how to play chess endgames book

Introduction
Before we plunge into the wonderful world of endgame strategy, we should like to give you some
hints on how to use this book.
We have endeavoured to structure each chapter in the best and most systematic fashion. Nevertheless,
the theme of this book is so complex that it is hard to avoid some overlap between sections.
So, for instance, the topic of · exchanging the last pawn' might be found not only under 'The Right
Exchange' (Chapter 4), but also under 'The Art of Defence' (Chapter 16) and with a bit of imagination
even in 'The Art of Pawn Play' (Chapter 2). If you do not find a topic where you would expect
it, then please consult the contents list.
The more you work independently on your game, the more your chess will improve. We recommend
therefore that you conscientiously study all the examples provided in this book. You should
first of all set up the positions in each section on a chess board and then attentively play through at
least the main variations printed in bold. In connection with this, you should try to solve the training
exercises independently, also sitting calmly at a chessboard. In each case, look up the answer
only when you have definitely reached a firm conclusion. A typical mistake when working on such
training exercises is to look up the solution when all you have done is find the first move of one
variation. There are in fact a few exercises in which the key move is very easy to find, but for a complete
answer to the question a very substantial continuation has to be worked out. To avoid the danger
of self-deception in this respect, it is best to write your answers down.
To polish your technique further we recommend that you play through both grandmaster games
and your own games and always place emphasis on themes in the chapters of this book. You will be
very surprised to find what new knowledge and insights this brings.
Naturally you should study the endings of the great virtuosi, such as Capablanca, Andersson,
Karpov and Kramnik. You will notice that many players are particularly strong in some of the strategic
areas that we deal with; for example, Smyslov in the sphere of exchanges, Petrosian in prophylactic
thinking and hindering counterplay, Fischer in the use of the bishop, and Kasparov in
piece activity.
To particularly ambitious players we further recommend looking for additional positions and instructive
examples for each section and storing them as future training material.
However, mere knowledge and training are no substitute for real play. This brings us to our most
important piece of advice: you should in no way limit yourself to the study of this book- you need
to play, play and keep playing. In this respect we recommend that you play out your endgames, and
on no account agree an early draw in a rich position. You will only be able to develop your endgame
skills quickly if you combine your newly acquired knowledge with sufficient practical play.