The quickest means of mastering chess is through tactics since they determine the games in a short time. Novices think that they lose because they are not familiar with enough openings, or because the opponent is too strong. In the vast majority of beginner games, the actual cause of defeat is a lack of tactical awareness, e.g. failure to see a simple threat, hanging a piece, or neglect a straightforward tactic winning material. Tactical awareness does not mean being smart, it is simply training your eyes to perceive patterns. After you master the tricks, you no longer lose and begin winning without any doubts.

The initial notable concept of tactical thought is the concept of hanging pieces. Hanging piece is a piece which is not safeguarded and can be taken. Novices tend to move pieces without request: What the protection of this piece? or Can I take this piece, or may my opponent take this piece? Discipline is the first tactic; and that is to check the safety before taking a move. The percentage of new and inexperienced losses is enormous: an item was left hanging. The level in chess is raised instantly.

The second significant tactical strategy is the fork. A fork is a move, which simultaneously attacks 2 or more enemy pieces. Forks are known among knights in that they attack in a strange L-shape and are able to jump over pieces. But forks may be made by queens, rooks, bishops and pawns as well. The strength of a fork is in the fact that your opponent has no time to save everything. They have to either decide to keep one and lose the other. Com beginners that learn how to search for forks start to win pieces on a regular basis.

The third strategic idea is the pin. A pin is when a piece cannot move since it will reveal a more lucrative piece behind it. Pins are so powerful in that they restrain the freedom of the opponent. Some knight or bishop who has been pinned down gets caught, and can be attacked again and again until he falls. Pins frequently occur on files and diagonals particularly those which involve the king or queen. Knowing pins is not just knowing how to attack but also knowing how to play so that you do not get caught.

Lastly, strategic thinking is the bypass to steady improvements. Openings provide you with a steady beginning, strategy provides you with direction but tactics provide you with results. Tactics determine most of the games at the beginner and intermediate levels. Training tactics earns you respect in the field, boosts your confidence and wins more games. Tactical prowess is not chance it is drill, training and pattern recognition.