How to Play Chess

The section consists of a series of articles which you can download that give you clear and easy rules for starting out in chess, plus how to write the moves down.

Each article is in PDF format. If you prefer, you can download the complete set in one compressed file for viewing off line. In the unlikely event that your computer does not have the required PDF reader installed, you can get it free here.

• Object of the game, initial piece setup, key terminology
• How the KING and QUEEN move
• How the ROOK and BISHOP move
• How the KNIGHT moves
• How the PAWN moves, captures, and can be promoted
• Special moves: Pawn capturing EN PASSANT and CASTLING kingside
• CASTLING queenside
• Relative values of the pieces
• Annotation: How to write down the moves
• Annotation: A sample game for you to follow
• Checkmate: With two rooks
• Checkmate: With one rook (King already on edge of board)
• Checkmate: With one rook (King is centre of board)
• Checkmate: With Queen
• Scorecard: Download and record your own moves