Jeremy E. Sarber

The pawns in chess get a bad rap. They are perceived as useless in the game. Not true. Now I’m no chess expert, but I love the game and I have studied it. Here’s a few things to remember about pawns in order to utilize them in your game.

Connected pawns are much stronger. Avoid breaking them up into small, isolated pockets across the board. This is practically unavoidable late in the game, but try and keep them connected in the beginning.

Pawn chains that look like /\ from your side of the board are better than chains that look like V. They are stronger. The pawns provide the most protection when they are centered on the board. Keeping control of the center is always a good idea.

Doubled pawns are weak. Two of your pawns (one in front of the other) create a liability for you.

Avoid blocking your bishops and queen. As you progress your chain of pawns towards the center, do not allow your bishops and queen to be blocked by your own pawns. This creates an obvious disadvantage to you.

Do not be fooled into moving your pawns forward. Your opponent may intentionally lure your pawns forward in order to break your chain. Look before you leap.

Do not sacrifice pawns without a purpose. It is common for players to move their pawns into position to be captured. Even if the result will be an even exchange with your opponent (pawn for pawn), avoid this if it is not a part of a greater master plan.

Look for opportunities to get a passed pawn. A passed pawn is one that makes it to the other side of the board. Of course, you could then exchange the piece for another (queen, rook, bishop, etc.). Do not make this your ultimate goal in the game, but if the opportunity avails itself, go get it. Be sure to defend your passed pawn.

Avoid moving pawns in front of your castled king. Those pawns in front of your castled king are there to protect your king. Do not move them unless absolutely necessary.

Next time, I’ll discuss utilizing your knights. Until then, practice your new knowledge of pawns against me. Click here to challenge me to a chess match on GameKnot.com.