5 golden rules of the opening

Understanding a few basic principles is far more useful than memorising openings. A player who follows these rules builds a solid game even in openings they don't know by name.

1. Take the centre

The e4, d4, e5 and d5 squares are the heart of the board. Pawns in the centre give your pieces room and restrict your opponent's pieces.

2. Develop your pieces

Bring out your knights and bishops. Try to bring a new piece into play every move; moving the same piece twice is usually a waste of time.

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3. Castle early

Castling takes the king to a safe corner and brings a rook into play. Aim to castle within the first 10 moves.

4. Don't bring the queen out early

The queen is strong, but if she comes out early, your opponent's minor pieces gain tempo by attacking her. Bring the queen into play after the minor pieces are developed.

5. Connect your rooks

When all the minor pieces are developed and you have castled, the back rank is clear and the rooks protect each other. That's the sign the opening is over.

Tip: When playing the computer, use these five rules like a checklist. After the game, look at your opening moves in the analysis.

To learn more, see the opening lessons in the learning section.