Instead of passively defending, create your own threats. Sometimes an active counterattack forces your opponent to back off and defend instead.
Placing a piece between an attacker and its target can neutralize pressure instantly. Interference sacrifices can be lifesaving in desperate positions.
When behind, continuous checks can secure a draw. Knowing how to force perpetual check is essential for saving many otherwise lost games.
Even when down material, building a fortress structure can make progress impossible for your opponent. Recognizing fortress setups is a valuable defensive skill.
Under pressure, simplify by exchanging your opponent’s most dangerous attacking pieces. Reducing firepower is often the fastest route to safety.
Give your king breathing space with a pawn move like h3 or h6. Prevents sudden back rank mates and provides escape routes during an attack.
Don’t just defend passively. Look for ways to activate your pieces, even in cramped positions. Activity often outweighs static weaknesses.
Resourceful players find traps even in bad positions. Offer material or set tactical problems that may confuse your opponent in time pressure.
In some endgames, careful waiting moves can shift the burden to your opponent, forcing them into zugzwang and saving the game.
Above all, don’t give up too early. Staying calm under fire lets you spot defensive tactics that might completely change the result.