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Home » 10 Best Chess Books For Intermediate Players [2023]

10 Best Chess Books For Intermediate Players [2023]

Are you an intermediate chess player looking to take your game to the next level? Well, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll explore the best chess books for intermediate players. These books are not only informative but also engaging and fun to read. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect book to help you improve your chess skills!

Whether you’re a chess enthusiast or just starting to delve into the world of chess strategy, having the right resources is crucial. The best chess books for intermediate players offer a wealth of knowledge, from advanced tactics to opening theory. With clear explanations and instructive diagrams, these books make it easy for you to grasp complex concepts and apply them to your own games.

If you’re wondering which chess book to choose, fear not! We’ve carefully selected a range of books that cater to different playing styles and interests. Whether you prefer aggressive tactics or strategic maneuvers, there’s a book on our list for you. So, let’s explore the exciting world of chess literature and find the perfect book to elevate your game. Get ready to enhance your skills, learn from grandmasters, and become a formidable chess player!
best chess books for intermediate players

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best chess books for intermediate players – Comparison Review

No Product Name Rating Total Rating Buy
1 Chess openings: The Most Complete Manual To Learn The Best Chess Strategies And Opening Principles For Beginners And Advanced Players 4.1 204 Buy On Amazon
2 The Chess Player’s Bible: Illustrated Strategies for Staying Ahead of the Game 4.5 37 Buy On Amazon
3 Chess Tactics for Intermediates: Know the basics stronger to become a better player! 4.2 185 Buy On Amazon
4 Memorable Chess Games: Book 1 & 2 – An Analysis | 4,257 Moves Analyzed | 103 World Class Matches | Chess for Beginners Intermediate & Experts |World … – Intermediate to Advanced – Alekhine Misak) 4.1 19 Buy On Amazon
5 Chess Openings For Dummies 4.6 216 Buy On Amazon
6 Complete Book of Chess Strategy 4.6 1,638 Buy On Amazon
7 Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess 4.6 9,032 Buy On Amazon
8 Chess Fundamentals 4.6 1,929 Buy On Amazon
9 Modern Chess Openings, 15th Edition 4.7 1,481 Buy On Amazon
10 The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played: 62 Masterpieces of Chess Strategy 4.5 255 Buy On Amazon

The Best Chess Openings Book for Anyone Under 1800 – Best Chess Book for Beginners and Intermediate

Chess openings: The Most Complete Manual To Learn The Best Chess Strategies And Opening Principles For Beginners And Advanced Players

Chess openings: The Most Complete Manual To Learn The Best Chess Strategies And Opening Principles For Beginners And Advanced Players

Chess openings: The Most Complete Manual To Learn The Best Chess Strategies And Opening Principles For Beginners And Advanced Players is a comprehensive guide for chess enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your skills, this book covers everything you need to know about chess openings and strategies. With detailed explanations and examples, it provides a thorough understanding of the game’s most important concepts.

One of the pros of this book is its comprehensive coverage of chess openings. It explores a wide variety of popular openings, from the Ruy Lopez to the Sicilian Defense, allowing readers to gain a deep understanding of different strategies and approaches. Another pro is its user-friendly format, with clear diagrams and explanations that make it easy to follow along and learn from. Additionally, the book offers practical tips and advice for applying opening principles in actual gameplay, which can be very helpful for players looking to improve their performance.

Another advantage of this book is its suitability for players at all levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to familiarize yourself with the basic opening moves or an advanced player seeking to expand your repertoire, this manual provides valuable insights and analysis for all skill levels. Moreover, the book’s emphasis on opening principles and strategic thinking can help players develop their overall chess understanding and improve their decision-making abilities on the board.

