Explanation
The symbol (=) records a draw offer on the scoresheet, the form used to write the moves of an over-the-board game. A draw is a result with no winner. Under the normal procedure of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), a player offers a draw after making a move and before pressing the clock; both players record the offer.
It is written after the move connected with the offer, as in Kb1 (=). The mark only says that the proposal was made. It does not say that the opponent accepted it or that the position is objectively equal.
If the opponent accepts, the final result is recorded as . If the offer is declined, play continues and (=) remains part of the historical record.
Common confusions
Draw result
1/2-1/2 says the game ended in a draw; (=) only says that a draw was offered.
View termEqual position
An equals sign can also evaluate a position as balanced. That evaluation does not record an offer.
Sources
- 1.FIDE Laws of Chess taking effect from 1 January 2023, FIDE
- 2.Appendix C. Algebraic Notation, FIDE Rules Commission
