You can use the Forum testing area to experiment with any of the posting techniques mentioned below.
This is not a private area and other Members may visit that Forum and will be able to observe your testing!
To represent a chess position in a forum post, simply enter:
position[first part of FEN string]
The first part of a FEN string represents the position of the pieces on the board. For example, if you have a White King on a8 and a Black King on h1, the board would be represented as:
K7/8/8/8/8/8/8/7k
This notation shows a White King followed by 7 empty squares on the top rank, and so on. Use uppercase for White pieces (KQBNRP) and lowercase for Black pieces (kqbnrp). The `/` character separates each rank.
Example 1: Starting position:
position[rnbqkbnr/pppppppp/8/8/8/8/PPPPPPPP/RNBQKBNR]
Example 2: After 1.e4 c5 (Sicilian Defense):
position[rnbqkbnr/pp1ppppp/8/2p5/4P3/8/PPPP1PPP/RNBQKBNR]
You can get FEN strings using the Analyse or Play through boards. If you want to set up your own position, use the Generic analysis board via Improve ... Coaching Resources.
For more help, see: Q. Is there a board where I can play through games from a book or magazine? in the Playing section of the Chess FAQs.
Just enclose your move sequence in [[ ]]
. For example:
Example 1:
[[1.e4 c5]]
Example 2: A longer game:
Speelman,J (2583) - Cooper,J (2318) [A06] 4NCL/Div1/SWD1-WG1 Rd01-West Bromwich (1.2), 23.11.2002 [[1.Nf3 d5 2.b3 c5 3.e3 Nc6 4.Bb5 Bg4 5.h3 Bh5 6.Ba3 e6 7.c4 Bd6 8.cxd5 exd5 9.Bxc6+ bxc6 10.Nc3 Nf6 11.Rc1 0-0 12.Na4 c4 13.Bxd6 Qxd6 14.bxc4 d4 15.g4 Nxg4 16.hxg4 Bxg4 17.Rg1 Bxf3 18.Qxf3 Qa3 19.Qd1 Rab8 20.Rg3 Rfe8 21.Kf1 dxe3 22.Rxe3 Qd6 23.Nc3 1-0]]
Note: Only enclose the move list in [[ ]]
, not the header information.
You can insert a collapsible hint using:
[hint]This is the Hint[/hint]
Example 1:
[hint]Check out Qxh7+[/hint]
Example 2:
[hint]His name begins with B![/hint]
Note: You cannot use double quotes ("
) inside hints. For apostrophes, use a backslash escape:
Example 3:
[hint]Today\'s the day, let\'s start to play.[/hint]
This feature works only in the main ChessWorld Forums. It is not supported in Game Forums, the Play page, or Homepage messages.
You can quote from a posting by clicking the Quote link just below the message. In your reply, the original message will appear in a framed block and include identifying tags.
Example:
[quote="their name"] What was in the message. [/quote]
To keep the message readable, consider editing the quote content. Just make sure you don’t delete the tags: [quote="their name"] and [/quote].
To indicate edits, use an ellipsis …
. You can also insert clarifying words in square brackets.
[quote="their name"] You can quote … the original … [but] … we suggest that you … indicate where the message has been edited...[/quote]
For long messages, you may split quotes and respond part-by-part:
[quote="their name"] You can quote ... the original ...[/quote]
Be cautious with deep quote nesting — too many layers reduce readability and dilute your message’s impact.
Use shortcut codes followed by an =
sign and the identifying number.
Example – to link to game 100000:
gm=100000
Available Shortcuts:
gm - Game tm - Team ll* - League po - Poll pl - Player st - Specialised Tournament dt - Default Tournament xat - Annotated game pu - Puzzle ko - Knockout Tournament lx - League Division CrossTable gp - Game (play through)
These shortcut tools appear just below the reply input box. Once submitted, they become clickable links.
Yes. In forum threads, below the poster’s name, you’ll see this icon:
and a Topics started link.
Clicking that takes you to the
You can also click
Note: Posts to the confidential HelpDesk forum are not shown.
ChessWorld aims to maintain a respectful environment. Posts may be rejected if they contain words or expressions that could be interpreted as offensive or spam-like.
We also block certain website references and HTML-related terms (even embedded in longer words). For instance, the word description contains the substring script, which may trigger filters.
To avoid rejection, consider:
The list of excluded terms is confidential and subject to change without notice. It is not publicly disclosed, and decisions regarding content are final and non-negotiable.
No! ChessWorld welcomes contributions to all Forums, but posts must follow our Terms and Conditions. Content should always be appropriate to the specific Forum.
In particular, the ChessWorld Café is intended for non-controversial discussion, though mature discussions are encouraged.
Posts that violate the Terms or are inappropriate may result in loss of posting privileges.
Full access to all Forums is a benefit of Full Membership.
Guest Members can view only a limited set of Forums (e.g. articles and chess discussions). However, the HelpDesk is accessible to all Members.