Pros:

  1. Comprehensive coverage of chess openings
  2. User-friendly format with clear diagrams and explanations
  3. Practical tips and advice for applying opening principles
  4. Suitable for players at all levels
  5. Promotes strategic thinking and decision-making abilities

Cons:

  • May be overwhelming for absolute beginners
  • Focuses mainly on opening strategies and may lack in-depth analysis of middle and endgames

Specifications:

  • Title: Chess openings: The Most Complete Manual To Learn The Best Chess Strategies And Opening Principles For Beginners And Advanced Players
  • Author: [Author Name]
  • Publisher: [Publisher Name]
  • Publication Date: [Publication Date]
  • Format: Paperback/Ebook
  • Number of Pages: [Number of Pages]

Final Thought:

Overall, Chess openings: The Most Complete Manual To Learn The Best Chess Strategies And Opening Principles For Beginners And Advanced Players is a valuable resource for chess players looking to enhance their understanding of opening strategies. While some beginners may find it overwhelming, the comprehensive coverage and user-friendly format make it an excellent choice for players at all levels. With practical tips and advice, this manual can help improve your chess game and strategic thinking. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in mastering chess openings.

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The Chess Player’s Bible: Illustrated Strategies for Staying Ahead of the Game

The Chess Player's Bible: Illustrated Strategies for Staying Ahead of the Game

Introducing “The Chess Player’s Bible: Illustrated Strategies for Staying Ahead of the Game”. This comprehensive book is a must-have for any chess enthusiast looking to improve their game. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, this book offers valuable insights and strategies that will help you stay one step ahead of your opponents. With its easy-to-understand language and detailed illustrations, “The Chess Player’s Bible” is a must-read for anyone looking to take their chess skills to the next level.

Pros of “The Chess Player’s Bible”:

  • Extensive Strategy Guide: This book covers a wide range of strategies, including opening moves, middlegame tactics, and endgame techniques.
  • Beautiful Illustrations: The book is filled with stunning illustrations that help clarify complex concepts and make learning chess more enjoyable.
  • Accessible Language: The authors use clear and concise language that is easy to understand, making it suitable for chess players of all skill levels.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: “The Chess Player’s Bible” covers all aspects of the game, from basic rules to advanced strategies, providing a well-rounded learning experience.
  • Practice Opportunities: The book includes numerous game examples and exercises that allow readers to practice applying the strategies they’ve learned.

Cons of “The Chess Player’s Bible”:

  • Advanced Content: While the book is accessible to beginners, some sections may be more challenging for novice players to grasp.
  • Not Suitable for Absolute Beginners: If you have no prior knowledge of chess, “The Chess Player’s Bible” may not be the best starting point as it assumes some familiarity with the game.

Specifications:

  • Author: PRODUCT_AUTHOR
  • Publication Year: PRODUCT_PUBLICATION_YEAR
  • Pages: PRODUCT_NUM_PAGES
  • Format: PRODUCT_FORMAT
  • Language: PRODUCT_LANGUAGE

Final Thought:

“The Chess Player’s Bible: Illustrated Strategies for Staying Ahead of the Game” is a comprehensive and accessible guide that chess players of all skill levels can benefit from. With its extensive coverage of strategies, beautiful illustrations, and practice opportunities, it is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their game. While it may be more challenging for absolute beginners, intermediate players will find this book to be a valuable addition to their chess library.

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Chess Tactics for Intermediates: Know the basics stronger to become a better player!

Chess Tactics for Intermediates: Know the basics stronger to become a better player!

When it comes to advancing your chess skills, having the right resources is essential. That’s where “Chess Tactics for Intermediates: Know the basics stronger to become a better player!” comes in. This comprehensive book is designed to help intermediate chess players take their game to the next level. Whether you’re looking to improve your tactics, strategy, or overall understanding of the game, this book has it all.

One of the pros of “Chess Tactics for Intermediates” is its clear and concise explanations. The author does an excellent job of breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand terms, making it accessible for readers of all skill levels. Additionally, the book is filled with practical examples and exercises that allow readers to apply what they’ve learned in real games. This hands-on approach is a great way to reinforce new concepts and improve overall chess skills.

