1. Perpetual Check
Perpetual check occurs when one player continuously checks the opponent's king, forcing a draw. This tactic is often used by the weaker side to avoid losing. In the example below, White is ahead but Black can force a perpetual check.

Black’s sequence to force perpetual check is:
1. Kh1 Qf1+
2. Kh2 Qf2+
3. Kh1 Qf1+
4. Kh2 Qf2+
and so on!
White cannot escape the repeated checks, resulting in a draw.
2. Stalemate
Stalemate happens when the player to move is not in check but has no legal move available. This results in a draw. Many beginners accidentally stalemate an opponent when ahead on material. The example below shows White’s king not in check but unable to move.

3. Insufficient Mating Material
When neither player has enough pieces to checkmate, the game is declared drawn. The following are examples where checkmate is impossible:
- Only the two kings remain on the board.
- King and bishop versus king.
- King and knight versus king.
- King and two knights versus king.
4. Repetition of Moves
If the same position occurs three times with the same player to move and the same legal moves available, a player can claim a draw. The perpetual check example above is one such repetition.
5. Fifty-Move Rule
If 50 consecutive moves are made by both players without any pawn moves or captures, either player may claim a draw.
6. Draw by Agreement
Players may mutually agree to a draw when they feel the position is equal. Many professional games end this way.