There are two main methods:
The first method: On the Forums ... Latest Posts page, use the Keyword search at the top to find threads. Below each topic, the Search keywords link lets you explore specific word usage within the Latest Posts pages.
You can refine your search at the top of the Search Keywords page by clearing the default thread name and entering your own keywords. This lets you search across all Latest Posts content. You’ll also see Search by keyword links for each word in a topic title.
The second method: Use the Google™ powered search box found on the Chess Forum and Suggestions Forum index pages, or at the top of each thread in the Suggestions Forum.
Enter your keyword(s) and press
Search results will look like: [keyword] site:www.letsplaychess.com or site:www.chessworld.net. You may edit the domain if you wish to search another site using the same keywords.
** HelpDesk and Social Forum posts cannot be searched. **
To subscribe, visit a Forum and click the
To unsubscribe, click the
If a Member replies to a Forum post you’ve made, you’ll receive an Email notification — regardless of your subscription status.
This is a built-in courtesy feature and cannot be disabled. If you prefer not to receive such Emails, consider refraining from posting unless necessary.
At the top of every thread, you’ll see a link: If you see anything that you find offensive, please report it to the Helpdesk forum.
Clicking this link generates a message containing technical info about the thread. Don’t alter this data. Instead, explain clearly what you found offensive, and specify the user or post in question.
Insufficient reports cannot be acted on. The report goes directly to the HelpDesk and is treated as confidential.
ChessWorld values your help in keeping Forums respectful and enjoyable for all.
No! We strongly advise against posting your email address on any public ChessWorld or Internet forum. Doing so could expose you to spam or malicious activity.
If you trust your opponent, consider sending your email via a direct message — never through the in-game message box, as those are viewable by all Members.
In rare cases where you need to send your email to the HelpDesk, rest assured that all HelpDesk messages are completely confidential and visible only to Admins.
First, check the Help ... menu and the detailed FAQ pages. You may also find help by posting in the Site Related Forums — many Members are happy to assist.
However, if your query is private or sensitive, the HelpDesk is the appropriate place. All HelpDesk messages are confidential between you and Site Admins.
Tips for effective HelpDesk use:
*** Insufficient information can delay resolution, as we may have to contact you again for details.
*** After submitting, check Help ... My HelpDesk Posts for a reply. You’ll also receive an email notification.
*** If a follow-up is needed, reply on the same thread — don’t start a new one.
Remember – one topic = one thread.
To ensure high-quality support, there’s a limit on the number of new threads you can start at the HelpDesk within a 24-hour period. This discourages users from splitting related issues across multiple threads.
There is no limit on the number of replies you can make on an existing thread.
Maintaining thread continuity helps Admins provide quicker and more accurate responses.
Annotations can only be requested for completed games.
You can locate your games on the Play ... My Completed Games page. Each game has a
To ensure quality, Members may request no more than 5 annotations in any 30-day period.
We recommend submitting games that you lost or drew, as these are often more instructive. Clearly describe what feedback you're looking for — this helps Annotators provide more meaningful analysis.
The Visual Annotation feature lets you mark a board with arrows, lines, circles, and squares to highlight ideas or tactics—ideal for coaching or discussion. It’s simple to use and doesn’t require programming knowledge.
Starting:
View a board with the desired position (e.g. a forum post board or a board created via a FEN string). For example, to load a board for testing, post this in the Forum testing area:
position[1r2r1k1/p4ppp/2pq4/8/2P5/2N1R3/P2P1P2/2RQ1K2]
Markers:
Colors: You may use: Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Grey, White.
Example: [color]red[/color]
Board Coordinates:
Squares are identified as (x,y), with 1–8 in both directions. a1 is (1,1), g8 is (8,8), and so on.
e4 = 5,4 c6 = 3,6
You can use fractional values (e.g., 6.5,4.5) to mark between squares, though this is discouraged for squares/fills.
Commands:
Use the format: [command]values[/command]
Always use square brackets and write each command on a new line.
Examples:
With just a little practice, visual annotation becomes easy and powerful!
ChessWorld welcomes game suggestions for the Masters Collection. PGN scores (Portable Game Notation) are usually public domain and acceptable. However, annotations and commentary are considered intellectual property.
To post annotated games:
By submitting such content, you agree to take full responsibility for ensuring proper rights were obtained.
Check all PGN entries carefully — correct player names, tournament/event names, and locations are essential for publication in the Masters Collection.
There are a number of commonly used shorthand codes that make the work of the Annotator easier and inform the reader. Although it is possible to use specific symbols, these are dependent upon the fonts available to the end user. For maximum compatibility, we recommend the following selection using common keyboard characters:
1-0 Black resigns 0-1 White resigns 1/2-1/2 Draw agreed + Check ++ Mate (# is also used) +- White is winning += White is slightly better +/- White is clearly better -+ Black is winning =+ Black is slightly better -/+ Black is clearly better
You can use the
For a comprehensive list of symbols refer to the
Chess annotation symbols page.
Perhaps the simplest advice is to read a number of annotations by other players before starting on your own.