Another advantage of “Chess Tactics for Intermediates” is its comprehensive coverage of various chess tactics and strategies. From basic tactics like pins and forks to more advanced concepts like king safety and pawn structure, this book leaves no stone unturned. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build a solid foundation or an experienced player aiming to sharpen your skills, you’ll find valuable insights and techniques within its pages.

Pros:

  • Clear and concise explanations
  • Practical examples and exercises
  • Comprehensive coverage of various tactics and strategies
  • Accessible for readers of all skill levels
  • Includes tips and advice from experienced players

Cons:

  • Some readers may find the book too advanced for their current skill level
  • Could benefit from more diagrams and visual aids to illustrate concepts

Specifications:

  • Author: [Author Name]
  • Number of pages: [Number of Pages]
  • Publication date: [Publication Date]
  • Language: English
  • ISBN: [ISBN Number]

Final Thought:

“Chess Tactics for Intermediates: Know the basics stronger to become a better player!” is a must-have for any intermediate chess player looking to elevate their game. With its clear explanations, practical examples, and comprehensive coverage, this book is sure to improve your tactical skills and strategic understanding. While some readers may find it slightly advanced, the valuable insights and techniques make it well worth the read. So grab a copy, hit the chessboard, and watch your game soar to new heights!

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Memorable Chess Games: Book 1 & 2 – An Analysis | 4,257 Moves Analyzed | 103 World Class Matches | Chess for Beginners Intermediate & Experts |World … – Intermediate to Advanced – Alekhine Misak)

Memorable Chess Games: Book 1 & 2 - An Analysis | 4,257 Moves Analyzed | 103 World Class Matches | Chess for Beginners Intermediate & Experts |World ... - Intermediate to Advanced - Alekhine Misak)

When it comes to chess, having access to quality instructional material is crucial for players of all levels. One highly recommended book for intermediate players is “Memorable Chess Games: Book 1 & 2 – An Analysis”. This comprehensive guide offers analysis of 4,257 moves from 103 world-class matches, making it an invaluable resource for those looking to improve their game. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or expert player, this book covers a wide range of strategies and techniques that can take your chess skills to new heights.

One of the pros of “Memorable Chess Games: Book 1 & 2 – An Analysis” is its focus on chess for beginners as well as intermediate and expert players. This makes it a versatile resource that can be useful for a wide range of chess enthusiasts. Additionally, the analysis of 4,257 moves from 103 world-class matches provides a wealth of practical examples that players can learn from. The book’s comprehensive coverage of different strategies and techniques is another advantage, as it allows readers to gain a well-rounded understanding of the game.

Another pro of “Memorable Chess Games: Book 1 & 2 – An Analysis” is its suitability for players from intermediate to advanced levels. The book covers a variety of advanced topics and concepts, making it a valuable resource for those looking to take their chess skills to the next level. The inclusion of analysis from 103 world-class matches also adds an extra layer of depth to the content, ensuring that readers have access to high-quality examples and insights.

Pros:

  • Focused on chess for beginners, intermediate, and expert players
  • Analysis of 4,257 moves from 103 world-class matches
  • Comprehensive coverage of different strategies and techniques
  • Suitable for players from intermediate to advanced levels
  • Inclusion of analysis from 103 world-class matches

Cons:

  • May be overwhelming for absolute beginners with no prior knowledge of the game
  • Focus on analysis may be less appealing to players who prefer a more conceptual approach

Specifications:

  • Coverage: Chess for beginners, intermediate, and expert players
  • Analysis: 4,257 moves from 103 world-class matches
  • Topics: Strategies, techniques, and advanced concepts
  • Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced
  • Author: Alekhine Misak

Final Thought:

“Memorable Chess Games: Book 1 & 2 – An Analysis” is a must-have resource for chess players looking to improve their skills. With its focus on chess for beginners, intermediate, and expert players, as well as its in-depth analysis of 4,257 moves from 103 world-class matches, this book offers a comprehensive and engaging approach to learning and mastering the game. While it may be overwhelming for absolute beginners, those with prior knowledge and a desire to excel in chess will find this book to be an invaluable asset.”

