We have previously covered some of the most important defensive principles of chess. Today we will talk about the most exciting topic – the attack. Keep in mind that attack is the best form of defense. In order to attack well you need to be familiar with these seven very important attacking principles (they will help you to win many games).

Knowing your theory well is very important nowadays, but unfortunately not enough. With such an amount of information available to practically everyone, it is less and less probable that you win a game out of the opening thanks to some good preparation. Usually, the difference between a strong player and an amateur or beginner is seen in the middlegame, where the Grandmaster is able to select the right plans according to the type of position he has on the board.

Checkmate is an ultimate goal of the game. Ability to deliver a checkmate is closely tied to tactics. It is a very important skill that chess players of all levels, and especially those under 2200 should focus on. The best approach studying checkmates is to carefully understand the ideas and remember the key pattern. Pattern recognition is the key concept here. It is well known that chess masters know 1000s of tactical combinations and are able to instantly identify them. Today we will learn 10 must-know checkmates.