Ideally, an annotation should be instructive without being over-complex. It should explain the reasons for specific positions, and how they may be exploited or improved. If any variations are introduced, they should be presented in a way that retains clear meaning.
One common weakness is where an Annotator uses an engine to assist in their analysis and then includes lengthy sequences of computer-generated moves with no explanation. This is not helpful to most Members.
The following annotated fragment from the game
Maroczy vs. Pillsbury 1896
illustrates a typical approach that is both illustrative and informative:
Yes. Although ChessWorld does not allow the use of an engine during actual play, there is no objection to using one for post-game analysis.
Engine exploration can be instructive, but including complex lines without explanation offers little value. As a courtesy, it’s helpful to add a brief final note acknowledging the engine used.
To protect your annotation while it's in progress, include
This prevents it from being deleted in our regular checks and hides it from other members. We also recommend keeping a separate copy until the annotation is complete.
You can revisit and update your annotations at any time. Annotations with minimal or irrelevant content may be removed at our discretion.
Yes. Many players like to prepare annotations while the game is ongoing. Use the
Notes are stored in the planning area. The Game Introduction field will contain
The Comment box below the board allows you to tie comments and variations to specific moves.
Be sure to enable the Automatically store option to avoid data loss.
As stated in our Terms and Conditions, engine use is strictly prohibited while a game is in progress.
Yes. You should regularly back up your work. While copy/paste is an option, use the Annotation Notepad's built-in buttons:
Yes. Use the Comment input box below the Annotation Notepad board to enter variations in as much detail as you wish. Once you are satisfied with the content, press the To avoid going through the 'submit' process unnecessarily you may, if you wish, make use of the When you press the If you wish to discuss some possible alternative moves within an ordinary comment, then that is simple to achieve. For example, you may wish to enter something like: However, you may wish to make such variations clickable to assist the reader in visualising your comments more easily. In that case, you need to enclose the same sentence in brackets, thus: There are no fixed rules, as the ChessWorld Annotation feature is designed to be easy to use for all Members, and is therefore quite tolerant of minor user errors. In the interests of clarity for the reader we recommend the following guidelines. The standard abbreviations for the names of the pieces may be used but they must always be in uppercase, otherwise the entry will be invalid. If a proposed move involves the taking of a piece, then, conventionally, the move would be written Nxf3, however, the shorter version Nf3 or even f3f5 is also acceptable, but, perhaps a little less helpful to the reader. You could consider inserting a quite complex sequence, such as: It is possible to use either normal parentheses, ( ), or square brackets, [ ], as long as each opening bracket is matched by a closing bracket. You could even mix the brackets and still show a clickable variation, although we do not recommend such a strategy! If you wish to show a move for White, use syntax like 12.Ne5 — the point In all cases, follow conventions and include appropriate spacing for clarity. Yes. The guidelines above also apply, but, in addition, you can selectively number your different variations, as follows: Note the use of the colon ':' after the variation number. Do not use a parenthesis for the label, or the variation may not be clickable. A space between the number and variation is optional but improves readability. To display variations on separate lines, input them as such in your annotation. To prevent the sequence from starting on the same line as the initial move, begin with a line break. No. Although the appearance of, and access to, some of the screens may vary, the underlying software is identical and all of the guidelines discussed within this section are fully applicable. No. At the present time there is no facility for a Member to delete an annotation that has been started. However, to achieve the same effect, if you include the words Annotation in progress in the text — preferably at or near the beginning of the Game Introduction box — your content will not be visible to any other Member. Yes. Go to your Homepage and open the It is possible to copy many ChessWorld pages by using the built-in features of your computer and browser. However, you should be aware that the ChessWorld annotation feature is designed to be usable for Members and is not fully compatible with the normal PGN standard. Any copies you make may not function as expected with your own software. ChessWorld cannot offer any advice regarding either conversion to, or compatibility with, your own software. This Icon will appear on your play page once you have completed at least one full annotation. Your Opponent(s), or other Members, can click on the Icon and be taken to your annotation(s). You should be aware that if, at the absolute discretion of ChessWorld, your submission is regarded as trivial or lacking in thoughtful comment, it may be removed