The Chess Dream Room Episode : Handling Pawns

Winner FIDE's Mark Dvoretsky Award 2018 (for best trainer of juniors)

Pawns are often thought of as the weakest pieces on the chessboard, but they play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the game. Properly handling pawns can create space, restrict the opponent's pieces, and create tactical opportunities for your pieces. On the other hand, poor pawn play can lead to a disadvantage in space and mobility, making it difficult to achieve your goals in the game. With the help of real-life examples, we demonstrate how handling pawns effectively can be a powerful tool for improving your chess and winning more games.

subscribe to watch

Episodes

Thank you! Your submission has been received!

Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

18.13

Improving Pieces

Learn how to improve pieces.

Improving pieces in a game of chess is a critical aspect of strategy and tactics. Each piece has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and it's essential to understand how to maximize the potential of each piece on the board. In this video, we explore the concepts behind improving pieces in a chess game. You will learn how to develop your pieces to increase their mobility and control of key squares, and how to coordinate your pieces to work together more effectively.

13.51

Attacking the King: Part 5

What are the things to consider when attacking the king (continued...).

The primary goal in chess is to attack the opponent's king, which can lead to a win by checkmate. In order to do this effectively, it is crucial to understand the concept of "space," which refers to the areas on the board that a player controls. The player with more space has more options for moves and is better positioned to mount an attack on the opponent's king. Additionally, it is important to understand the role of different pieces in attacking the king. Pawns, knights, bishops, rooks, and the queen can all play a role in the attack. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each piece, as well as how they can be used in combination, is key to mounting a successful attack on the opponent's king. A player must also be mindful of their own king's safety and look for opportunities to put their opponent's king in check while avoiding putting their own king in danger.

21.16

Exchanging Pieces

What are the factors to consider before exchanging pieces?

The concept of exchanging pieces in chess refers to the process of trading one of your pieces for one of your opponent's pieces. This is often done to improve one's position on the board and gain an advantage over the opponent. An exchange can occur when a player captures an opponent's piece with one of their own, such as a bishop taking a knight. The decision to exchange pieces should not be made lightly, as it can have a significant impact on the outcome of the game. When deciding whether or not to exchange pieces, a player should consider several factors such as material advantage, control of the center of the board, and mobility of the remaining pieces.

10.28

The Bad Bishop: Part 1

How to work with a bishop blocked by its own pawn(s)?

A "bad bishop" in chess refers to a bishop that is limited in its movement because it is blocked by its own pawns on the board. This can be a significant disadvantage, as bishops are powerful pieces that are typically used to control large sections of the board and attack the opponent's pieces. A bad bishop can be caused by an uncoordinated pawn structure, where pawns of the same color are on squares that prevent the bishop from moving freely. The presence of a bad bishop can limit a player's ability to control key squares and mount a strong attack. To mitigate the effects of a bad bishop, a player may try to exchange it for an opponent's piece or create new pawn structures that free up the bishop's movement. In some cases, a player may even choose to sacrifice their own pawns to free up the bishop and improve its mobility. Understanding the concept of a bad bishop and how to address it is an important part of chess strategy, as it can make the difference between a win and a loss.

11.55

The Bad Bishop: Part 2

Dealing with bad bishop (continued...).

A bad bishop in chess refers to a bishop that is restricted in its movements and unable to be effectively used in the game. This is typically due to other pieces on the board blocking its diagonals, making it difficult for the bishop to attack enemy pieces or control important squares. A bad bishop can be a significant disadvantage for a player, as it reduces the player's control over the board and limits their ability to launch an effective attack on the opponent's king. To mitigate the effects of a bad bishop, a player can try to exchange it for an enemy piece or relocate it to a more advantageous square. Another option is to try to create an open diagonal for the bishop by clearing obstructing pieces, either through exchanging them or moving them to a different part of the board.

25.29

The Bad Bishop: Part 3

Strategies to deal with bad bishop (continued...).

