A rook, knight, and pawn coordinate to deliver checkmate with the knight protected by the pawn.

The Hook Mate is a checkmate pattern involving the coordinated action of a rook, knight, and pawn. The rook delivers checkmate, protected by the knight, which is itself shielded by the pawn—forming a hook-like chain of protection.

Key Elements

• A rook delivers the final check.
  
• A knight protects the rook and covers key escape squares.
  
• A pawn protects the knight, completing the hook formation.
  
• The opposing king has no flight squares.