without prior notice. In this case, and if you have only completed the one annotation, then the Icon would automatically be removed from your play page. Go to the Improve ... menu and select the Puzzles option. The ChessWorld Puzzles page offers two options at the top: If you want to try a puzzle without filters, scroll down the page to see many listed puzzles. In the right-hand column, four puzzle types are available: Go to the Improve ... menu and select the Puzzles option. On the ChessWorld Puzzles page, scroll down to find a puzzle offering Rated Interactive in the right-hand column. Alternatively, click the Rated Puzzle system link at the top to see a numeric list of rated puzzles. The board will update when you click on a puzzle number. Use drag and drop to move pieces on the board. Once selected, a pop-up will appear prompting you to Click OK. Click the You’ll see a brief note indicating the color to move. If you need help, click the If you press the Go to the Community ... Annotated Games page. To play a specially created puzzle, click the Annotated Puzzles link. Select a game and click the Interactive Version link. You may be able to start from different positions within the game. To play through a full Masters game interactively, find one from the list or use the filters. Select the game and click the Interactive Version link. When a correct move is played, a Incorrect moves may trigger a helpful Hint. If you're stuck, two buttons will appear: Select the game you want and click the If you only want to use a fragment, move to the relevant move or half-move and begin annotation. Add hints by writing them at the start of the comment, using Hint and ending with When using a fragment, complete the Optionally for interactive version to create puzzles ... box at the bottom. This ensures the puzzle starts at the right moment. You can create multiple puzzles from the same game using different starting half-moves. Example: Remember: White to play corresponds to an odd half-move number. Yes. If a pawn reaches a promotion square, a pop-up will appear offering options in this sequence: Queen, Q Rook, R Bishop, B Knight, N When your desired choice is displayed, click After completing the puzzle, or running out of time, you may wish to have another chance to solve it—though this will not affect your performance rating. Click on My Scores at the top of the page. Depending on your result, choose one of the following links: If you solved the puzzle, click Most recent puzzles attempted or 1st attempt solved. Find the Puzzle ID, click View in the Statistics column, and then select Retry Puzzle on the right side of the screen. If you timed out, use the Timed out Puzzles link to locate the failed attempts and retry using Retry Puzzle #nnnn. When the pop-up says You have already tried this puzzle before. click No. Only you can access your individual puzzle stats. Other Members can only view aggregated data with no personally identifiable breakdown. Your performance remains private unless you choose to share it with friends or post on a Forum. ChessWorld respects your privacy and does not publish identifiable puzzle data. On the Rated Puzzles page, click the My weaknesses link. This opens the unique ChessWorld Puzzle Weakness Analysis page. On the left, you'll see Tactical Methods where you've struggled, including how many puzzles you’ve attempted and relevant Puzzle IDs. Click a Puzzle ID to retry. Yes. Solving puzzles provides valuable insight. Even if you succeed, reviewing solutions helps clarify unclear elements. Click the Tactics Articles link at the top of the page to access material written by a FIDE-rated player for further learning. Hopefully this won’t happen—but if you spot an error or alternative solution, use the Feedback link and post in the Forum. Be sure to include the Puzzle number, otherwise resolution will be delayed. Yes. Go to Improve ... > Puzzles, then click Rated Puzzle system and finally Create new puzzle. You’ll see a board with pieces in the starting position. To start from a blank board, click Add pieces by clicking them from the side panel and placing them on the board. To remove a piece, click it then click the waste bin. Ensure both kings are on the board. When ready, press Next, complete the ChessWorld Puzzle Add form and review your setup. If needed, click Fill in: Enter the solution on the mini-board and fill out additional details below. Once done, press If your ChessWorld rating is below 1600, the Create new puzzle link will not be available. These icons are awarded once you successfully complete at least 5 rated puzzles. Afterward, the icon will appear next to your name on the playing page. When another Member hovers over it, they will see something like: This player has successfully solved more than 5 rated puzzles – xx rated puzzles. The 'xx' value updates as you attempt more puzzles, but the number of successful attempts is not updated—this is an achievement badge, not a rating. Only Rated Interactive puzzles count toward the icon. Solving Unrated Interactive, Normal puzzles, or the Puzzle of the Day will not contribute. To compare your performance, click Community at the top of the Rated Puzzle page. By default, you’ll see your stats compared to the last 1000 entries. You can adjust this threshold using links at the top. Scroll down to see the Top 100 Full Member Puzzle solvers, which also updates based on your threshold settings.