In the game of chess, a bishop is considered a "bad bishop" when it is placed on a square of the same color as the majority of its own pawns. This can result in the bishop being blocked and unable to move, which can negatively impact a player's position on the board. A bad bishop can also limit a player's control over certain squares and restrict the mobility of other pieces. To avoid having a bad bishop, it is important to consider the pawn structure during the opening phase of the game. A player should aim to place their pawns on squares of alternating colors to allow their bishops maximum mobility. In addition, a player can look to trade their bad bishop for an opponent's good bishop or seek to reposition it to a more favorable square.

17.37

Blockade & The Fortress

The art of giving up material to create a fortress!

The concepts of blockade and fortress in chess refer to techniques used to limit the mobility of the opponent's pieces and restrict their ability to make threats. A blockade is created when a player's pieces occupy squares that their opponent's pieces could potentially use to move and attack. This can limit the opponent's options and make it difficult for them to make threats. On the other hand, a fortress is a stronger form of blockade, where a player's pieces and pawns work together to completely restrict the opponent's pieces from moving.

15.39

QN vs QB

Which combination better - Queen and Knight or Queen and Bishop?

The concepts of QN vs QB in chess refer to a comparison between two different piece combinations: a queen and knight (QN) and a queen and bishop (QB). Both combinations have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them often depends on the specific situation and position of the pieces on the board. Having a QN combination can provide a player with greater mobility and control over the board. Knights are particularly effective in certain positions, such as when they are placed on outposts or when they are used to attack the opponent's pawn structure. On the other hand, the QB combination can be more effective in controlling the center of the board and exerting pressure on the opponent's pieces.

25.16

Knight vs Bishop: Part 1 (Flohr)

Flohr vs Capablanca, Knight vs Bishop!

Both knight and bishop have their unique strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them often depends on the specific situation and position of the pieces on the board. Bishops are strong at controlling the diagonals, making them effective at attacking enemy pieces and restricting the mobility of their opponent's pieces. They are particularly powerful in open positions with many diagonals. Knights, on the other hand, are stronger in closed positions and are known for their ability to jump over other pieces, making them effective at attacking enemy pieces and pawns. Knights are also effective in attacking the opponent's king, making them a valuable piece in the endgame. In this episode, GM Ramesh discusses the key concepts through an illustrative game played between Flohr and Capablanca in 1935.

27.33

Knight vs Bishop: Part 2

Torre vs Jakobsen, Good Knight vs Bad Bishop!

In the game of chess, Knights and Bishops are two important pieces that can play a significant role in the outcome of the game. Each piece has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them often depends on the specific situation and position of the pieces on the board. Knights are valued for their ability to jump over other pieces and reach squares that other pieces cannot. This makes them particularly effective in certain positions, such as when they are placed on outposts or when they are used to attack the opponent's pawn structure. On the other hand, Bishops are valued for their ability to control the diagonals and exert pressure on the opponent's pieces. In this video, GM Ramesh explains the concepts through an illustrative game played in 1973 between Torre Eugenio and Jacobsen Ole.

24.14

Rook and Pawn Endings:Part 4

How to defend when we are two pawns down?

In chess, a rook and pawn ending refers to a situation where only a rook and one or more pawns remain on the board for each player. This type of ending is considered one of the most challenging and difficult to win, as it often requires precise calculation and a deep understanding of positional elements. In a rook and pawn ending, the rook's role is to control the open files and provide support to the pawns. The pawns, in turn, are used to create passed pawns and restrict the opponent's rook. The player with the majority of pawns or the more advanced pawns often has the advantage, as they can use their pawns to create passed pawns or restrict the opponent's rook. It is important for a player to understand the different techniques used to create passed pawns, restrict the opponent's rook, and convert a rook and pawn ending into a win. In this episode, GM Ramesh discusses how to defend when we are two pawns down and they are h and f pawns.

14.29

Rook and Pawn Endings:Part 5

Some basic rook and pawn endings that we should know of.

In the game of chess, rook and pawn endings are an important aspect of endgame play, as they often determine the outcome of the game. A rook and pawn ending occurs when each player only has a rook and one or more pawns left on the board. The objective in this ending is to use the rook to support the pawns and promote them to a queen, or to use the rook to capture the opponent's pawns and win the game. The key to success in rook and pawn endings is understanding the proper use of the rook. A player must consider factors such as the pawn structure, the position of the rook, and the distance of the pawns from promotion, when deciding on the best plan of action.

