Chapter 7: Mate in two · Level 38 of 50

Level 38: Mate in Two: Back Rank

Goal: Checkmate in two moves on the back row: check first, then mate whatever Black does. 4 puzzles · ★★★ = no mistakes.

▶ Watch how it works

Mate in two: your first move must work against every answer. The black rook guards the back row.

Got it? Try the puzzles ↓

Puzzle 1 of 4

Mate in two. Black will block — then you mate.

Your move

💡 Need a hint?

Check on the back row. Black can only block or take — then your second piece finishes the job.

What you learn here

In a mate in two your first move must work against EVERY answer. Back-row checks are great first moves: Black has very few replies, and each one runs into mate. After your first move this page plays Black’s best defence — then you give mate.

Chapter 7 — Mate in two: Your first move makes mate unstoppable. The board then plays Black’s best defence — and you give checkmate on the next move.

Chapter 7 levels