Goals

Technique Create an imbalance in the position (different advantages and disadvantages for each player). Then develop pieces to capitalize on advantages and limit opponent’s advantages. Castling Protects king. Activates rook, especially if center file is semi-open or open. Castle if center is opened. Castle before attacking opponent’s king. Can delay or forgo castling if center is closed or if queens are exchanged early. Development Bring all the pieces into play. Avoid moving the same piece more than once, if possible. Maximize the mobility (number of legal moves) of each piece. Do not bring the queen past the second or third… Continue Reading