Common Questions by Beginning Players

1. What is a good age to start teaching my child to play chess? Between 4 and 5 years old. Some children mature earlier, you be the judge.

2. What are some tips on learning to play chess? for children? for teenagers? for adults? A good coach helps, but if that is not possible get a good book. One of the best I've seen for children is called '"Chess Tactics for Students" by John Bain.

3. Can you recommend some helpful books for a beginner? "Chess Tactics for Students" by John Bain.

4. Which phase of the game should I study the most? Middlegame. This can be done by analysing games with a strong player of computer program, as well as by getting a good book on tactics. I recommend "Anthology of Chess Combinations" by the group that makes "The Informant".

5. What are some sound opening principles to follow?  Knights before Bishops. Don't unnecessarily move the same minor piece twice within the first 10 moves-the opening. Get castled early.

6. Do you recommend computer chess programs for learning chess? Yes!!

7. What are the benefits of playing in tournaments? An enhanced competitive spirit. An idea of where you stand amongst peers. Fun!

8. Is there a particular etiquette for tournaments? Yes. Shake hands, be polite when winning or losing.

9. I'm tired of losing. What can I do to get better? Visit The Chess Drum! Study games there. Join the Internet Chess Club (ICC). Find a good coach and take a few 1-hour lessons.

10. How many moves should I think ahead? It all depends on the position. On average, 3.


Common Questions by Intermediate Players

1. How do I choose an opening repertoire? It depends on your personality. For example, players who open with e4 are aggressive. Players who open with d4 are a little more cautious. You have to find yourself and then build.

2. Is it a good practice to memorize openings? Yes, but don't rely on memory. Try to understand the ideas behind the moves so you will know what to do when something different happens.

3. How do I know which pieces to trade? Good question. You have to look at how a active or inactive a piece is. You want to trade off your opponent's good pieces and try to prevent your good pieces from being exchanged. It's alright to exchange your good pieces if you get something good for it.

4. Which phase of the game should I study the most? (opening, middlegame, endgame) Learn the fundamentals of every phase of the game and use them as your guide. A good coach can teach you them in a 1-hour lesson.

5. What can I do to improve my tactical vision? Study tactics! A good place to start is with the CD, "Killer Moves" or with "Anthology of Chess Combinations."

6. Why study endgames if my games don't last that long? As you move "up the ladder" your games will last longer. Besides the endgame is just as important as any other phase of the game. Chess is an art and you should not be content with learning only part of it.

7. Can you recommend some helpful books for an intermediate player? "The Test of Time" by Garry Kasparov; "My System" by Aaron Nimzowitsch; "The Art of Attack" by Milan Vukovic.

8. Should I play blitz chess? Internet chess? Yes! It will help your openings and tactics. But don't over do it.

9. Is it a good idea to use computer programs to analyze my games? Yes!!

10. How can I avoid time pressure? Play some blitz and other time control practice games.


Common Question by non-Master Players

What methods did you use to become a chess master? How long did it take? I concentrated on learning tactics. Not long.

Submitted: 22 August 2004

For more information on Muhammad, visit "Muhammad's Chess Training"