Time control

A time control defines the relationship between moves and the chess clock. It may require a minimum number of moves within a first period and then grant another period to finish the game. It can also give one block of time for all moves from the start.

The regulations may add a per-move timing mechanism. An increment adds time to the clock according to the stated rule; Bronstein delay restores after the move up to a fixed amount of the time just used, so a move completed within that amount leaves the main clock balance unchanged. These mechanisms are parts of the time control, not separate pools that a player chooses between.

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) gives an example of 90 minutes for 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with 30 cumulative seconds added per move from move one. The important point is to read every component: the length of each period, any move requirement, and any extra time. A sudden-death period is a final period in which all remaining moves must be completed with the time available.