Learn Chess

The chessboard is an 8x8 grid with alternating light and dark squares. Each player starts with 16 pieces: one king, one queen, two rooks, two bishops, two knights, and eight pawns.

• The goal is to checkmate the opponent’s king.
• Each piece moves differently (explained in later lessons).
• The white pieces always move first.

Each piece has unique movement rules:

• Pawns: move forward one square (two on their first move); capture diagonally.
• Rooks: move any number of squares vertically or horizontally.
• Knights: move in an “L” shape: two in one direction, then one sideways.
• Bishops: move any number of squares diagonally.
• Queen: moves like both rook and bishop.
• King: moves one square in any direction.

Focus on these principles as you start:

• Control the center squares (d4, d5, e4, e5).
• Develop your pieces early (move knights and bishops out).
• Castle your king to safety.
• Avoid moving the same piece multiple times without reason.

Ready to try? Head to the practice page where you’ll find chess puzzles and scenarios to apply what you’ve learned.