Calculation is the ability to mentally analyze moves and variations before you play them, mainly to determine whether a move is safe and whether a tactical idea works.
Forcing and Non-Forcing Moves
When it comes to calculation, it is important to distinguish between forcing and non-forcing moves.
Forcing Moves
Forcing moves are moves that strongly limit your opponent’s choices. Checks, captures, and threats are forcing because your opponent often has to respond to them immediately.
A forcing line is a sequence of moves where each move limits the opponent’s replies. By focusing on forcing lines, you can calculate more clearly and efficiently.
What About Moves That Aren’t Forcing?
You should not ignore non-forcing moves, but you do not need to calculate them as you would forcing moves. You can judge them through strategic understanding.
How Deep Should You Calculate?
Eventually, you want to reach the point where you can confidently calculate to the end of forcing lines. This may not be easy at first, so you need to build toward that level with dedicated practice.
A Simple Method for Better Calculation
There is a simple, well-known method that can help you train your ability to calculate forcing lines. It is called the CCT Calculation Method. I’ll show you how it works in the next lesson.