Chess for Beginners: Rules and Opening Ideas
Chess is a game for two players on an 8x8 board. Each side has sixteen pieces, and the aim is to checkmate the other player's king, which means attacking it so it cannot escape.
How the pieces move
The rook moves in straight lines, the bishop moves diagonally, and the queen can do both. The knight moves in an L shape and is the only piece that can jump over others. The king moves one square in any direction. Pawns move forward one square (two on their first move) but capture diagonally.
Three opening ideas
First, take control of the centre by moving a centre pawn forward. Second, bring out your knights and bishops early, and avoid moving the same piece twice in the opening. Third, castle to keep your king safe and bring your rook into play. Try not to bring your queen out too soon, because it can be chased around by smaller pieces.
Habits that help
Before every move, ask what your opponent's last move is threatening. Check that your pieces are protected. Trading pieces is fine when you are ahead, but think before giving up a piece for free. The more games you play, the more patterns you will recognise.