10.47

Rook and Pawn Endings: Part 3

How to make a draw if opponent has an extra pawn on the A file?

In a rook and pawn ending, the goal is often to use the rook to control the pawns and either promote a pawn to a queen or trade the rook for the opponent's pawns. The player must also be mindful of the pawn structure, as the placement and direction of the pawns can greatly impact the outcome of the game. In this episode, GM R B Ramesh teaches how to make a draw if opponent has an extra pawn on a file.

18.49

Endgame Techniques: Karpov & Zvaginsev Games

Endgames techniques - how do we press our advantage to force a win!

In this episode, Ramesh discusses some key endgame techniques in this interaction with former world under 10 champion, WIM Rakshita Ravi.

15.01

Important Endgames

Practical endgames (illustrative examples).

Endgames in chess refer to the stage of the game where there are only a few pieces left on the board and the outcome of the game is determined by the precise manipulation of these pieces. While endgames may seem simple, they can actually be quite complex and require a different set of skills compared to more complex positions with multiple pieces. Some practical endgames that players should understand include rook and pawn endings, knight vs bishop endings, and queen vs rook endings. These types of endgames require a deep understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of each piece, as well as the ability to accurately assess the potential outcomes of different moves. Players must also be able to coordinate their pieces effectively, make precise calculations, and understand the key principles involved in endgame strategy. Understanding these practical endgames is an important aspect of chess strategy and can greatly impact the outcome of the game. In this episode, GM Ramesh discusses some practical endgames with former world under 12 champion, WGM Divya Deshmukh.

20.30

Playing with Double Bishops

How to play with a pair of bishops in the endgame?

Playing with double bishops in chess refers to having two bishops of the same color on the board. Double bishops can be a valuable asset for a player, as they provide greater control over the diagonals and can create threats to the opponent's pieces. Having double bishops can be particularly effective in open positions with many diagonals, as the bishops can work together to attack the opponent's pieces and create threats. However, players must also consider the pawn structure and the placement of their bishops, as having the bishops on the same color squares can limit their effectiveness.

14.57

The Principle of Two Weaknesses

What is the principle of two weaknesses?

The principle of two weaknesses in chess refers to a strategic concept that involves creating two weaknesses in the opponent's position that can be exploited. This can be achieved by creating pawn weaknesses, such as isolated pawns or backward pawns, or by creating weaknesses in the opponent's king position, such as by exposing the king to attack. By creating two weaknesses, a player can create a situation where the opponent is forced to address both weaknesses, making it more difficult to defend their position. This can lead to opportunities for the player to attack and create threats, and ultimately increase their chances of winning the game.

12.30

Bishop and Pawn Ending: Part 3

Practical examples from same colour bishop endgames.

In a bishop and pawn ending, the player must be mindful of the pawn structure, as the placement and direction of the pawns can greatly impact the outcome of the game. The bishop's ability to control the diagonals and attack the pawns must also be taken into consideration. The player must use their bishop and pawns effectively to create threats and opportunities, and make precise calculations to determine the best course of action.

9.00

Bishop and Pawn Ending: Part 4

Interesting bishop and pawn ending example (Khalifman et al, 1993)

In this episode, GM R B Ramesh discusses the key techniques of bishop and pawn endings through an illustrative example of a game played by GM Alexander Khalifman in 1993.

13.16

Opposite Colour Bishops: The Basics

Some "handy" opposite colour bishop endgames!

Opposite color bishops in chess refer to a situation where each player has a bishop and the bishops are on squares of opposite colors. This type of position can create unique challenges for both players, as the bishops are limited in the squares they can control and attack. In an opposite color bishop position, the pawn structure and the placement of the pieces become particularly important. Players must carefully consider the potential outcomes of different moves, as well as the coordination of their pieces, in order to create threats and opportunities.

23.08

Calculations: Explanation

What are the common mistakes players make while calculating?

