5 Laws of Positional Play

Positional comprehension is the ability to quickly assess a position and the ability to draw up a plan. This is how a chess player determines when to defend and when to attack, when to exchange and when to take your time.

Rule 1.

In chess, the attacking side always wins. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule. But as practice shows, a passive player can only win if the attacker makes a gross mistake or loses time.

Rule 2.

A chess player should only attack if his position is better. If the position is worse, then any attempts to attack will cost dearly if the opponent responds correctly.
Therefore, you first need to improve your position, and only then attack.
But if you have an undeniably excellent position, then you should immediately attack.
Otherwise, sooner or later your opponent will gain strength and seize the initiative.

Rule 3.

When you defend yourself, try to maintain a stable position. Remember, your main goal is to start a counterattack.
However, if you start it too early or, conversely, too late, you will lose. It is important not to miss the right moment here.

Rule 4.

There are two types of games in chess:

1. Tactical and Combination - in the game there is an interaction between the figures of both players, various threats and sharp options are realized.

2. Strategy and Maneuvering - in such games there is no direct contact between the pieces. As a rule, there are more maneuvers here than sharp options or some well-timed tactical strikes.

Which option is right for you?
There is no direct answer to this question. The nature of the game is determined by the type of position and personal preference of the player.

Rule 5.

An advantage can consist of one large indivisible advantage (for example, an extra piece) or a number of small advantages (for example, a backward pawn of the opponent).

• The task of the leading positional battle is to accumulate small advantages and strive to turn temporary advantages into permanent ones.

It makes sense to attack the opponent in the weakest point of his position. It may sound corny, but many players ignore this simple rule, and as a result, they cannot win.

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Thanks for reading. I hope you enjoyed it :)
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