More chess tidbits

Everything I Need to Know About Life, I Learned from Playing Chess

1. Brute force is almost never the best way to achieve a goal. The risk and price paid are usually high and the success rate usually low.
2. Always be aware of your vulnerabilities. Evaluate the degree of each weakness: if the threat is severe, respond accordingly.
3. Always be aware of your opponent’s weaknesses. Identify them early and plan your moves to exploit them.
4. Make each move count. Don’t “waste” a move by stalling just to see what your opponent will do. This lets the opposition control the tempo of the game.
5. The most efficient way to defeat your opponent is to create a “no way out” situation. This minimizes the hunt/chase factor around the board.
6. Taking a strong position, or firmly planting your flag in the ground, can sometimes be a good offensive strategy. It also lets your opponent know exactly what your intentions are, and can potentially make you a sitting duck.
7. Always be aware of the relative value of each piece. Don’t be afraid to sacrifice pieces if you are getting a more valuable piece in return.
8. Don’t underestimate the value of pawns. They frequently form the basis of strong defenses, and can also cause severe structural deficiencies in your opponent’s game (such as doubled pawns).
9. It ain’t over till it’s over. When your opponent is up against the ropes, plan your moves strategically and finish him quickly. Likewise when your own back is up against the wall, don’t give up. Make each move count.
10. Know when to develop your game, and when to strike. Waiting too long (or being afraid) to begin the real battle can sometimes give your opponent the upper hand by letting him draw first blood. It is akin to knowing there is a robber on your front porch and opening the door to let him in the house before you start to defend yourself. Chess is a game of strategy, and that includes knowing when the right time to apply pressure is.