Opening Principles

1. Center Pawns:

Start a game by moving your center pawns - the King (e2/e7) and Queen (d2/d7) pawns (NOT the side pawns)

2. Control the Center:

The four middle squares (e4, e5, d4, & d5) are the most important and influential squares on the board, much like the center square in tic-tac-toe.

3. Develop Your Pieces:

Developing your pieces - minor pieces (Knights & Bishops) first, followed by Rooks and the Queen - to key offensive/defensive squares.

4. Protect your King by Castling:

Castling not only protects the King near the corner, but also helps develop your Rook towards the center of the board.