Chessschool

Lesson 10 of 13

Opening principles

The first moves decide a lot. Three rules of thumb: take the center, bring out your pieces and get your king to safety.

Take the center

The squares d4, e4, d5 and e5 give your pieces the most room. That is why many games start with e2 to e4.

Pieces out, then castle

Develop knights and bishops first and castle early. Don't bring your queen out too soon.

Try the rule yourself

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