The "10 Most Common Chess Mistakes" book by GM Larry Evans is a great book that offers exceptional fundamental explanations as to why players make the mistakes they do. The first few chapters are geared towards beginner to intermediate players. But as it continues, the later chapters can provide insights to even seasoned tournament players. For those of you who are don't feel like reading the whole book, here is my quick take on each of his points:
Mistakes in order:
1) Bad Development - Develop to control the center. Try to find ways to put pressure on your opponent.
2) Neglecting the King - Make sure to castle quickly, and keep your eyes peeled for attacks against your king.
3) MisJudging Threats - Whenever your opponent makes a move, ask why he made that move? Then continue with your plan.
4) Ignoring Pins - Always be aware of pins, and make a general plan on how you want to deal with them.
5) Premature Aggression - Don't always try to attack. Understand the plan of the position, and play towards that.
6) Miscalculation - Especially in slower time controls, always double check your calculations.
7) Impulsiveness - Lasker said it best, "If you see a good move, look for a better one"
8) Pawn Snatching - If taking a pawn means your opponent can put a lot of pressure on you, it probably is not worth it. Calculate.
9) Creating Weaknesses - Make sure the move you are making is not going to create weaknesses in your position.
10) Inattention - Stay sharp and focused. Don't autopilot.
11) Anatomy of an Error - Set up good study habits and always maintain a positive attitude.
Chess is a game of research and practice. Although I have provided you with the simplifications of his points (the research), I have not provided you with opportunities to practice what you have learned. The book does an excellent job with this, providing various case studies from grandmaster games and a seasoned grandmaster's take on the common mistakes amateurs make.
If you are interested in receiving a free copy of this book, send me a private message.
Mistakes in order:
1) Bad Development - Develop to control the center. Try to find ways to put pressure on your opponent.
2) Neglecting the King - Make sure to castle quickly, and keep your eyes peeled for attacks against your king.
3) MisJudging Threats - Whenever your opponent makes a move, ask why he made that move? Then continue with your plan.
4) Ignoring Pins - Always be aware of pins, and make a general plan on how you want to deal with them.
5) Premature Aggression - Don't always try to attack. Understand the plan of the position, and play towards that.
6) Miscalculation - Especially in slower time controls, always double check your calculations.
7) Impulsiveness - Lasker said it best, "If you see a good move, look for a better one"
8) Pawn Snatching - If taking a pawn means your opponent can put a lot of pressure on you, it probably is not worth it. Calculate.
9) Creating Weaknesses - Make sure the move you are making is not going to create weaknesses in your position.
10) Inattention - Stay sharp and focused. Don't autopilot.
11) Anatomy of an Error - Set up good study habits and always maintain a positive attitude.
Chess is a game of research and practice. Although I have provided you with the simplifications of his points (the research), I have not provided you with opportunities to practice what you have learned. The book does an excellent job with this, providing various case studies from grandmaster games and a seasoned grandmaster's take on the common mistakes amateurs make.
If you are interested in receiving a free copy of this book, send me a private message.
