Figurine Algebraic Notation FAN in Chess

Explanation

Figurine Algebraic Notation, abbreviated FAN, uses a picture of each piece instead of its initial. Thus ♘f3 expresses the same move as Nf3, and ♗xe6+ expresses the same move as Bxe6+. Coordinates, captures, and suffixes follow the rules of .

Pawn moves still have no piece symbol, so e4 remains e4. The main advantage is that a reader does not need to know whether a language labels the knight N, C, or another letter. Figurines are therefore common in books, magazines, and interfaces for international audiences.

The Portable Game Notation (PGN) specification, a text format for storing games, describes FAN as a visual alternative to SAN and states that the two are otherwise identical. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) also recommends figurines for pieces in printed periodicals. FAN is still move text: it is not a diagram of the and does not show every piece in a position by itself.

Usage and context

The exact appearance depends on the font or interface, but each symbol must identify the piece type clearly.

Common confusions

Letter-based SAN

FAN and SAN encode the same information. The difference is visual: FAN shows a figurine where SAN shows a piece letter.

View term

Position diagram

A FAN sequence records moves one after another. A diagram represents every piece in one position at a particular moment.

Sources

1.FIDE Laws of Chess taking effect from 1 January 2023, FIDE
2.Standard: Portable Game Notation Specification and Implementation Guide, rec.games.chess community; coordinated by Steven J. Edwards

Explanation

Usage and context

Common confusions

Sources

Related terms