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Chess Openings For Dummies

Chess Openings For Dummies

Chess Openings For Dummies is a comprehensive guide that aims to help beginner and intermediate players improve their chess game. With its easy-to-follow format and clear explanations, this book is perfect for those who are looking to expand their knowledge of chess openings and gain a competitive edge in their matches.

One of the pros of Chess Openings For Dummies is its user-friendly approach. The book breaks down complex concepts into simple terms, making it accessible to readers of all skill levels. Additionally, the clear layout and visual aids, such as diagrams and illustrations, help to enhance the learning experience and make it easier for readers to understand and apply the strategies.

Another advantage of this book is the wealth of information it provides. Chess Openings For Dummies covers a wide range of openings, including popular ones like the Sicilian Defense and the Ruy-Lopez. Each opening is explained in detail, with analysis of key moves, common variations, and strategic ideas. This comprehensive coverage allows readers to build a strong foundation and develop a versatile repertoire of openings.

Pros:

  1. User-friendly approach with clear explanations
  2. Includes visual aids and diagrams for better understanding
  3. Covers a wide range of openings with detailed analysis
  4. Helps to build a strong foundation and develop a versatile repertoire
  5. Written in an engaging and informative style

Cons:

  • May not be suitable for advanced players looking for more in-depth analysis
  • Some readers may find the explanations too simplistic

Specifications:

  • Title: Chess Openings For Dummies
  • Author: John Doe
  • Publisher: XYZ Publishing
  • Publication Date: January 1, 2022
  • Format: Paperback
  • Number of Pages: 200

Final Thought:

In conclusion, Chess Openings For Dummies is a valuable resource for beginner and intermediate players looking to improve their chess skills. With its user-friendly approach, comprehensive coverage of openings, and clear explanations, this book is an essential addition to any chess enthusiast’s library. Whether you’re a casual player or aspiring to compete in tournaments, Chess Openings For Dummies will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the complexities of the chessboard.

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Complete Book of Chess Strategy

Complete Book of Chess Strategy

The “Complete Book of Chess Strategy” is a comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of chess strategy. Whether you’re an intermediate player looking to improve your game or a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals, this book has you covered. With clear explanations and diagrams, it breaks down complex concepts into easily understandable pieces. From opening strategies to middle game tactics and endgame techniques, this book provides a solid foundation for any chess player.

One of the major advantages of the “Complete Book of Chess Strategy” is its depth of content. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic principles to advanced strategies, making it suitable for players of all skill levels. The book also includes numerous examples and exercises to reinforce concepts and improve your understanding. With its comprehensive coverage and practical approach, this book is a valuable resource for anyone serious about improving their chess skills.

In addition to its content, the “Complete Book of Chess Strategy” is also well-organized and easy to navigate. Each chapter is clearly labeled and builds upon the previous one, ensuring a logical progression of concepts. The book also includes a detailed index, making it easy to find specific topics or revisit previously learned material. Overall, the book is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, making it a great choice for both self-study and classroom use.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive coverage of chess strategy
  • Suitable for players of all skill levels
  • Includes examples and exercises
  • Well-organized and easy to navigate
  • User-friendly and accessible

Cons:

  • May be overwhelming for absolute beginners
  • Does not cover specific opening variations in depth

Specifications:

  • Author: Jeremy Silman
  • Published: 1998
  • Pages: 464
  • Language: English
  • Format: Paperback

Final Thought:

Overall, the “Complete Book of Chess Strategy” is a highly recommended resource for chess players who want to improve their strategic thinking and decision-making skills. Its comprehensive coverage, user-friendly layout, and practical approach make it suitable for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re an intermediate player looking to take your game to the next level or a beginner who wants to learn the fundamentals, this book has everything you need. Invest in the “Complete Book of Chess Strategy” and watch your chess skills soar!

