09 Jul 08
1 edit
Here is a novel idea. Rather than spending lots of money
"booking up" on the latest opening theory, it might be better to spend our time studying our favorite openings, with an idea of finding our own improvements. I don't have the exact quote, but when Karpov was asked what advise he would give to aspiring
players, he said: Don't forget the old games! Finding improvments
on old theory will give you a big advantage over your opponents.
Sound like a plan?
09 Jul 08
Originally posted by bill718I think understanding the moves behind opening theory (ie development, basic strategy & tactics) & more importantly why when your opponent deviates from "book" moves they are probably not making optimal moves.
Here is a novel idea. Rather than spending lots of money
"booking up" on the latest opening theory, it might be better to spend our time studying our favorite openings, with an idea of finding our own improvements. I don't have the exact quote, but when Karpov was asked what advise he would give to aspiring
players, he said: Don't forget the old games! ...[text shortened]... nts
on old theory will give you a big advantage over your opponents.
Sound like a plan?
A classic example at your (& indeed sometimes my) level is 1.e4 c5 2.Bc4?
Understanding what's wrong with 2.Bc4? in the Sicilian rather than trying to come up with a deviation at move 26 of the Dragon/Yugoslav Attack is time much better spent IMO.
Play the book moves, but try to understand the openings 🙂