Calculation is an essential aspect of chess, as it allows players to evaluate the potential outcomes of different moves and choose the best course of action. The process of calculation involves considering all possible moves and responses, and predicting the consequences of each move. However, calculation can also be a challenging process, and players often make common mistakes while calculating. These mistakes include failing to consider all relevant factors, such as the position of the opponent's pieces and the pawn structure, and underestimating the opponent's potential responses. Additionally, players may also overlook key tactical opportunities, such as a potential discovered attack, and make imprecise evaluations of the position. In this interaction with WGM Divya Deshmukh, GM R B Ramesh discusses and shares his learnings on many of these key issues through some illustrative examples.

9.26

Complex Calculations

Calculating important variations in complex situations.

The process of calculation and evaluation of different variations is a crucial aspect of chess, as it involves predicting the potential outcomes of different moves and considering the responses of the opponent. The ability to accurately evaluate different variations is essential for making strong moves and outmaneuvering the opponent. The process of evaluation requires a deep understanding of chess strategy and tactics, as well as the ability to accurately assess the potential outcomes of different moves.

28.43

Classification of Advantage & Assessment of Position

How to classify advantages and assess a position?

Classification of advantage involves determining who has the better position in the game, based on factors such as material balance, pawn structure, king safety, and the coordination of pieces. Assessment of position involves evaluating the different elements of the position and determining the potential outcomes of different moves. This requires a deep understanding of chess strategy and tactics, as well as the ability to accurately assess the potential outcomes of different moves. A player must also be mindful of their own biases and assumptions, and strive to consider all possible options and responses before making a move. In this video, R B Ramesh discusses his insights with WIM Rakshita Ravi.

12.49

Evaluation of Position

To evaluate a position, players must consider various factors, such as material balance, pawn structure, king safety, and the coordination of pieces. They must also be mindful of their own biases and assumptions, and strive to consider all possible options and responses before making a move. Effective evaluation of position requires a combination of experience, tactical awareness, and strategic thinking, and it is an important aspect of chess strategy.

12.54

Common Mistakes by Young Players

Some common mistakes that chess players make.

Grandmaster Ramesh discusses some of the common mistakes made by chess players in this interactive chat with WIM and former world under 10 champion, Rakshita Ravi

21.09

Positional Play: Part 1

Difficult decisions during positional play (Ivanchuk vs Nigel Short).

Positional play is a key concept in chess that involves controlling the board and utilizing your pieces in a strategic manner to achieve a long-term advantage. Unlike tactical play, which focuses on short-term gains and exploiting weaknesses, positional play involves slow, steady improvements and a gradual increase in advantage. By focusing on long-term goals, positional play can help players achieve victory in a strategic and sustainable manner.

19.32

Positional Play: Part 2

An interesting game of positional play between Ponomariov and Svidler.

Positional play is a crucial aspect of chess that involves using a combination of strategy and tactics to gain an advantage over the opponent. It involves understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the current position, and using that knowledge to make informed decisions and control the flow of the game. Positional play requires a deep understanding of chess strategy, as well as the ability to accurately assess the potential outcomes of different moves. In contrast to tactical play, which focuses on forcing immediate gains through specific moves, positional play is characterized by slow, deliberate moves that aim to gradually improve the player's position. This can involve controlling key squares, limiting the opponent's mobility, or creating opportunities for the player's pieces to work together effectively. Positional play is an important aspect of chess that requires patience, careful planning, and a long-term perspective.

18.24

Complex Calculations: Part 2

Complex blindfold calculations with GM Praggnanandhaa!

GM Praggnanandhaa is a young chess prodigy known for his exceptional calculation and blindfolding abilities. He has already achieved several remarkable milestones in the chess world, including becoming the youngest ever International Master and second youngest Grandmaster in history. In this video, you will witness GM Praggnanandhaa perform a complex calculation blindfolded, showcasing his remarkable mental skills and ability to visualize the chessboard in his mind.

20.05

Endgame (Knight vs Bishop): Part 1

Some complex examples of Knight vs Bishop endgames.

The bishop is typically considered to be stronger than the knight in an open board, where it has access to many squares of both colors. However, the knight is often more versatile and can be more effective in closed positions, where it can use its ability to jump over other pieces to create threats and control key squares. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each piece, as well as how to coordinate their movements, is essential for success in a knight vs bishop endgame.

