Chessworld.net founded in 2000 is an online chess site.
If you would like to play relaxed, friendly online chess, then...
or

Create & Exploit Weaknesses, Build Outposts

• Provoke Pawn Weaknesses

  Force your opponent to push pawns that leave permanent holes in their camp. Even one unnecessary pawn move can create long-term targets.

• Fix Weak Pawns

  Lock enemy weaknesses in place with your pawns or pieces so they can no longer advance or defend themselves. Fixed weaknesses are easier to attack later.

• Exploit Open Files

  When pawns move, open files often emerge. Place rooks and queens on these files to attack weaknesses from a distance.

• Identify Key Outpost Squares

  Outposts are squares protected by your pawns but cannot be challenged by opponent pawns. A knight on an outpost can dominate the entire board.

• Exchange to Favor Your Outpost

  Trade off pieces that could challenge your outpost. For example, if you plant a knight on d5, exchange your opponent’s dark-squared bishop to secure it.

• Build a Plan Around the Weakness

  Once you identify a weakness, shape your middlegame plan around it. Repeated pressure often forces concessions or material gains.

• Create Multiple Targets

  Don’t settle for one weakness if you can create two. The “principle of two weaknesses” stretches defenses and usually breaks them down.

• Use Bishops and Knights Effectively

  Bishops can attack weaknesses on long diagonals, while knights excel when planted on strong outposts where they cannot be dislodged.

• Convert Pressure into Advantage

  Sustained pressure should eventually lead to either material gain or a superior endgame. Don’t relax once you’ve built an outpost — look for ways to cash in.

• Learn from Model Games

  Study games where masters exploited weaknesses like isolated pawns or used powerful knight outposts. These classics offer timeless lessons in positional play.