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Goal: Follow the first opening rule: put pawns in the centre (d4, e4, d5, e5). 5 puzzles · ★★★ = no mistakes.
Rule 1 of the opening: take the centre — the four squares in the middle of the board.
Rule 1: put a pawn in the centre. Which move follows it: a3, e4 or h4?
The four centre squares are d4, e4, d5 and e5. A pawn there controls the middle of the board and opens lines for your queen and bishops.
Three opening rules make a good start: 1) put a pawn in the centre, 2) bring out your knights and bishops, 3) castle early to keep your king safe. Moves like a3 or h4 do none of these — they waste time.
Chapter 8 — Endgames and strategy: Mate with king and queen or king and rook, win king-and-pawn endings with the opposition and key squares, and start games with the three opening rules.