We conclude our course with a vital warning: Tactics do not exist in a vacuum.
It is crucial to have a Game Plan that you are roughly following. This plan should be based on the fundamentals of the position that arise after the opening (pawn structure, piece activity, key squares).
An understanding of positional elements and how to manage them provides the essential context for all the tactical insight presented in this course.
The Danger of Over-Analysis
Real damage can be done by becoming distracted by momentary tactical factors. You may think you are "exploiting" a unique piece placement, but in reality, you might be derailing the simple and effective implementation of your overall game plan.
Going off on a "tactical tangent" that yields little actual gain is a common mistake. Don't let the shine of a potential tactic distract you from a solid strategic victory.
Try to balance tactical reasoning with positional reasoning!
Respect your playing style, but respect the needs of the position at the same time.