Basics of Visualization
One of the benefits of playing chess is that a chess player learns to visualize. The skill is helpful in different areas of life. When it comes to chess board, visualizing a clear picture of the position gives you the comfort of clarity. It becomes easy to decide when there is clarity in the picture. I am going to share a few tools that could help you in training this skill using FAQ about the subject
How does one train visualization in chess?
There are many divisions in this aspect.
*Solving combinations from a book without using the board
*Solving positions without looking at the board. (example :W.Ke3, Qe4 B:Ke1, Mate in one)
*Playing Blindfold positions
* Following a game from a chess book without using the physical board
* Analyzing the critical positions to the end without moving pieces
How to use visualization in a game?
If I manage to reach the playing hall five to ten minutes prior to the start of the game, I sit on my board and close my eyes. I pay a mental visit to every square on the chess board. As I repeat the names of the square in my mind, I imagine them. I start with my left-hand corner. A1, b1, c1, d1, e1, f1,g1,h1, g2, f2 and so on..
It takes about 2-3 minutes to cover all the squares. This activity helps me elevate to a game playing mode, freeing me from distractions and unwanted talks or thoughts. I use this technique when I feel distracted.
I try to install some unique chess habits into the routine of my students that helps them discover the funny side of chess. After the end of a lesson, I give them tests pertaining to the topic. In case of basic visualization, I ask them the color of the square. Here is the sample:
1. g4
2. h4
3. b8
4. b7
5. c3
6. g8
7. d2
8. e6
9. f3
10. b1
If a student passes this test, we move on to advanced tests.
The task will be to remember a position. After a few minutes, the student will be asked the locations of a few pieces.
Do try this!
If you answered all the questions correctly, very good!
Now, let us try a small game.
Visualize this without a board and try to come up with winning move
1.e4 Nc6 2.Ne2 Ne5 3.g3
Black to play
1.e4 e5 2.Qh5 Ke7
White to play
1.e4 c6 2.Qe2 d5 3.Nc3 dxe4 4.Nxe4 Nd7
White to play
1.d4 Nf6 2.c4 e5 3.dxe5 Ne4 4. Nf3 Bc5 5. Nc3
Black to play
