How to calculate
without moving a piece.
A method strong players use before every critical move, in four steps.
8×
Missed tactics lose at least eight times as many games as openings.Calculation is how you stop them. How we measured
- <1200
- 1200
- 1500
- 1800
- 2100+
Chess calculation in 4 steps
1Is there a tactic?
Loose pieces, an open king, a piece with too many jobs.
2List forcing moves
Checks, captures and threats. They limit the replies.
3Calculate each one
Play each one out against their best reply.
4Evaluate the end
Count material, check the kings, pick the best end.
Six rules that keep a line honest
- 1
Forcing moves first
Checks and captures leave them few answers, so the line stays short.
- 2
Their best reply
Answer every move with their most forcing reply, not the one you hope for.
- 3
Stop when it goes quiet
No checks, captures or threats left? Only then is the line over.
- 4
Hold the board
A piece that moved no longer guards the square it left.
- 5
Compare before you choose
Calculate every candidate before you pick one.
- 6
Blunder-check your move
Before you play it: what are their checks, captures and threats?
Three candidates, one move
Which one wins? Pick a move, or play it on the board.
Questions
How deep should I calculate?
As far as the forcing moves go.Most are 1–2 moves deep.
How do I calculate faster?
Know the patterns, and train holding the board in your head.
Is calculation a talent?
No, it’s a skill.A little practice every day builds it.
Train it the way you’ll use it
60 of every 100 lost games are a missed tactic.Free to start, no card needed.
Start free