NM Hou Ji Yao

Hello everyone, I am Houji and welcome to my page. I have been playing chess since I was young, but I only really taken it to the next level sometime in college, where I went from 1800 to 2000, to NM shortly after graduation. I progressed mostly through self-learning and studying with like-minded peers. I started coaching casually since the pandemic and am looking to get more involved in mentorship.

Reached 2000 in 2015
Reached NM in 2019

1 win vs GM
1 draw vs IM

Teaching since 2021 from absolute beginners to intermediate players.
If you are a beginner looking for somewhere to start, or are a club player looking to take it to the next level, you've come to the right place. Together, we can look at game analysis, openings, tactics, endgames and whatever practical advice you need to be successful.

To show your interest, please fill out this google form: forms.gle/aueCcfeehA6fjo4D8

I will follow up with you to discuss rates, usually in CAD or USD. Here is a preview of my 2 week calendar: calendly.com/houjiyao-chess/30min

Game analysis, thinking beyond the most obvious move.

I believe in a good balance between theory and practice. Theory sets up the structure, but practice makes perfect. In addition to puzzles and homework I encourage students to build a highlight reel to see where they have unleashed concepts and had them used against them.