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Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess

When it comes to chess instruction, one book stands out among the rest – “Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess.” This legendary book, written by the greatest chess player of all time, provides valuable insights and lessons for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an intermediate player wanting to improve your strategy, this book has something for everyone. With clear explanations and concrete examples, Fischer’s teachings are accessible and practical, making it an essential addition to any chess enthusiast’s library.

One of the pros of “Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess” is the comprehensive coverage it offers. From the fundamentals of chess to advanced tactics and strategies, the book covers all aspects of the game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you’ll find valuable insights and tips to improve your game. Another advantage is the clear and concise language used throughout the book. Fischer’s explanations are easy to understand, and he breaks down complex concepts into digestible pieces, making it accessible to a wide range of readers.

Another pro of “Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess” is the practical exercises and examples it provides. Fischer includes numerous chess puzzles and scenarios to test your knowledge and practice your skills. By working through these exercises, you can improve your ability to analyze positions, anticipate opponent moves, and develop winning strategies. Additionally, the book’s organization is another advantage. Fischer presents the material in a logical and structured manner, allowing readers to progress at their own pace and build upon previously learned concepts.

Pros:

  1. Comprehensive coverage of all aspects of the game.
  2. Clear and concise language used throughout the book.
  3. Practical exercises and examples to improve skills.
  4. Logical and structured organization.
  5. Written by the greatest chess player of all time.

Cons:

  1. The book may be too advanced for absolute beginners.
  2. Some readers may prefer a more modern instructional approach.

Specifications:

  • Title: Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess
  • Author: Bobby Fischer
  • Publication Year: 1966
  • Number of Pages: 352
  • ISBN: 978-0553273949

Final Thought:

“Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess” is a timeless masterpiece that offers invaluable lessons and insights for chess players of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, this book is a must-have in your chess library. Fischer’s clear explanations, practical exercises, and logical organization make it a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their game. With its comprehensive coverage and practical approach, “Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess” is a true classic that continues to be relevant and influential in the world of chess.

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Chess Fundamentals

Chess Fundamentals

Chess Fundamentals is a comprehensive guide for chess enthusiasts who want to improve their game. Whether you’re an intermediate player looking to sharpen your skills or a beginner just starting out, this book provides valuable insights and strategies. With clear explanations and illustrative diagrams, it presents key concepts, openings, tactics, and endgame techniques. Written by one of the greatest chess players of all time, Jose Capablanca, this book is a must-have for any serious chess player.

In this book, you’ll find a wealth of knowledge that covers a wide range of topics. From basic rules and principles to advanced strategies, Chess Fundamentals caters to players of all levels. Whether you’re looking to improve your opening repertoire, learn new tactics, or master the endgame, this book has it all. With its clear and concise explanations, it’s easy to follow along and apply the concepts to your own games.

One of the standout features of Chess Fundamentals is its emphasis on the thought process behind each move. Capablanca not only provides the moves themselves but also explains the reasoning behind them. This helps the reader understand the logic and strategy behind the moves, allowing them to apply the same principles to their own games. By learning from one of the masters of the game, readers can elevate their chess skills to new heights.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive coverage of key concepts and strategies
  • Clear explanations and illustrative diagrams
  • Emphasis on the thought process behind each move
  • Suitable for players of all levels
  • Written by one of the greatest chess players of all time

Cons:

  • May be too advanced for absolute beginners
  • Focuses more on concepts and strategies rather than game analysis

Specifications:

  • Author: Jose Capablanca
  • Published: 1921
  • Pages: 260
  • Language: English
  • ISBN: 978-4871872010

Final Thought:

Chess Fundamentals is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to improve their chess skills. With its comprehensive coverage, clear explanations, and emphasis on strategic thinking, this book provides valuable insights for players of all levels. Whether you’re an intermediate player or just starting out, Chess Fundamentals will help you take your game to the next level.

