37 secs

Play at your own pace until your time goes down to d which is 7 mins and 30 secs

If your opponent's time is greater than a which is 9 mins and 23 secs, play offensively and try to win by checkmate. If your opponent's time is less than b which is 5 mins and 37 secs, play defensively and try to win by timeout.