Good knight

A good knight is not a different kind of piece. It is a knight whose placement and function suit the position. It may control important squares, attack targets, blockade a dangerous pawn, defend critical points, or support an entry square, a point from which another piece can penetrate enemy territory.

What usually makes it strong

• It has several useful squares and is not trapped by its own pieces.
• It is supported and cannot easily be chased away by an enemy pawn.
• It attacks real targets or restricts opposing pieces.
• It has a route in and, when necessary, a route out.
• Its work contributes to the overall plan rather than merely controlling many squares.

Knights often thrive in a cramped position or behind blocked pawns because they can jump over them. In an open position, bishops and rooks may gain reach while a slow knight falls behind. Structure alone does not decide the matter, however. A central knight with no targets or one that can be chased away may be worse than a less impressive but stable knight.

Stability with targetsBlocking or defensive functionCentralization without utility

Stable and target oriented

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The pawns on d4 and f4 support the knight on e5 from both sides.

Stability and useful targets

The knight on e5 is supported by two pawns and cannot be driven away immediately. Its value appears on c6 and g6, two real targets that require continued defense.

1. The pawns on d4 and f4 support the knight on e5 from both sides.
2. From e5, the knight pressures c6 and g6; the pawns on b7 and h7 keep both targets defended.

When considering an exchange, compare the future functions of both pieces. Trading an excellent knight for a restricted bishop may remove your best piece and relieve the opponent, even when their nominal values are similar.