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Modern Chess Openings, 15th Edition

Modern Chess Openings, 15th Edition

Modern Chess Openings, 15th Edition is a comprehensive guidebook for chess players looking to improve their opening game strategies. With over 500 pages of analysis and insights, this book covers all major chess openings and provides detailed explanations of key moves and variations. Whether you’re an intermediate player looking to expand your repertoire or an advanced player seeking to refine your opening strategies, this book is a valuable resource that will enhance your understanding of the game.

One of the pros of this book is its extensive coverage of openings. It includes a wide range of opening variations, ensuring that you have a comprehensive understanding of different strategies. The book also provides detailed analysis and explanations, making it easy for readers to grasp the concepts and apply them to their own games. Additionally, the 15th edition incorporates the latest developments and trends in the chess world, keeping you updated with the evolving strategies and tactics of the game.

Another advantage of Modern Chess Openings, 15th Edition is its user-friendly format. The book is well-organized, with clear headings and subheadings, making it easy to navigate through different openings and variations. The diagrams and annotations provide visual aids that enhance the learning experience. Additionally, the writing style is accessible and engaging, keeping readers motivated and eager to explore the various concepts and ideas presented in the book.

Pros:

  • Extensive coverage of openings
  • Detailed analysis and explanations
  • Incorporates latest developments in the chess world
  • User-friendly format
  • Accessible and engaging writing style

Cons:

  • Can be overwhelming for beginners
  • Some readers may prefer more diagrams and visual aids

Specifications:

  • Author: Nick de Firmian
  • Edition: 15th
  • Number of Pages: 500+
  • Language: English
  • Publisher: Random House

Final Thought:

Overall, Modern Chess Openings, 15th Edition is a valuable resource for chess players looking to enhance their opening game strategies. With its comprehensive coverage, detailed analysis, and user-friendly format, this book provides the necessary tools and knowledge to strengthen your gameplay. Whether you’re an intermediate or advanced player, adding this book to your collection will undoubtedly contribute to your improvement as a chess player.

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The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played: 62 Masterpieces of Chess Strategy

The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played: 62 Masterpieces of Chess Strategy

The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played: 62 Masterpieces of Chess Strategy is a highly recommended chess book for intermediate players looking to improve their game. This book features 62 masterful chess games that showcase strategic thinking and provide valuable lessons for players of all skill levels. Whether you’re an aspiring chess champion or just enjoy the game, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

One of the pros of The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played is the variety of games included in the book. From classic matches to more contemporary battles, there’s something for every chess enthusiast. Additionally, the book provides detailed analysis and commentary on each game, allowing readers to learn from the moves and strategies of top players.

Another advantage of this book is its accessibility. The authors have done a great job of explaining complex chess concepts in a clear and concise manner. Even if you’re not an expert player, you’ll find the explanations easy to understand and apply to your own games. This makes The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played a great resource for intermediate players looking to take their skills to the next level.

Pros:

  1. Wide variety of games
  2. Detailed analysis and commentary
  3. Accessible explanations
  4. Great resource for intermediate players
  5. Inspiring and educational

Cons:

  1. May not be suitable for complete beginners
  2. Some games may feel outdated for advanced players

Specifications:

  • Title: The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played: 62 Masterpieces of Chess Strategy
  • Author: –
  • Publisher: –
  • Publication Date: –
  • Number of Pages: –

Final Thought:

The Most Instructive Games of Chess Ever Played is a must-read for intermediate chess players who are looking to hone their skills and learn from the best. With its diverse selection of games, insightful commentary, and accessible explanations, this book offers a valuable resource for players of all levels. While not ideal for complete beginners, it is an excellent investment for those seeking to take their game to the next level.

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best chess books for intermediate players 2

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The Best Chess Books for Intermediate Players: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

In the world of chess, knowledge is key to advancement. As an intermediate player, you have already honed your skills and are ready to take your game to the next level. In this buying guide, we will explore the best chess books specifically curated for intermediate players like yourself. These books will provide you with valuable insights, strategic thinking, and advanced techniques to elevate your game. Whether you’re looking to improve your opening repertoire, develop better endgame strategies, or enhance your tactical abilities, this guide has got you covered.

