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Day 2 · 15 min · Free forever

One ply deeper on force

  • Add one ply on checks and captures

Most club blunders stop one move early on a forcing line. After you find a good idea, ask: what is the best reply?

Especially on checks and captures — extend one ply before you commit.

Habit rule · After a good idea, name the opponent's best reply.

Practice position

r1bqkb1r/pppp1ppp/2n2n2/4p2Q/2B1P3/8/PPPP1PPP/RNB1K1NR w KQkq - 4 4

A classic scholar-style finish — calculate the force to the end.

Side to move: White. Solution teaching line: Qxf7#

Forcing checks must be calculated to mate or material, not stopped early.

Knowledge check

When should you extend one ply?

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