How do you set pre-moves in chess?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

To set pre-moves in chess, you first need to understand what a pre-move is. In chess, a pre-move is a move that you make before your opponent has made their move. This can be a useful strategy, especially in online chess games where the clock is ticking and every second counts.

To execute a pre-move, you need to be quick and precise. The first step is to identify the piece you want to move. This can be done by left clicking on the piece with your mouse or tapping on it if you are playing on a touchscreen device. By holding down the left click, you can then drag the piece to the square where you want it to go.

It is important to note that you must hold down the left click until you have moved the piece to the desired square. Releasing the left click prematurely will cancel the pre-move. Make sure to be careful and deliberate in your movements to avoid any mistakes.

When setting a pre-move, it is crucial to consider your opponent’s possible moves and plan accordingly. Anticipating your opponent’s moves can give you an advantage and allow you to make quicker decisions. However, keep in mind that your pre-move is not guaranteed to be executed if your opponent makes a different move than expected.

To further enhance your pre-move strategy, it is beneficial to be familiar with common opening moves and their variations. This knowledge can help you anticipate your opponent’s moves and set more effective pre-moves.

In addition to using pre-moves in online chess games, you can also practice setting pre-moves in offline scenarios. For example, you can play against a computer program and try to make pre-moves during your opponent’s turn. This can help improve your speed and accuracy in executing pre-moves.

It is worth noting that pre-moves are not allowed in all chess variants or in certain tournament settings. Some online platforms or chess programs may have specific rules regarding pre-moves, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the rules of the game you are playing.

Setting pre-moves in chess can be a valuable strategy to save time and gain an advantage in online games. By left clicking on the piece you want to move, holding it down, and dragging it to the desired square, you can set a pre-move. However, it is crucial to anticipate your opponent’s moves and be aware that pre-moves are not guaranteed to be executed if the opponent makes a different move. Practice and familiarity with common opening moves can enhance your pre-move strategy.