How to Move a Pawn on a Chess Board

The pawn is the foundational piece on a chess board. Though lowly in terms of its rank and point value, the pawn can inflict crucial complications in a chess match and prove indispensable in endgame play. By keeping this in mind, you will be able to use the pawn to a highly effective end and perhaps surprise your opponent with aggressive, but wise play.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Advance the pawn either 1 or 2 spaces when moving the pawn from its starting rank. The pawn is the only piece on the chess board that can move differently on its initial move.

2. Develop your pawns on the board so that they provide suitable protection to pieces generally considered more valuable. A popular use of this is in placing the pawn to the rear diagonal space of another piece so that if that piece is captured the pawn can affect immediate reprisal.

3. Remember that your pawn can also be effective as a blocking force against your opponent's more powerful pieces. Blocking files is an effective way of jamming your opponent's power piece development, thereby slowing his ability to bring a threat against your defense.

4. Advance your pawn deep into your opponent's territory as the match runs long. By placing pressure with the possibility of promoting your pawn to a queen, you will keep your opponent distracted while you pressure his defense on another front.

5. Use your pawn aggressively if you find other of your power pieces threatened. Even a pawn moved wisely across the chess board can checkmate an unsuspecting opponent.

Resources

• Gameknot.com is an online gaming resource for serious chess players.
• Chess.com is an online community that includes forums and discussions on chess strategy.
• Uschess.org is the website for the United State Chess Federation.