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By 1989, Judit’s ELO rating was 2555. She was the top female player in the world and was chasing open rankings. In December 1991, she obtained her final GM norm by winning the Hungarian National Championship. At 15 years, 4 months old, she broke GM Bobby Fischer’s record to become the youngest GM in history, male or female. She was the fourth female chess grandmaster in history.
Most people will not be good at chess when they first start playing, but they will see rapid improvement with study and regular play. This can be objectively measured by ratings or subjectively assessed by something like checkmating an opponent for the first time. What comes next is what makes chess a perfect growth mindset activity. You can continue to improve at chess for as long as you study and play.
Why are we talking about brain science in a chess blog? Simple, chess has all the elements scientists recommend to exercise your brain (and more). It’s even been shown to delay or prevent the symptoms of dementia. What can senior chess fans expect to gain from regular study and play?
Some chess current affairs are of such broad interest that the big news organizations widely report them. Championship matches, new records, and major scandals often break into everyday headlines. If you’re a regular consumer of news articles and broadcasts, you’ll probably catch most of the “big” stories about elite chess players. Many people have cut back on their consumption of big media news, though. How can you be sure you don’t miss a story?
Chess can help stave off “summer slide” by stimulating important skills like pattern recognition, focus, and short-term memory. Chess is more accessible than many activities for children for two reasons. One, it doesn’t require loads of expensive equipment and shoes to play. Two, chess is open to kids with physical or other challenges that make team sports or outdoor activities less possible or appealing. Adverse weather and heat waves won't affect chess camp like outdoor sports. Finally, chess is forever! People play chess throughout their lives, often coming back to it as adults. It’s a lifetime skill that lasts longer than those popsicle stick stars (which we also love, don’t get us wrong).
There is something inherent to the human condition that makes us think that, maybe, somehow, we missed our calling, and we could actually be a secret genius. A new chess player thinks they might have stumbled into their gift and could actually become a great chess player. The reality is that you are good enough to beat your friends and family, but becoming a grandmaster is incredibly difficult. But, is it impossible?
Studies show that people who play chess can develop and maintain important cognitive skills, preserve cognitive function as they age, and even lessen the effects of neurological differences like ADHD. In this article, we’ll sort out some of the facts and myths around how playing chess can maintain your brain.
You can play free online chess in seconds, but choosing the right platform is harder. I tested every major site to see what actually works. This guide shows where you can play, learn, and improve f...
The World Chess Hall of Fame isn’t quiet or dusty. It’s bright, bold, and full of surprises — like a playable outdoor board, rotating exhibitions, and live music under chandeliers. Located in the heart of St. Louis, this museum makes chess feel alive. Here’s how to visit, what you’ll see, and why it matters.
Are you trying to increase attendance at your chess meets? Learn from the biggest chess clubs in the United States. Here's how you can let more chess players know about your chess club!
Chess is hard. Improving is even harder. If you want to get better, you need a good training plan for chess. Here are six keys to success for any chess training plan.
For chess enthusiasts, playing on a real board is ideal, but when you're traveling or away from home, the most popular online chess sites offer the perfect solution. Platforms like Chess.com provide a vast community and lessons, while Lichess offers a free, ad-free experience. Chessify’s powerful analysis tools cater to advanced players, and Playchess.com lets you watch live matches and tournaments.
