Transferring and integrating tactical abilities with over-the-board games is
quite difficult. As a result, a structured way to play and think is needed. With this flow chart half of your time will be spent on his move and half on your move. Immediately after every move your opponent makes do the following: 1. HIS Write down his move. Understand his tactical (CCT1) and strategic threats2 (25% time). 2. YOUR If serious, respond accordingly. If not, search for tactics (CCT). If none, strategize.3 The goal is to find the best move. (50%) 3. HIS Double check intended move/position for his best response (CCT). If problem found go back to Step 1. If none, make best move and press clock. (25%) 4. Write your move, check clock, and, if response is forced, continue calculating tactics. If no forced response, strategize. Sit at the table and concentrate on the position while waiting for opponent to move. Only if absolutely necessary, rest and relax (close your eyes), drink water, eat snack, and get up to stretch or for bathroom. It is important to follow this 4-step sequence on every move, even openings and positions with mate-in-one! However, if there are 5 minutes or less left on either clock, then move writing is no longer required. To calculate the amount of time available for each move divide the total time available by 60. Move times are only approximate averages. In general, move quicker in the opening (1/6), slower in the middlegame (1/2), and at average speed in the endgame (1/3). Spend only up to twice the allotted time on tactical positions, but spend only half the time on strategic ones. Samples: Time ControlTotal Time
Per Move
Step 1Step 2Step 3
Step 4
1 CCT = Check for Checks, Catch all Captures, and Treat all Threats seriously. 2 Think as if you are playing for your opponent (i.e. possible plans, goals, etc.) 3 Strategy includes quick, simple plans that improve the position (i.e. complete development, increase piece activity, decide general attack area, trade pawns and open lines, create weaknesses, strengthen king safety, etc.)