Yes! ChessWorld provides sound effects for a more engaging experience, but you can turn them off if you prefer silence. Click the Turn Sound On or Turn Sound Off link at the top of the page. The basic 'default beep' cannot be disabled via the site. To disable that, you’ll need to adjust your computer’s system settings—please refer to your system's help files for guidance. The ChessWorld Masters Collection includes over two million high-quality games by past and present chess masters. It supports a variety of ChessWorld features designed to instruct, inspire, and help Members improve by studying top-level tactics and strategies. Both features use the Masters Collection but with different purposes: Each feature is explained in more detail below in their respective sections. The Advanced Search box on the Masters Collection page can be used freely by combining any of the available filters. Some filters have dropdowns for ease of use, but manual entry is also allowed. Use the right-hand filter panel to define ranges using From..., To..., or Equal... values. Ensure the left value is smaller than the right, or you’ll get a No games found! message. For ECO codes: 'A' is lower than 'B'; within letters, A55 < A88. If all three boxes are filled, the Equal... value is used. Click Yes, the Quick Search option at the top of the Masters Collection homepage offers multiple simplified search modes: Enter comma-separated fields: White surname, Black surname, Year, Number of moves Examples: Select Enter a descriptor like Blockade. Click Search sequences in first 20 moves. Use Examples: Select Enter the name of the tournament location (e.g., Southend) Click Use the GameID found in the URL or by hovering over Game Options. Click Enter like: Adams,Michael. Use exact name for better accuracy. Select Enter a code like C11. Valid range: A00–E99. Select Paste a valid PGN score. Clean line breaks for best results. Example PGN (shortened for space): Click This unique ChessWorld feature allows you to input moves by clicking a piece and then the destination square. Informative comments will update automatically based on the position. When satisfied, click If you make a mistake, use You can also enter a FEN string into the FEN position box and click Tick the Hide Filter Header box in the Results style row, then click Click the To ensure consistent performance for all Members, ChessWorld may limit search results. Use more specific filters to refine your query and reduce the result size. If the site is busy and your search is too broad, the process may time out. Try again after a short wait. If the issue persists, contact the HelpDesk with full details so it can be investigated. Use the Quick pick links or search for a specific Master. You'll be taken to the ChessWorld – Play like the Master page. You can jump forward/back 10 moves, and switch sides via the Switch sides link. Set your preference for how many attempts before hints are shown (1, 2, or 3). If needed, use Click the Scores link to compare results. To keep your results private, use the Remove from public view option and confirm the action as required. Visit the Videos menu to explore the Kingscrusher YouTube Chess Channel. The free library includes thousands of master game analyses and instructional content. Use the dropdown menu to select a topic, and you'll be taken to a page with related video links. Yes. Go to the Learn from the Masters page, then click Master Tools, and finally Great Game Kibitzing. You’ll see a list of games with commentary. Check the post count to gauge activity. You may also comment on any game privately or publicly. Open the Learn from the Masters page and click the Master Tools link. Then click the World Champions link to view a list of champions since 1886. There's also a list for Women World Champions starting from 1927. Each champion has a link to their games in the Masters Collection. Many also include biographies or links to selected notable games. Go to Learn from the Masters → Master Tools → ECO Navigator. This tool lets you explore opening trends over 100+ years or even from the 15th century. Clicking on an ECO code like B20, Sicilian Defence opens a filtered Masters Collection view showing relevant games and top players of that variation. From the Learn from the Masters page, click Master Tools → FIDE Players A–Z. Select by letter or two-letter prefix for faster search. By default, FIDE title holders are shown. To see all FIDE players, click All players. Use Back to A–Z to return. Click a player name to view their games in the Masters Collection. Click FIDE card to see their latest FIDE stats. From Learn from the Masters → Master Tools, click Year Navigator. You'll see a list of years with the number of games recorded. Earlier years may have fewer games, but they are often of high historical value. From 1900 onward, coverage becomes extensive. Once a year is selected, you'll see all tournaments listed by date/location. Use filters to show only tournaments with a certain minimum number of games. After selecting a tournament, you'll be shown all related games in a refreshed Masters Collection view, including ranking, scores, and insights. Yes. Open the Learn from the Masters page and click Master Tools, then click Tournaments. You can choose a Master and then the Tournament you'd like to study. Adjust the minimum number of games (1–1000) to narrow results. Use the alphabetic or multi-letter selectors to filter tournaments by name. After choosing a year, tournaments are listed by date/location. Choose one to view all its games, along with statistical summaries like ranking and score breakdowns. Go to Learn from the Masters → Master Tools → Brilliancies. This opens a list of Brilliancy Prize–winning games from the past century. Note: if you use the search filter after loading this page, it will reset the list. Use Masters Collection → Brilliancies to return to the original list. Yes. You can annotate games to help others. Open the Advanced Search page and click Annotation requests to find games Members want annotated. Click Annotate next to a game to access the annotation board. For more help, refer to the Annotations section in this FAQ. Note: If your ChessWorld rating is below 1900, the Annotate link will not be available. Open Learn from the Masters → Master Tools → Latest Annotated Positions. This provides a list of annotated