13.53

Discussion with Celebrated Chess Coaches: Part 1

Discussions around coaching methods with some celebrated chess coaches.

M R B Ramesh is a renowned chess Grandmaster and coach, known for his success as a player and his expertise in teaching the game. In this video, he will be joined by two other famous chess coaches for an insightful discussion about their coaching methods and philosophies. The panel of experts will share their experiences and perspectives on coaching, providing valuable insights for chess players of all levels.

20.49

Attacking the King (Advanced): Part 1

Advanced techniques of attacking the king!

Attacking the king is a crucial aspect of the game of chess and one of the most important goals for any player. Whether you're playing aggressively or looking for a way to defend your own king, understanding the principles and techniques of king attacks is essential for success. In this video, we will explore the concepts behind attacking the king, including the different types of attacks, the roles of the various pieces, and the most common patterns and tactics used to launch an attack. In this episode, GM Ramesh discussed the key concepts during his interaction with Grandmasters Aravind Chidambaram and Karthikeyan Murali.

10.27

Improving Pieces (Advanced)

Improving pieces in more complex scenarios.

While it may seem simple, chess is a complex game that requires a deep understanding of strategy, tactics, and pattern recognition. Improving pieces in the game of chess is an advanced concept that can help players to gain a significant advantage over their opponents. In this video, we will explore the different ways to improve pieces in the game of chess and provide tips and tricks to help players enhance their skills.

13.56

Blindfold Studies: Part 1

How to improve our calculations by solving chess studies blindfolded - a session with GM Praggnanandhaa.

Calculations are an essential aspect of chess, and the ability to make accurate predictions about future moves can be the difference between victory and defeat. Improving your calculations can greatly enhance your game, and one way to achieve this is through the study of chess studies. In this video, Grandmaster Praggnanandhaa, one of the youngest chess grandmasters in history, demonstrates how to improve our calculations through the use of chess studies.

9.41

Discussion with Celebrated Chess Coaches: Part 2

Hard work or talent, which is more important?

The relative importance of hard work and talent has been a topic of debate in many fields, including chess. While some believe that hard work is the key to success, others argue that natural talent plays a more significant role. In this video, we bring together Grandmaster R.B. Ramesh, along with two famous chess coaches, to engage in a lively discussion around this important topic. GM Ramesh, with his years of experience as a top-level player and coach, provides a unique perspective on the role of hard work and talent in chess. Along with the two coaches, he will delve into the various factors that contribute to success in the game, from natural ability to dedicated training and practice.

7.41

Playing with the Isolated Queen Pawn

Polishing your skills with an isolated queen pawn.

The isolated queen pawn is a unique pawn structure that can arise in the game of chess. It occurs when a player has a pawn on its own on the d- or e-file, without a pawn of the same color on an adjacent file. Playing with an isolated queen pawn can be challenging, as it requires a different approach compared to a more typical pawn structure. In this video, we will explore the concepts behind playing with an isolated queen pawn and provide tips and strategies to help players to effectively handle this pawn structure. The isolated queen pawn can lead to certain pawn weaknesses and restrict the mobility of certain pieces, but it also has its advantages. By understanding the potential of the isolated queen pawn, players can create opportunities for their pieces and make use of the pawn's unique characteristics.

22.14

Playing with the Isolated Pawn

Playing with isolated pawn with GM Praggnanandhaa (continued...).

The isolated pawn is a pawn that stands alone on a file without the support of a pawn on an adjacent file. In the game of chess, isolated pawns can be a significant challenge, as they can lead to pawn weaknesses and restrict the mobility of certain pieces. However, they can also provide unique opportunities for the player who knows how to handle them effectively. The key to playing with isolated pawns is understanding their strengths and weaknesses. In this video, we will explore the concepts behind playing with isolated pawns and provide tips and strategies to help players to use them to their advantage.

19.40

Passed Pawn: Part 1

How to play with passed pawn (Korchnoi vs Najdorf)?

