White

White can mean the player, the side, or that side's sixteen pieces. It is the rules-based name for the lighter set, not a requirement that the pieces be literally white. A physical set may use cream, ivory, or another light tone as long as it contrasts clearly with Black.

White makes the first move, after which the players alternate one move at a time. In the starting position, White's non-pawn pieces occupy the first rank, the horizontal row numbered 1, and the eight white pawns occupy rank 2. Board rank numbers increase away from White's side.

White Does Not Mean Light Squares

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

h8

g

f

e

d

c

b

a

Both bishops belong to White even though c1 is dark and f1 is light.

The Side Keeps Its Identity When the Board Rotates

Black is shown at the bottom because of the selected orientation, but White remains the lighter set and has the first move. White's pieces are not restricted to light squares: the white bishops on c1 and f1 begin on squares of different colors.

1. Both bishops belong to White even though c1 is dark and f1 is light.