Defense

Defense begins with understanding what the opponent is trying to achieve. A threat may be immediate, such as checkmate or the capture of a piece, or strategic, such as controlling a square, advancing a pawn toward the last rank so it can become another piece, or preparing an entry square, a point from which a piece can penetrate the position. A defensive move prevents or reduces that unfavorable outcome.

Before responding, separate the actual threat from a general feeling of danger. Ask what would happen if you did nothing, which piece or square supports the opponent's idea, and which forcing resources exist. Only then should you choose a method.

Basic defensive methods

• Protect or move the target under attack.
• Block the line used by a rook, bishop, or queen.
• Exchange an important attacking piece.
• Create a threat that forces the opponent to interrupt the attack.
• Prepare a liberating move that gives your pieces space and activity.

The best defense is not always the most active or the most passive. Sometimes a counterattack is right; in other cases, the defender should maintain a barrier, simplify into a holdable ending, or enter a phase of consolidation. Defensive quality depends on solving the specific problem without creating a larger one.