A passed pawn is a pawn that has no enemy pawns blocking its path to promotion. In the game of chess, passed pawns can be a powerful weapon, as they can quickly create threats and lead to a decisive advantage. However, they can also be a challenge to handle, as they require a different approach compared to other pawns. The key to playing with passed pawns is to understand their potential and to know how to protect them. A passed pawn can be used to create pressure on the enemy king, to control important squares, or to create tactical opportunities. In this video, Grandmaster R B Ramesh explains the key concepts through an illustrative game played between Korchnoi and Najdorf in 1971.

11.33

Chess Studies with Champions: Part 1

Blindfold chess studies with GM Abhijeet Gupta and World Under 12 Champion, Divya Deshmukh.

Blindfold chess is a remarkable feat of memory and visualization, where players are able to play chess without physically seeing the board. This type of play requires a deep understanding of chess concepts and a well-developed ability to visualize the position in one's mind. In this episode, Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta, also known as “Mr Commonwealth” for his unparalleled track record of winning 5 commonwealth tournaments, demonstrates his skills through a series of blindfold studies.

12.04

Chess Studies with Champions: Part 2

Blindfold chess study with GM Aravindh Chithambaram.

Blindfold chess is a remarkable feat of memory and visualization, where players are able to play chess without physically seeing the board. This type of play requires a deep understanding of chess concepts and a well-developed ability to visualize the position in one's mind. In this video, Grandmaster Aravindh Chidambaram, an experienced blindfold chess player, will guide us through a series of blindfold studies.

8.52

Discussion with Celebrated Chess Coaches : Part 3

How can we drive motivation during ups and downs?

Motivation is a critical component in achieving success in any field, and chess is no exception. In order to become a top player, one must have a deep passion for the game, along with the drive to put in the hard work required to improve. In this video, Grandmaster R.B. Ramesh will lead a discussion with two famous chess coaches about the topic of motivation.

14.31

Passed Pawn: Part 2

Passing on the passed pawn?

A passed pawn is a pawn that has no enemy pawns blocking its path to promotion. In chess, a passed pawn can be a powerful weapon, as it can create many threats to the opponent's position and disrupt their pawn structure. In this video, GM Ramesh takes up an interesting example of passed pawn with GMs Aravindh Chidambaram and Karthikeyan Murali.

18.51

Prophylaxis (Advanced)

Practicing prophylaxis with Grandmasters Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali.

Prophylaxis is a chess concept that involves anticipating and preventing your opponent's plans before they can be executed. It is an important defensive technique that can help you to neutralize your opponent's threats and maintain control of the game. In this video, we will explore the key concepts behind prophylaxis in chess.

15.46

King and Pawn Ending (Advanced): Part 1

Some interesting king and pawn endings with GMs Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali.

In this video, we will explore the key concepts behind king and pawn endgames. We will cover important topics such as king positioning, pawn structure, and pawn promotion, and examine how to convert your advantage into a win. We will also look at common patterns and endings, and how to use them to your advantage.

23.03

King and Pawn Ending (Advanced): Part 2

King and pawn endings with GMs Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali (continued...).

The king and pawn endgame is one of the most important and fundamental endgames in chess. In this type of endgame, the objective is to use the king and pawns to force the opponent's king into a position where it is unable to stop one of your pawns from promoting to a queen. Understanding the key concepts and strategies of this endgame is crucial for any chess player. In this video, we will explore the key concepts behind the king and pawn endgame, including pawn structure, king positioning, and the creation of passed pawns.

27.43

Active Defence (Advanced)

Blindfolded active defence session with young GMs Karthikeyan Murali and Aravindh Chithambaram.

Active defense is a chess strategy that involves proactively seeking to create counterplay and generate threats against your opponent's position, rather than simply trying to defend passively. It is an important concept for any chess player to understand, as it can help to turn the tables on your opponent and put them on the defensive. In this video, we will explore the key concepts behind active defense in chess.

12.43

Discussions with Celebrated Chess Coaches : Part 4

How to approach playing in tournaments!

