Originally posted by monteirofI think addictive is the right word as I've tried to give it up several times but only seem to stop for a couple of days. Then I allow myself just one go on it for some specific reason and before you know it I'm back to my old habit of using it all the time.
I think it is. I barely think and already start to move the pieces... that's not very good to improve OTB, I guess.
Now I don't believe it is harmful to your chess but - like going to a gym and leaving out one of the important exercises - it isn't developing the ability to visualize a position and think through continuations in your head. And as this is such an important ability in OTB chess I would argue that overuse of the analyze feature reduces the training benefit of playing chess on this site.
It would suit me to have the facility to turn off this function with two or three steps or even a password required to turn it back on. Like hiding the cigarettes in the loft - so they're there if you need them but not so near that you can just take one out of habit.
Originally posted by MahoutYou know, I just decided to quit analyzing board!!! 😠You convinced me, that's really bad! I cant play otb as much as I would like, when I do I make stupid blunders which I dont see in my correspondence games very often... I have the feeling that, "in real life", I really suck
I think addictive is the right word as I've tried to give it up several times but only seem to stop for a couple of days. Then I allow myself just one go on it for some specific reason and before you know it I'm back to my old habit of using it all the time.
Now I don't believe it is harmful to your chess but - like going to a gym and leaving out one of ...[text shortened]... so they're there if you need them but not so near that you can just take one out of habit.
I'm one point short to reach 1500 for the first time, but what I'm really looking for is to improve my game... so whatever!
Let's see how much it will fall.....
and if I can take it 😛
I think it is very useful during difficult tactical exchanges, compared to over the board where your opponent can find a freak resource half way through which you could not see in your head - the analysis board helps to avoid that possibility if you check each position well.
Although, it can definately stunt your ability to calculate with your mind alone if you over use it. I usually try to form my first plans by inspection of the position and then, once I have something I like, I check it over properly with the analysis. This helps prevent losing the powers.
I try and formulate my plans and calculate as far as I can without using it at all. Once that's done, if the position warrants it I'll use the analysis board to recheck my calculations and maybe try and go a move or 2 deeper, depending on the variations. Although I rarely look at more than 2 or maybe 3 variations. Most of the time the position doesn't seem to warrant it so I don't bother with it at all.
Originally posted by monteirofQuestion: "Why do you play here at RHP?"
I think it is. I barely think and already start to move the pieces... that's not very good to improve OTB, I guess.
Answer: "To improve my OTB skills!"
Then you should simulate the OTB environment as far as you can.
Set up the position at a real board, then set the clock so you can measure the time taken to reach a decision. Think thru the position and calculate all of it in your head. When you have ready to make your move, not it on your protocoll together with the time used, go to your computer and do the move.
This is a very practical way to improve your OTB skill. To only use the screen to see the position at hand is not OTB like, you should get used to the real board.
Alternative answer: "To improve my chess skills in general!"
Then use whatever means you have in hand, like opening or other books, databases, anylyze boards (but not, of course, chess engines!) Do this and you will be better in chess in general. This will make you better in OTB games, too.
A third answer: "To have fun!"
Then have fun! Chess is not a very serious business. You have a life too, care about your family and friends. But don't forget to go to your local chess club, chess cafe, or library, to play chess as much as you want, to have fun!
But, this is important, RHP *** is *** a correspondence chess site, and should be concidered as that one too. The best way to improve the OTB skills is to play OTB.
I have fun, and I hope it will improve my general chess skills as well, but the fun part is he most important!
I have just found the analysis feature! It is already becoming addictive.
It depends on why you are playing, if you just want to be good at cc then use it, that is why it is there.
perhaps it would be best to calculate in your head. Write down the variations and then use the analysis board to check?