Letter #07 -  2010

Sub:    Calculated moves
Date:   02/22/10  11:21:09 PM EDT
From:  test_avi
To:      service@Chess-poster.com

How far ahead do Chess players can calculate?

Thanks.

Dear viewer,

“It depends on the position, the player, and the time control. In sharp tactical positions, some players may calculate forcing sequences as far as 12 moves (24 plies) ahead. In quiet positions very little calculation is needed, though 3-5 moves (6-10 plies) is a reasonable average for that kind of position.

Players calculate further in more tactical positions and calculate less in non-tactical positions. Some players have strong instincts and rely more on these than on the calculation of variations. Others prefer to play 'concrete Chess' analyzing out as many possibilities as possible. The more 'concrete' the player's style, the further ahead they will calculate.” (source: http://chyss.tripod.com/Questions.html)

The following diagram shows a very complex position. Gary Kasparov is reported to have said this was his "Best game ever." This game involves at least 14 or more calculated moves ahead (28 plies) and can be replayed on a pgn viewer at the following page:

http://www.chess-poster.com/english/chess_problems/gm_problems/kasparov_vs_topalov.htm

Gary Kasparov / Veselin Topalov 
61st (Hoogovens) Chess Festival / Wijk aan Zee, Ned



Kasparov moves Rxd4!!

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