Tournament play is an integral part of the chess experience, and offers players the opportunity to test their skills against other players and measure their progress over time. In this video, we will hear a discussion between Grandmaster R B Ramesh and two famous chess coaches on the topic of playing in tournaments. The discussion will cover a wide range of topics related to tournament play, including how to prepare for a tournament, how to manage time and energy, how to deal with the pressure of competition, and how to handle different types of opponents and situations. The coaches and GM Ramesh will offer their own insights and tips based on their extensive experience, and provide valuable advice on how to become a better tournament player.

15.29

Initiative: Part 1 (Explanation)

"Initiative means superiority" - Former World Champion Capablanca.

In chess, initiative is a crucial aspect that can greatly influence the outcome of the game. It refers to the player's control over the pace and direction of play, and the ability to dictate the moves of the opponent. The player with the initiative has the advantage of being able to make threats, create tactical opportunities, and force their opponent to react to their moves. GM Ramesh explains the advanced concepts in this interaction with Grandmasters Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali.

19.51

Initiative: Part 2 (Examples)

Gary Kasparov illustrating the concept of initiative through his game from 1980.

Initiative in chess refers to the control of the game's tempo and direction. It is the ability of a player to dictate the pace and direction of play and force their opponent to react. A player with the initiative is able to put pressure on their opponent and make them play passively, leading to potential mistakes. Having the initiative can be a significant advantage in a chess game and can lead to a tactical or positional advantage. In this video, GM Ramesh takes up the key concepts through an illustrative game played by former world champion Gary Kasparov in 1980.

14.03

Endgame(Knight vs Bishop): Part 2

A complicated endgame between knight and bishop.

One important concept to understand in the knight versus bishop endgame is the difference between the strengths and weaknesses of the knight and bishop. The knight is known for its ability to jump over other pieces and control squares of different colors, making it a versatile piece in the endgame. On the other hand, the bishop is limited to controlling squares of only one color but is more powerful in open positions. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of both pieces is crucial for successfully navigating this endgame scenario. Other important concepts to consider include pawn structure, king safety, and the role of space in this endgame.

16.42

Opposite Colour Bishop & Pawn Ending

A difficult opposite colour bishop and pawn endgame calculation.

The opposite color bishop and pawn ending in chess refers to the endgame scenario where each player has only a bishop and a pawn on the board, and the bishops are of opposite colors. The color of the bishops can greatly affect the outcome of the game in this endgame scenario. A bishop on a light square can control all the dark squares, while a bishop on a dark square can control all the light squares. The player with the bishop of the right color must use their piece to restrict the pawn's movement and create a winning position. On the other hand, the player with the bishop of the wrong color must find a way to create threats and complicate the position in order to create chances for their opponent to make a mistake.

13.28

Complex Calculations: Part 4

Complex calculations with GMs Praggnanandhaa, Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali.

In this video, GM Ramesh does blindfold studies with the three musketeers, Grandmasters Praggnanandhaa, Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali.

36.19

Complex Calculations: Part 5

Complex calculations with GMs Praggnanandhaa, Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali (continued...).

In this video, GM Ramesh discusses a complex game played between Grandmasters Surya Shekhar Ganguly and Peter Svidler in 2011 in China.

24.08

Analyzing Praggnanandhaa: Part 1

Analyzing GM Praggnanandhaa vs Awonder Liang.

In this video, GM Ramesh discusses an interesting game played between Grandmasters Praggnanandhaa and Awonder Liang in 2017.

18.51

Analyzing Praggnanandhaa: Part 2

Analyzing Praggnanandhaa vs Bosiocic (2018).

In this video, GM Ramesh discusses an interesting game played between Grandmasters Praggnanandhaa and Marin Bosiočić in 2018 in Gibraltar.

16.43

GMs Game Analysis: Part 1

Analyzing Magnus Carlsen vs Hou Yifan with GM Karthikeyan Murali.

In this video, GM Ramesh discusses an interesting game played between Grandmasters Magnus Carlsen vs Hou Yifan in 2016.

8.39

Discussions with Celebrated Chess Coaches : Part 5

Strategies to adopt while playing tournaments.

