Checkmates and Tactics

Checkmates and Tactics contains 150 exercises to develop chess skill with emphasis on checkmate patterns and common tactical operations. The exercises start with simple checkmates and then simple examples of pins, X-rays, decoys, and forks. The exercises become more difficult further into the book with fewer forced checkmates. Some exercises aim at recognizing threats and finding the only move that avoids loss. There are several endgame positions in the mix. In addition to the exercises, there is a glossary that lists and explains tactical ideas and checkmates. Each glossary entry contains a diagram to clearly illustrate the idea. There is also a section of clues that lists one of the tactical ideas in each exercise. The exercises in this book have been tested with youth players from beginner to strong class player for more than a dozen years. Several of these students have advanced beyond their teacher in skill.