Patterns save thinking
Also called Pattern recognition, Chunking.
Learn common patterns so you recognise them at a glance instead of working them out each time.
Patterns are learned by repetition in varied positions, which is why Chaalwise sets the same idea in new positions rather than the same one again.
Why it matters
Strong players recognise far more patterns than beginners, and use them to choose what to calculate. Every pattern you know frees attention for what is new.
Away from the game
Experienced doctors, mechanics and editors spot familiar problems in seconds and spend their effort on the unfamiliar ones, and the best know to double-check when a case does not quite fit.
New to chess? The examples here use it. Play your first moves (five minutes), then learn chess from the beginning, one short lesson at a time.
Try it yourself
A pattern you will see again and again. Mate in one.
One question, a minute or two. Nothing to finish first.
Want more? Practise Calculate.
Learn and practise it
- Lesson: Patterns save thinking
- Skill: Calculate