If you are completely new to chess, learn the basic endgames. First how to checkmate with a queen, with two rooks, with one rook, and also the most basic K+P endgames. Once you've done that, try your hand at some basic tactics problems. Don't worry about openings yet.
New to Chess - Where to start?
Sort:
Try to work on tactics a lot. Best of luck!
I agree it's good to learn basic mates and tactics, but don't be afraid to just start playing. Yes, you will probably lose a lot at first, but understand that everyone goes through that. Every Grandmaster was once a beginner! Try to find people to play who are at about the same level as you or slightly better, so you have a fighting chance, as this will help keep you interested.
Also, if you haven't already done so, I'd recommend reading a good, basic introduction to the game. Grandmaster Yasser Seirawan wrote one called, Play Winning Chess that is fantastic, but of course there are others. Most imortantly, have fun! Chess is a great game.
Here's a nice gentle introduction to all phases of the game. If you can "get" what is in these courses, you will no longer be a beginner. They're well written and well worth going over again and again.
http://www.chess.com/blog/webmaster/free-chess-mentor-courses
Don't forget to have fun!
dpnorman wrote:
If you are completely new to chess, learn the basic endgames. First how to checkmate with a queen, with two rooks, with one rook, and also the most basic K+P endgames. Once you've done that, try your hand at some basic tactics problems. Don't worry about openings yet.
Yeah if he makes it to an endgame.
Just play, play and play then turn to the theory.
@amilton542 If he knows the basic endgames then he can know what is winning and what is not. And no, he obviously shouldn't look at opening theory until he is well over 1000.
I think someone starting chess should just do nothing but play to start with. Just get a feel for the game then when they decide they're serious about it turn to theory.
It's just wrong to spend any significant amount of time on opening theory until at least 1300. Factly, it can slow down your progress.
Hello sp628
Go to chesscademy.com to learn chess from Beginner level to Advance for FREE. In my experience it is the best free chess learning site ever.
i think really when people start, its just all about being exposed to the game as much as possible - find people who are better than you and watch them play, play yourself, and pick up simple lessons like simple endgames, simple strategies like putting rooks on files (and opening them if you can), etc. - but just enjoy the game, over time you can figure out where you need help with more detail - make sure to keep it fun and dont make it like school, otherwise i think you can burn out, should be fun first
everyone who gets better spends a ton of time with the game, and forgives themselves with losses (while expecting consistent improvement from the lessons that come from those losses)
Hi all, I'm Scott and I'm new to chess. What's the best way to start learning the game? Are the puzzles too advanced for just starting?
I'd appreciate any guidance.
Thank you!