How to Use a Chess Clock – Simple OTB Guide (With or Without Increment)

The chess clock looks intimidating until you learn the one rule that matters: make your move clearly, then press your side.

Pillar hub: Your First Chess Tournament – OTB Guide

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✅ The Basic Routine (99% of It)

• Think while your clock is running.
• Make your move on the board.
• Press your side of the clock to start your opponent’s time.

Many players use the same hand for moving and pressing (keeps it consistent).

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⏱ Common Time Controls

• Rapid: 10+0, 15+10, 25+0, etc.
• Classical: longer sessions, often with increments

For a calm improvement time control: Rapid Chess Strategy – The Sweet Spot

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➕ What “Increment” Means (Like 15+10)

Increment adds a small amount of time after each move (e.g. +10 seconds). It reduces “flagging chaos” and rewards steady play.

• With increment, endgames are more playable.
• You still must manage time early — burning everything is still a disaster.

Related habit: Rapid Chess Time Management – A Calm Clock Plan

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⚠ Common Clock Mistakes (Easy to Avoid)

• Pressing the clock before completing your move
• Forgetting to press (your time keeps running)
• Making a move with one hand and pressing with the other in a messy way
• Panicking when low on time instead of simplifying

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🧠 A Calm Mini-Rule When Low on Time

• Reduce candidate moves to 2
• Do a fast safety check (hangs? checks? simple tactics?)
• Prefer moves that reduce opponent counterplay

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🔗 Continue in the Tournament Cluster

• OTB Tournament Etiquette
• How to Write Moves (Scoresheet)
• Nerves & Focus
• Rules Basics

👉 Back to First Tournament Hub

👉 Back to Main Topics Index