Chess is a lifelong learning experience — whether you’re just starting or already competing at a high level, there’s always room to grow and refine your skills. Are you looking to improve beyond just playing more games? Keep reading our 19 practical and effective chess strategies that players at any stage or skill level can use.
1. Don’t move the same piece twice early on—unless there’s a solid reason
You’ll waste time repeating moves with the same piece. Instead, use those early turns to bring new pieces into play and build a stronger position.
2. Use your pawns early on
Control the center with your pawns during the opening, then develop your knights, followed by bishops. Once that structure is in place, consider castling or moving your rook. Leave the queen’s move for last.
3. Avoid taking early pawn sacrifices
While it’s tempting to take a free pawn in the opening, it could leave your king exposed.
4. Take control of the center as early as possible
You can gain more control of the center using central pawns. This will give you more freedom while limiting your opponent’s actions.
5. Hold off on moving your queen too soon
Moving your queen out too soon makes it an early target. It’s better to focus on your knights and bishops first to protect the queen and reinforce your position.
6. Think twice before moving a pawn
Since pawns can’t move backward, every advance should support a broader plan.
7. Sometimes, it’s okay to give up a pawn
If a pawn sacrifice helps you build momentum or launch an attack, it may be a worthwhile trade. It’s a strategic choice, not a giveaway.
8. Trade pieces when you’re ahead
If you’ve gained a material lead — like an extra minor piece — look for opportunities to
simplify the position. This can help convert your advantage into a win.
9. Use trades to adjust space dynamics
If you have more space, keep pieces on the board to maximize that edge. If your opponent
controls more space, trading pieces can level the playing field.
10. Swap weaker pieces for stronger ones
Improve your position by trading off your inactive or poorly placed pieces for your opponent’s stronger ones. Repeat this strategy, and the quality of your overall position will improve.
11. Always play with a plan
Even if your plan isn’t perfect, having one is better than moving aimlessly.
12. When unsure, keep the bishop
Usually, bishops hold more long-term value than knights. So, it’s better to favor them unless there’s a specific tactical reason not to.
13. Understand when to use knights
Open positions with plenty of space are good for Bishops. However, knights can be more effective in cramped positions that are full of pawns, thanks to their ability to jump over obstacles.
14. Place your rooks on open or semi-open files
Rooks are most powerful when they control clear lines across the board. They can support other pieces that way and apply pressure where it matters.
15. Place the knights toward the center and the bishops along the sides
Knights can control more space in central squares for a more effective play. Bishops, on the other hand, do better along long diagonals, often from the edges of the board.
16. Keep both bishops when you can
Having both bishops gives you strong control of the board because they cover opposite
colors. Plus, they can apply pressure across long diagonals, making it hard for your
opponent to defend against every threat.
17. Two rooks usually outmatch a queen
When paired, rooks can protect one another and launch coordinated attacks. A queen may be powerful on her own, but she usually can’t handle two rooks working together, especially when they support each other.
18. Avoid piece trades when you’re down a pawn in the endgame
If you’re behind by a pawn in a simplified position, try to keep more pieces on the board. Swapping them off may land you in a basic king-and-pawn endgame—one that’s much harder to save.
19. Double your rooks
Stacking both rooks on the same file gives you more control and makes your attack harder to stop.
Ready to take your skills further? Try a free online lesson with IchessU and learn from expert coaches who tailor lessons to your goals and level. Whether you’re just starting or looking to sharpen your chess strategies, we’ve got a format that fits — private or group.
Call 1-800-342-0645 or visit our site to chat with a live chess expert and schedule your first session.