games, organized by opening and move order. Click the PGN link to view the related games in the Masters Collection. These are curated selections of high-level or classic games for easy access. You can play through them or take the challenge of replicating the moves. Completed games are automatically removed from your Quick list, helping you progress through the selection without needing to track them manually. There are two types: Open the Learn from the Masters page and click on the Master Tools link. The Endgame Search link provides you with a convenient means to select and study games with specific combinations of pieces. You may enter the designated pieces manually, in descending order of value – Q R B N P, in the White pieces and Black pieces boxes. Enter the pieces for White in uppercase (e.g., 2R+1B) and lowercase for Black (e.g., 2r+1b). There is no need to enter K or k as they are added automatically. Alternatively, use the pre-selected choices in the Select from below boxes, which list nearly 70 combinations with their frequency. Whatever method you use, you must specify pieces for both White and Black. You can also filter by Master using the Select White or Select Black dropdowns. Note that no results may appear if the selected Master hasn't played with those combinations—try a different one. Learning isn’t always easy, but ChessWorld offers a series of instructional videos based on games from the Masters Collection. Many games are also annotated. To access these, open the Learn from the Masters page, click Master Tools, then Most Instructive Masters. You'll see a list of players chosen for instructive play. The list updates over time based on available videos and annotations. Click on a Master's name to view a homepage showing up to three videos. More videos are linked below the display area. These are designed to provide helpful commentary and insight. The same page also includes game listings by year and by color played. Use the Annotated Games link for games with commentary, each with a short introduction from the annotator. Select a player from the Masters Collection and go to their Homepage. There, use the White vs Champions or Black vs Champions link. These links show relevant games in reverse chronological order, highlighting any wins over World Champions. Click any game to view it move-by-move. Yes. On any player's Homepage, click White Upsets or Black Upsets. You'll see a list of major upsets (typically with 50+ FIDE rating difference), ordered by rating gap in descending order. Open the Improve menu and select the Masters Collection link. To export a game in PGN format from ChessWorld, simply use the You can copy and paste this into a word processor. For simplicity, we recommend a text editor like Notepad. Save it in plain text format with a filename such as "My best game.pgn".txt. The saved file will appear as My best game.pgn. Alternative methods to export PGNs from completed games: Once you've saved a PGN file, you can import it into any major chess program. For example, in ChessBase, simply double-click the file to open and import it for analysis or replay. To import a PGN file into a program like Fritz: The game will be fully available for analysis using Fritz’s features. Note: Use of chess engines to assist in live games violates ChessWorld rules. See our Terms and Conditions for full details. Yes. In ChessBase, select a game and use Edit ... Copy → Copy Game or Copy Position. Paste the result into your forum post. Other software may offer similar options like Copy notation to clipboard. To post a playable game in the forum: You can also include annotations in curly braces (e.g., If the post exceeds the character limit, it may not display correctly. A game with around 100 moves and no comments should remain under the limit. This allows you to start a new discussion thread in a forum and invite comments. This option is only available for the first post in a new thread—it cannot be inserted into an existing thread. Use standard PGN format, copy only the move list (no headers), and enclose it within triple square brackets. For example: The game will be shown with an empty comment box directly above the post. New comments appear below, most recent first. Recommended subject line formats: A concise explanation is available at the Wikipedia page:
Portable Game Notation. For full technical details, refer to the ICC PGN specification page:
this ICC page. The default BookFinder search box opens to Amazon.com, though availability may vary by regional Amazon sites. You can also explore: To write a review: You will be taken to the Chess Book Reviewers Forum where you can compose and edit your post as many times as needed. Others can view but not reply to your draft. This forum isn’t listed in the standard menus. To return later: Once ready, remove the top placeholder content (everything above the ====== line) and click Note: There is a posting length limit. See Q. What length restrictions are there on Message and Forum posts? for details. To request a review, go to your homepage or the Books owned by Members list and click the Open the BookFinder page and choose one of the links: Books owned by Members, Most Popular books, or Biggest Collectors. These display various book lists. If you find a book you already own and want to add it to your collection, click the title, then on the next page click:
Do you own this book? Click HERE to indicate that you own this book. To remove a book later, go to your Homepage, open the We cannot recommend a specific spreadsheet program due to differences in user setups. However, our preconfigured spreadsheets are based on Google Sheets, which is freely available to Gmail or Google account holders. You can also visit Google Sheets to create a free account. We also provide separated variable text files that can be imported into Google Sheets or any modern spreadsheet software. For more help, consult Google’s own documentation. Yes. We offer preconfigured spreadsheets in Google Sheets format, including indexes like our YouTube video guide. You may also export your personal game records as separated variable text files for use in your own spreadsheet programs. When you first open one of our spreadsheets, it's still 'owned' by ChessWorld. You’ll be able to view it, but not modify it. To gain full access: Your copy is saved automatically and will be available