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How to improve at chess at 1800–2000

Class A · Class A (1800–1999)

How do I improve at chess from 1800 to 2000?

Tournament player close to expert. Needs depth: calculation precision, dynamic evaluation and a professional work routine. Spend most of your training on calculation (25%), strategy (20%), endgames (20%). Classical tournaments; avoid too much blitz. Training games from set positions.

Where to spend your training time

Calculation
25%
Strategy
20%
Endgames
20%
Openings
15%
Game analysis
15%
Competition
5%

A training session

  1. 20 min: Hard calculation positions (timed, lines written down)
  2. 20 min: Strategy: dynamic vs static factors
  3. 10 min: Endgame theory and practice
  4. 10 min: Repertoire review / opponent preparation
  5. 0 min: Homework: deep analysis of own games, studies

How much to play

Classical tournaments; avoid too much blitz. Training games from set positions.

How to review your games

Deep self-analysis before engine; keep a mistakes notebook classified by type.

Most common mistakes at 1800–2000

Coach’s tips

Openings to play

With White: Full main-line repertoire with sidelines covered. With Black: Two defences vs 1.e4 for flexibility. Start preparing for specific opponents.

Ready for the next level?

Move on when you hold about 2000 over the board, solve 55% of puzzles at this level, average no more than 0.6 blunders a game and have done 70% of the lessons.

Puzzles for your level

Chess puzzles for 1800–2000 players

Lessons for 1800–2000