Chess Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts of OTB Chess
Transitioning to over-the-board (OTB) chess? Master the essential rules of chess etiquette, from the touch-move rule to proper sportsmanship.
The LocalChess Blog
Guides, tips, and behind-the-scenes notes on chess and the game engine that powers LocalChess.
How Chess Ratings Work: Elo System Explained
Ever wondered how chess ratings work? Learn how the Elo rating system measures player strength, calculates points, and ranks players worldwide.
How to Use a Chess Clock: Rules and Time Controls
Learn how to use a chess clock, understand common time controls like increments and delays, and discover the essential rules for over-the-board play.
The Most Famous Chess Games Ever Played
Explore some of the most famous chess games in history, including the Immortal Game, the Opera Game, and the iconic Fischer vs. Spassky 1972 showdown.
The Bishop Pair: Why Two Bishops Are Better Than One
Learn why the bishop pair is a powerful strategic advantage in chess. Discover how to use two bishops to dominate open boards and win games.
Understanding Pawn Structures in Chess
Isolated, doubled, backward and passed pawns — what each means, the plans that come with it, and how to build a strategy around the structure you have.
How to Deal with Chess Anxiety: Tips for Tournament Players
Overcome chess anxiety and tournament nerves! Read our practical guide on mental preparation, breathing techniques, and mindset shifts for chess players.
Chess for Kids: How to Teach Children to Play Chess
Want to teach your child chess? Discover fun, engaging, and effective methods to introduce kids to chess rules, board setup, and basic tactics.
The Sicilian Defense Dragon Variation: Aggressive and Sharp
Master the Sicilian Dragon opening! Learn the key moves, tactical ideas, and Yugoslav Attack theory of this sharp and aggressive defense for Black.
The Slav Defense: The Ultimate Shield Against the Queen's Gambit
Discover the Slav Defense, a solid chess opening for Black against the Queen's Gambit. Learn key variations, strategic plans, and pawn structures.
The Scotch Game: An Action-Packed Opening for White
Master the Scotch Game, an aggressive chess opening for White after 1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nc6 3.d4. Learn key tactics, variations, and winning plans.
How to Avoid Common Chess Blunders
Tired of losing won games? Learn simple checklist techniques and mental habits to spot threats, avoid blunders, and improve your chess rating.