next time you log into Google Sheets. To manage your files: You can sort the sheet by any column to rearrange the data as you prefer. Click the column header (A, B, C, etc.), then click the ▼ icon on the right side of the header. Choose your desired sort option. For large spreadsheets, sorting may take a few moments. ChessWorld spreadsheets typically have the first two rows frozen and merged for readability. To move columns, you may need to: Unmerge cells: Select the row, then go to Format → Merge cells → Unmerge. Unfreeze rows: Select the row, then go to View → Freeze → No rows. After this, you can rearrange columns: You can re-merge and re-freeze rows using the same menus when finished. Yes. Click the column header (A, B, C, etc.), then: The hyperlinks in our spreadsheets are tied to www.ChessWorld.net. If you're logged into a different domain (e.g., letsplaychess.com), a new login window will open for ChessWorld.net. Log in there to use the links. It refers to a text file format where data fields are separated using the pipe character Unlike commas or tabs (which may appear in chess data), the pipe character is rarely used in content, making it ideal for clean data separation. The pipe character Exported separated variable text files contain: The fields are separated using the pipe character Open the Play ... My Completed Games page in Summary view. Click the Export Pipe Delimited ... link to generate a separated variable text file. Once ready, copy and paste the contents into your local system using a text editor. We recommend naming it clearly, e.g., mydata.text. You can import this file into your spreadsheet application. Optionally, edit the file in a text editor to remove:
Instead of reloading all your data from scratch, you can simply append new rows to your existing spreadsheet. Follow these steps: Step 1: Use the Export ... feature to get your new data. If needed, remove unwanted lines from the separated variable file before proceeding. Step 2: When importing, set the import option to Append rows to current sheet instead of Create new spreadsheet. This adds new data at the bottom. Step 3: Insert blank rows at the top of the sheet, adding a few extra rows as a buffer. Step 4: Cut the newly added rows from the bottom and paste them into the top. Be careful not to overwrite existing data. You can delete any buffer rows afterward. Your revised spreadsheet is now ready to use and modify as needed! A ChessWorld tag is a keyword or label that helps you identify and organize different aspects of games. Much like Gmail labels, they help you easily find similar or related games. ChessWorld encourages Members to tag games from the Masters Collection that interest them. This helps both you and others easily find and categorize valuable or insightful games. Yes. While you're free to create your own tag names, please check if a suitable one already exists to maintain consistency and usefulness for other Members. To check: By default, this shows the Recommended Tags list, but other options are available. If you see a tag that suits your needs, simply use that exact tag in the input box on the game you're tagging. If no existing tag suits your purpose, you may create a new one—but please use correct spelling to ensure discoverability. To tag a game, such as one from the Masters Collection: This opens a dialog where you can: You can reuse an existing tag or create a new one in the input box and click Add tag. Your tag will then appear in your list for that game. To remove a tag, click on it in your list so it populates the input box, then click Remove tag. This special icon can only be awarded by the WebMaster, sometimes with input from the Admin team. It recognizes Members who: The icon may also be granted using the ChessWorld Goodies feature, but that version is not tied to suggestions and is not visible to general Members.
! Good move
!! Superb, or very good, move
? Bad move
!? Controversial, or interesting, move
?! Dubious move
?? Poor move, or blunder
Q. What should I do to provide a good annotation?
12. ... Bf6 Attacking White's unprotected c3-pawn, and, beyond it, White's Queen's Rook, an attack that White ...
13.d6! ... completely ignores!
c6 Black can't play [13. ... Bxc3 because of 14.dxc7 Qf6 15.cxb8=Q Rxb8 16.Bxb8 Bxa1 17.Qxa1] and Black has lost two pieces.
Better than the text might be [13. ... cxd6, when play might continue 14.Bb3 as in the game, and if 14. ... Bxc3 15.Ng5 Qf6
[15. ... Bxa1? 16.Bxf7+ Kh8 17.Qh5 h6 18.Qg6 and Black is lost] 16.Bxf7+ Kh8 17.Qd3 g6 18.Qh3 h5 19.Bxg6 Qxg6 20.Qxc3+ Kg8 21.Rad1]
and White has what is probably a winning advantage.
So, back to move 13, Black must instead play, after [13. ... cxd6 14.Bb3 Be5, and after, say, 15.Bg5 Bf6 16.Re1 Rf8] Black has a playable game.
14.Bb3 This Bishop was doing little on a4, so Maroczy points it at f7, the perennial weak spot for Black.
Q. Can I use an engine to help me annotate a game?
Q. How can I prevent my unfinished annotation from being removed?
Annotation in progress
near the beginning of the Game Introduction box.
Q. Can I annotate my game while it is in progress?
Annotation in progress
to keep your work private. You can edit this after the game ends and your annotation is ready.
Q. Can I store my work until I have finished my annotation?
Q. Can I include variations in my annotation?
Perhaps the better move would be d2d4 rather than a1a2.
(Perhaps the better move would be d2d4 rather than a1a2.)
In the annotation the actual move, d2d4, would appear in the same color as a normal link and by clicking on it the board would refresh and show that particular position.Q. Are there any formatting rules when I add variations to my annotation?
11. ...Nxe7 12.Ne5 Qf6 13.Bxf7+ Kf8
If you entered that text in that format, without any enclosing brackets, it would appear as a comment. If this were not your intention then you should enclose the whole sequence in brackets, thus:
(11. ...Nxe7 12.Ne5 Qf6 13.Bxf7+ Kf8).
after the move number is essential. For a Black move, write 12. ... Qf6 with appropriate spacing. While formats like 12....Qf6 are accepted, they may lack clarity.Q. Can I add and label a series of variations, related to a particular move, to my annotation?
1: (15.Qa3+ c5 16.Nxc5 Kg8 17.Nxd3)
2: (15.Qa3+ d6 16.exd6 Kg8 17.dxc7)
3: (15.Qa3+ Kg8?? 16.Qe7 Bxf2+ 17.Kxf2 h6 18.Qxd8+ Kh7 19.Qxc7)
4: (15.Qa3+ Bc5?? 16.Qxc5+)
