How to Become a Chess Grandmaster

When you can be called a chess grandmaster, you have reached the pinnacle of the competitive chess world. The road to this is paved with thousands of games won and lost, years of study and a true passion for the game of chess. In order to become a grandmaster, you must follow certain protocols that have been set in place by the Federation International des Esches (or FIDE), which is the governing body that awards the honor.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access

Instructions

1. Join a chess club that sponsors tournaments recognized by FIDE. You must achieve certain ratings in order to be awarded a FIDE rating, which is the first step to becoming a grandmaster. The FIDE website has a listing of participating clubs all around the world (see Resources below).

2. Find an experienced instructor. There are various instructors around the country that will assist the serious chess enthusiast in improving his game. Look for one who has a lot of FIDE tournament experience and a high ELO rating of at least 1800 (the rating awarded to successful FIDE tournament participants).

3. Study the works of previous grandmasters. There are a wealth of books and other materials that offer play-by-play coverage of the best games of champions. Their techniques can be incorporated into your game and help you become a better chess player.

4. Play often. Not only will you fail to improve if you do not, but you will not acquire the required ratings if you do not participate in FIDE tournaments.

5. Attend tournaments even if you are not participating. Not only will you be able to pick up various strategies, but you will also become familiar with the games of those who you may meet in the future. Additionally, you will meet others who share your passion to become a grandmaster.

6. Learn and follow the rules and regulations of the game and of the FIDE organization so that your efforts are rewarded. There are specific guidelines for various tournaments, as well as information that can assist you on your journey to become a grandmaster that can be found on the FIDE website (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Don't think that you will become a grandmaster overnight. Not only must you become a player with a rating over 2500, but you must also achieve performances rated over 2600 against three grandmasters, which needless to say is no easy feat. This is certainly a case where patience is a virtue.

Resources

• Find a FIDE club
• Use the FIDE handbook