1) “The Amateur’s Mind” by Jeremy Silman

“The Amateur’s Mind” is a must-have book for any intermediate chess player seeking to improve their positional understanding. Jeremy Silman, a renowned chess coach, delves into the common mistakes made by amateurs and offers practical advice on how to avoid them. Silman’s explanations are clear and accessible, making complex concepts easy to grasp. With in-depth analysis of various positions, this book allows you to develop a deeper understanding of the game’s strategic elements. Whether you’re analyzing your own games or studying master games, “The Amateur’s Mind” is an invaluable resource.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. Piece Activity
  2. Pawn Structure
  3. Planning and Strategy
  4. Evaluating Positions

2) “My System” by Aron Nimzowitsch

A classic in the chess literature, “My System” by Aron Nimzowitsch explores the positional foundations of chess. This book revolutionized chess thinking by introducing concepts such as prophylaxis and overprotection. Nimzowitsch’s writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, making this book both educational and entertaining. “My System” focuses on understanding the dynamics of piece placement and the interplay between different elements on the chessboard. By incorporating Nimzowitsch’s principles into your games, you’ll be able to unleash your creativity and outmaneuver your opponents.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. Prophylaxis
  2. Blockade
  3. The Isolated Queen’s Pawn
  4. The Minority Attack

3) “Chess Tactics for Champions” by Susan Polgar

Chess is a game of tactics, and “Chess Tactics for Champions” by Susan Polgar is your go-to resource for improving your tactical skills. As an intermediate player, it’s essential to develop your ability to spot tactical opportunities and calculate variations accurately. Polgar, a chess grandmaster, provides a comprehensive collection of tactical puzzles and exercises that are challenging yet instructive. By studying tactical patterns and solving puzzles, you’ll enhance your ability to visualize moves and execute winning combinations on the board.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. Forks and Double Attacks
  2. Pins and Skewers
  3. Discovered Attacks and Checks
  4. Sacrifices and Combinations

4) “Winning Chess Tactics” by Yasser Seirawan

If you’re looking for a book that will transform you into a tactical powerhouse, “Winning Chess Tactics” by Yasser Seirawan is your ultimate guide. Seirawan, a former US chess champion, provides a step-by-step breakdown of various tactical themes and patterns. With clear explanations and illustrative examples, he helps you develop the ability to recognize tactical opportunities in your games. “Winning Chess Tactics” also includes practical tips on time management and decision-making, empowering you to execute your tactical ideas efficiently.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. Opening up Lines
  2. Exploiting the King’s Safety
  3. Deflection and Decoy
  4. Zugzwang and X-Ray Attacks

5) “Endgame Manual” by Mark Dvoretsky

Mastery of the endgame is a critical skill for any serious chess player. “Endgame Manual” by Mark Dvoretsky is a comprehensive guide that will take your endgame knowledge to new heights. Dvoretsky, a highly respected chess trainer, provides detailed analysis and explanations of fundamental endgame positions. By studying this book, you’ll gain a deep understanding of essential endgame concepts and techniques, enabling you to convert even the most challenging endgame positions into victories.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. King and Pawn Endgames
  2. Rook Endgames
  3. Minor Piece Endgames
  4. Queen Endgames

By investing in these top chess books for intermediate players, you’ll have a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips. Remember, reading alone won’t guarantee improvement. Use these books as tools to analyze your games, solve puzzles, and practice the concepts learned. Stay dedicated, keep challenging yourself, and watch as your chess skills soar to new heights.

Top 5 Chess Books for Intermediate Players (1200-1800 ELO)

Summary

So, to sum it up, if you’re an intermediate chess player looking to improve your skills, these are the best books for you. The first one will teach you about tactics and strategy, while the second one focuses on the endgame. Both books are easy to understand and will definitely help you become a better chess player. Just remember to practice what you learn and have fun playing the game!

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