I am a complete beginner - I know how each piece moves, as well as the main rules. I've also started watching some videos and doing some puzzles and playing against some bots. However, I want to start playing against real players. Before I get stuck in to this, what would people recommend as a good time control to start out with? 60 minutes seems like it'll be too long, as that's up to 2 hours per game., and I don't think I can dedicate that much time in one block on a regular basis. So would something like 10 minutes be better?
Next question, should I use increments? Or is that just adding unnecessary complication at this stage?
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You have the right idea: use time controls of minimum 10|0 as you start out. This gives you time to actually think through positions. If you are up for it, you can even do 15|10 for a decently slow game.
Personally, I would recommend 10|5 because the increment makes the games last just a little bit longer relieving some time pressure. Also, increment time controls help tremendously for the endgame (if it goes that far).
I am a complete beginner - I know how each piece moves, as well as the main rules. I've also started watching some videos and doing some puzzles and playing against some bots. However, I want to start playing against real players. Before I get stuck in to this, what would people recommend as a good time control to start out with? 60 minutes seems like it'll be too long, as that's up to 2 hours per game., and I don't think I can dedicate that much time in one block on a regular basis. So would something like 10 minutes be better?
Next question, should I use increments? Or is that just adding unnecessary complication at this stage?
Finally, according to the Time Controls page, a rapid game is longer than 10 minutes, but it also says that a Blitz game can be up to 10 minutes. So if I start a 10 minute game, will that count as a Rapid or Blitz game (i.e. which rating will it affect)?
Thanks.