How to Get Better at Chess (Even If You’re a Complete Beginner)

So you’ve learned how the pieces move, now what? Whether you’re brand new to chess or have been playing casually for years, improving your game can feel like a mystery. The good news is that anyone can get better at chess with the right structure, mindset, and a bit of consistency.

Here are our top tips from the Chelsea Chess coaching team to help you make real progress, even if you only have a few minutes a day.

1. Learn the Basics Properly

It sounds obvious, but the fastest-improving players are usually the ones who understand why each rule and principle exists — not just how to move the pieces.

Focus on:

• Control of the centre (your pawns and pieces should aim for the middle of the board).

• Piece development (get your knights and bishops out early).

• King safety (castle before attacking).

These simple habits stop most blunders before they happen and form the foundation of every good game.

2. Play Slower Games

If you’re playing blitz (3 or 5-minute games) and wondering why you’re stuck, that’s why.

Try playing 15 or 10 games online or over the board. Slower games give you time to think, calculate, and spot mistakes before they happen. You’ll learn far more from ten thoughtful games than a hundred rushed ones.

3. Study Your Own Games

After every game, ask three questions:

1. What went well?

2. What did I miss?

3. What will I do differently next time?

Tools like Lichess.org or Chess.com let you analyse your moves automatically but the real learning happens when you try to understand the ideas behind each mistake.

4. Solve Chess Puzzles

Puzzles are the best way to sharpen your tactics, that “aha!” moment when you spot a fork, pin or even checkmate.

Try solving a few puzzles every day for 5–10 minutes. You’ll start to recognise patterns faster during real games. lichess.org/training is our favourite puzzle trainer!

5. Watch and Learn (the Right Way)

There’s a lot of chess content online, but the best learning happens when you’re engaged.

We recommend:

• Watching one short video, then trying the same idea in a game.

• Following chess streamers who explain their thinking (not just blitz through moves).

• Recreating famous games on your board to understand the logic.

6. Take Lessons or Get Feedback

If you want to improve faster, a coach can make all the difference. A good chess coach spots habits, explains concepts clearly, and gives you a structured plan, saving you months of trial and error.

At Chelsea Chess, we offer online and in-person lessons for all ages, matching each student with the perfect coach for their level and goals. If you’d like personalised guidance, get in touch today and take your next step with a Chelsea Chess coach.

Get in touch today!