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directions. Second, limit the amount of pawns you have braced head on against your opponent's pawns with both of you having nowhere to go. This orientation can be useful in preventing them from getting promotions, but it limits you in the same regard and can also limit your move options if it comes down to the wire. Finally, generally try to move different types and/or groups of pieces into different directions instead of all to one area. This will ensure reasonable traffic flow and usually prevent stalemate from occurring.

12. Don't panic! OK, you make a mistake and, say, lose your queen with no recourse for immediate revenge. Yes that's bad, but no it's not already the end of the game... unless you've already lost many other power pieces and taken very few in return, in which case you're likely fighting a losing battle. Nevertheless, play it out and fight more fiercely to the very finish. You never know what kind of comeback you can make if you don't try. When you make a mistake, first and foremost look at how you can prevent further damage: protect any pieces that need protection immediately if possible. Secondly, see if you can drive back the piece that captured yours. Finally, start thinking about how you can do without the piece that got taken (or how you can possibly replace it through promotion - though it's usually not wise to bet the house on winning via promoting a pawn).

13. Have fun and keep playing! Even if you're new to chess and you're not very good, the only way to learn is to keep playing and trying out new strategies. Find out what works for you, but develop as many strategies as you can so you don't get entirely predictable. Play against people who are of similar skill level to you or someone who is advanced but will play friendly with you. Playing friendly includes giving you tips or head-ups along the way (e.g. "are you sure you want to do that?"), and explaining (not simply bragging) why they make the moves they make. They will basically be trying to teach you along the way instead of merely seeking to win (though that doesn't necessarily mean they'll go altogether easy on you either). A good player of this type may even try to match their skill to yours and play more rough as you seem to be getting more competent and confident. If you find you're learning to stand your ground and maybe launching some good offenses against them, you may very well be getting the hang of the game! Just remember to watch out for traps and use strategy and all the tips in this guide (plus any others as there are many elements in the game of chess) to keep you at the top of your game.

Good luck and have fun!

Learn more about this author, Jeremy Jameson.
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