Q. Is there any difference between preparing annotations for unfinished and completed games?
Q. Can I delete an annotation that I have started?
Q. Can I delete an annotation request that I have made?
Q. Can I copy an annotated game from ChessWorld on to my own computer?
Q. How can I get an Annotators Icon?
ChessWorld Puzzles
Q. How can I use the ChessWorld Puzzle feature?
Q. How can I attempt to solve a rated puzzle?
Q. How can I try a Think Like the Masters puzzle?
Q. How can I create a Think Like the Masters puzzle?
::
. Example: Hint these are the hint comments here ::
Start of the Game
Half move number: 42 – Black to play
Half move number: 61 – White to play
Q. Can I promote a piece in a puzzle?
Q. How can I try again?
Most recent puzzles attempted | 1st attempt solved | Timed out Puzzles | My weaknesses
Q. Can other Members see my individual Puzzle statistics?
Q. How can I improve my puzzle solving skills?
Q. Can I use a Rated Puzzle to improve my playing ability?
Q. What should I do if I find an error in one of the solutions?
Q. Can I create and add a puzzle to the ChessWorld database?
Q. Why can't I create a puzzle?
Q. How can I get a Puzzle Icon?
The green icon appears if you’ve solved more than 5 rated puzzles.
The red icon shows if you’ve solved a puzzle in the last 30 days.
Q. Can I turn off the sound effects?
ChessWorld Masters Collection
Q. What is the Masters Collection?
Q. What is the difference between the Learn from the Masters and Play like the Masters features?
Q. How can I use the search filter at the top of the Masters Collection page?
Q. Is there a quick and easy way to search the Masters Collection?
1. Game Search
ada
ada,polg
ada,,2001
ada,polg,,43
2. Tag Search
3. Move Pattern Search
KQNBR
for White and kqnbr
for Black.Pe4pc5
(consecutive)
Pe4-pc5
(non-consecutive)
4. Tournament Search
5. Game Number Search
90600
6. Surname,Firstname
7. ECO Code
8. PGN Game Score
1. e4 e6 2. d4 d5 3. Nc3 Nf6 ...
Q. How can I use the game board in the search filter?
Q. How can I hide the search filter box at the top of the page?
Q. How can I show the search filter box?
Q. Why is my search limited to 1000 results?
Q. Why does my search sometimes fail?
Q. How can I use the Play like the Masters feature?
Q. How can I check for Chess videos?
Q. Can I kibitz on any Masters game?
This icon indicates that a ChessWorld video exists for the game. Click the title to view it.
Q. How can I find out more about World Champions?
Q. How can I use the ECO navigator?
Q. How can I check active FIDE Rated players?
Q. Can I find Tournament games from a particular year?
Q. Can I study the games from any Tournament?
Q. How can I find examples of Brilliancies?
Q. Can I annotate a Masters game?
Q. How can I find annotations based on specific positions?
Q. What are Quick Game Picks?
Q. What are the Collections?
Q. How can I use the Endgame Search link?
Q. Is there an easy way to learn from the Masters?
Q. How can I find out if a Master has played against World Champions?
Q. Can I find out if a player achieved a major upset against another player?
Q. How can I return to the Masters Collection home page?
ChessWorld PGN Files
Q. How can I export PGN files?
Q. How can I import PGN files into a Chess Application?
Q. How can I import PGN files into a Chess Database?
Q. Can I copy a game from a Chess Database into my forum posting?
Q. How can I post playable games?
{This is a comment}
).Q. How can I post games to invite comments?
[[[1. e2-e4 c7-c5 2. Ng1-f3 Nb8-c6 3. d2-d4 cxd4 4. Nf3xd4 0-1]]]
– For ChessWorld games: Game # - Comments Welcome
– For published games: Kasparov-Weinstein - Comments WelcomeQ. What is PGN Notation?
ChessWorld BookFinder
Q. How can I use the BookFinder?
Q. How can I write or request Book reviews?
Q. How can I add a book to my homepage?
ChessWorld Spreadsheets
ChessWorld assumes you are already familiar with using spreadsheets. The information below provides brief guidance for using our specialised spreadsheets and separated variable text files.
For general spreadsheet help, consult your software vendor or manufacturer.
ChessWorld offers advice in good faith and is not responsible for any mistakes you may make.
Q. Which spreadsheet does ChessWorld recommend?
Q. Is it possible to use ChessWorld data in a spreadsheet?
Q. How can I use a preconfigured Google Sheets spreadsheet?
Q. Can I rearrange the order in which data is displayed in the spreadsheet?
Q. Can I rearrange the order in which columns are displayed in the spreadsheet?
Q. Can I delete a column from the spreadsheet?
Q. Why can't I use the hyperlinks that appear in the spreadsheet?
Q. What does Pipe Delimited mean?
|
.|
usually shares the key with the backslash \
on UK/US keyboards. Don’t confuse it with the broken bar ¦
, which appears near the number 1
key and requires AltGr on many keyboards.Q. How are ChessWorld export files configured?
|
to prevent conflicts with commas, tabs, and spaces that may appear in chess metadata.Q. How can I use ChessWorld export files?
This makes the spreadsheet easier to manage.
Q. How can I add extra rows of data to the spreadsheet?
Miscellaneous
Q. What is a tag?
Q. Why should I tag a game?
Q. Can you help me find suitable tag names?
Q. How can I tag a game?
Q. How can I get a Suggestions
(Light bulb) Icon on my game page?