If you feel stuck, keep making the same mistakes, or don’t know what to study next, it may be time to get guidance from a coach.
A coach gives you a training plan, assigns exercises, and ensures you balance tactics, strategy, openings, and endgames in your study routine.
Unlike books or videos, a coach spots your specific weaknesses and tailors lessons to your needs. This accelerates improvement.
Paying for coaching motivates consistency. Knowing someone will review your progress helps you stay disciplined in training.
Lessons usually include game reviews, tactical exercises, and thematic instruction. Many coaches also assign homework between sessions.
Pick a coach whose style fits your goals. If you want tactical sharpness, find a sharp player. For positional depth, choose a strategist.
Before committing, read student reviews or request a trial lesson. A good fit matters more than the coach’s rating alone.
Online platforms make coaching affordable and accessible. OTB coaching provides face-to-face interaction but may cost more and require travel.
If you’re still blundering pieces regularly under 1000, focus first on free resources, tactics, and consistent practice before investing in coaching.
A good coach is more than a teacher—they’re a guide through your chess journey. Many players credit their coaches for lasting growth and confidence.