CM Azel Chua, a Candidate Master and renowned chess instructor, shares insights from his innovative calculation course on Chessable. He emphasizes the importance of developing personal calculation methodologies in chess, rather than sticking to conventional tactics. Azel also critiques the common 'checks, captures, and threats' approach and advocates for a deeper understanding of tactics. Moreover, he discusses the upcoming FIDE rating changes and their implications, as well as effective study habits that balance gameplay with tactical improvement.
Azel Chua emphasizes the importance of foundational techniques in chess calculation to prevent bad habits for beginners.
Chua critiques the conventional 'checks, captures, and threats' method, advocating for a more nuanced approach to tactical understanding.
The podcast discusses how emotional engagement in learning enhances intuition and promotes deeper recognition of good chess habits.
Deep dives
Introduction to Chess Calculation Course
Azel Chua has launched a new course, 'Introduction to Chess Calculation,' aimed at helping beginners develop effective calculation techniques as they progress to higher levels. The course is designed to prevent beginners from picking up bad habits that can hinder their advancement in chess. Azel emphasizes the importance of establishing solid foundational techniques early, similar to ensuring that the base of a house is correctly built to support future expansion. This structured approach allows players to scale their skills gradually, moving from basic understanding to more advanced mastery.
Critique of Common Techniques
During the discussion, Azel critiques the widely taught 'checks, captures, and threats' technique, arguing that it can lead to ineffective play and false signals. He points out that while this method may yield success in puzzles, it does not translate well into actual gameplay, where players often encounter situations devoid of immediate tactical opportunities. The reliance on this technique can cause frustration and a sense of failure when players repeatedly fail to find effective moves. Azel believes that a more nuanced approach, which involves identifying tactical targets based on first principles, is necessary for real improvement.
Developing a Personalized Calculation Technique
Azel explains his method for constructing a robust calculation technique, focused on identifying tactical targets rather than following generic advice. By reasoning from objectives like winning material and recognizing undefended pieces, players can create personalized strategies tailored to their experience level. This method promotes scalability, as players can adapt their strategies to include more complex tactics as they improve. He highlights that understanding the underlying patterns is key to transforming tactical recognition into practical execution during games.
Emotional Connection to Learning
Azel discusses the role of emotions in chess learning, asserting that emotional engagement can enhance intuition and overall performance. By associating positive emotions with successful tactics and negative emotions with mistakes, players can create a more compelling learning experience that drives better understanding. For instance, visualizing the advantages of controlling open files can be loaded with positive reinforcement, while the consequences of a cramped position can evoke feelings of frustration. This emotional linkage fosters deeper learning and helps players internalize good habits more effectively.
Strategic Study and Game Analysis
For players aspiring to improve, Azel recommends that they focus more on playing and analyzing their games rather than strictly adhering to a predetermined study plan. He advises identifying low-hanging fruits in one's game—moves or tactics that have a significant impact and are easily understandable. This approach promotes tailored training that directly addresses personal weaknesses and enhances overall strength. By concentrating on practical experience and refining analysis skills, players can cultivate a more effective and personalized improvement path.
We talk with CM Azel Chua on his new calculation course on Chessable. Azel gives a ton of free advice from his course. We also cover rating changes, techniques to improve your intuition, and much more.
🆕 Calculation for beginners - https://www.chessable.com/calculation-the-beginners-complete-guide/course/212650
Calculation for tournament players - https://www.chessable.com/calculation-a-complete-guide-for-tournament-players/course/53691/
Azel's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/advicecabinet?igsh=MW91bjJ5cnNsM242NA==
Azel's telegram bootcamp: https://t.me/ac_chess
How to analyze your games: https://chessgoals.com/game-analysis/
Lifetime Access Bundle - https://courses.chessgoals.com/bundles/lifetime
Livestream Sign-up Form - https://forms.gle/zpipbgcVanCSWiax8
Podcast Sign-up Form - https://forms.gle/UDPpVRn9pzDYqqsEA
📈 ChessGoals Links:
➡️ FREE Study Plans: https://courses.chessgoals.com/courses/blueprint
➡️ Learn how your rating compares: https://chessgoals.com/rating-comparison/
➡️ Chess.com Club: https://go.chess.com/ChessGoals
➡️ ChessGoals Tactics Trainer: https://train.chessgoals.com
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