In the world of competitive chess, preparation is key to success. A tournament can be a grueling experience, requiring players to be in top physical and mental form for days or even weeks at a time. Preparation during the tournament is just as important as preparation before the tournament, as it can greatly impact a player's performance. In this video, Grandmaster R B Ramesh joins two famous chess coaches for a discussion around the topic of preparations during the tournament.

14.44

Prophylaxis & Improving Pieces

Solving complex positions by combining prophylaxis and improving pieces.

Prophylaxis and Improving Pieces are two key concepts in chess strategy. Prophylaxis refers to a move or series of moves that is made to prevent the opponent from carrying out a certain plan. It is about anticipating the opponent's intentions and taking steps to neutralize them. Improving pieces, on the other hand, refers to a player's ability to reposition their pieces in a way that maximizes their potential. Both concepts are important for achieving a strong position and controlling the game. GM R B Ramesh gives some complex positions to Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali where both of these play a big role.

17.10

Attacking the King: Part 2(Geller)

An illustrative example of attacking game by Fide Master Geller.

Attacking the king is a crucial aspect of chess strategy. It involves creating threats against the opponent's king with the aim of forcing a win or a draw by checkmate. A player who can effectively attack their opponent's king will have a significant advantage in the game. This can lead to tactical or positional gains, and increase the chances of winning the game. In this video, GM Ramesh discusses an interesting game played by Fide Master Geller.

19.53

Endgame(Rook & Pawn Ending): Part 1

Complex rook and pawn ending analysis.

The rook and pawn ending in chess refers to a scenario in the endgame where each player has only a rook and one or more pawns on the board. This type of ending can be difficult to play and often requires precise calculation and an understanding of pawn structure. The player with the advantage in this ending must be able to create a winning plan and execute it flawlessly. In this video, you will learn explain the key concepts of the rook and pawn ending, including the importance of pawn structure, the use of the rook to control the open files and diagonals, and the creation of passed pawns.

11.04

Endgame(Rook & Pawn Ending): Part 2

An excellent illustrative example of rook and pawn endgame.

The rook and pawn ending in chess refers to a endgame scenario where each player has only a rook and pawns on the board. This type of ending can be challenging, as the rook's strength is greatly influenced by the position of the pawns. Understanding the dynamics between the rook and pawns and how to use them effectively is critical for success in this endgame scenario. In this video, you will learn the key concepts of how to create a passed pawn, control the open files, and coordinate the rook and pawns for maximum effectiveness through an illustrative example.

25.58

Principle of Two Weaknesses (Games): Part 2

A detailed look at the principle of two weaknesses.

The principle of two weaknesses is a key concept in chess strategy that refers to the idea of targeting two weaknesses in the opponent's position at the same time. This approach can be effective in creating pressure and disrupting the opponent's defenses, and it can also lead to tactical or positional gains. Understanding the Principle of Two Weaknesses and how to apply it in your games is essential for success in chess. In this video, you will learn how to identify opportunities to target two weaknesses in your opponent's position, how to coordinate your pieces to create maximum pressures and how to defend against this strategy.

33.16

Deconstruction of Puzzles

Deconstructing puzzles with the three musketeers!

In this episode, GM R B Ramesh does complex puzzle solving with the three musketeers, Grandmasters Praggnanandhaa, Aravindh Chithambaram and Karthikeyan Murali.

20.22

Complex Calculations: Part 6

Complex calculations with "Mr. Commonwealth", GM Abhijeet Gupta!

GM R B Ramesh does complex puzzle solving with Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta.

37.22

Endgame(Rook & Pawn Ending): Part 3 (Spielman)

Illustrative rook and pawn endgame (Spielman vs Rubinstein, 1909).

The rook and pawn endgame is one of the most challenging and complex scenarios in chess, and it requires a deep understanding of the interplay between the rook and pawns. One of the most famous examples of this type of ending is the Spielman vs Rubinstein game from 1909, which is widely regarded as a classic demonstration of the art of rook and pawn play. In this video, you will learn the key concepts of the rook and pawn endgame, including pawn structure, king activity, and the use of open files and diagonals. You will also learn to use these concepts to create threats, disrupt your opponent's defenses, and achieve a winning position.