Training

* Half-open files (in positions without an open file) can be used to create pressure against the exposed Pawn.

MEDNIS says ‘good technique’ means:

(Hort) 6. Develop harmoniously! Play with all your pieces

1. not allowing counterplay

When playing stronger players, don’t stick to the script! Make a nuisance of yourself. Don’t make concessions.

* Patience is a virtue. Good nerves are essential: this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ever feel nervous during a game (boy, do I wish I could manage that!) but that you should not let your nervousness tempt you to poor decisions: e.g. make back away from a critical line, or make you try to force the issue too soon.

Portisch on forming a repertoire: “Your only task in the opening is to reach a playable middlegame.”

* QUEEN: Not very useful right at the start, because it may be harassed, but always powerful. Place it near the centre in the opening, behind the minor pieces – e2,d2 or f2/c2 are good squares – ready to jump out to make a raid in combination with other pieces. After some pieces have been exchanged, or you have a clear advantage, you can move the Queen further towards the little centre (e4,d4,e5,d5).

(Fine) 2. White’s problem in the opening is to secure the better position, while…

(Hort) 5. Develop flexibly!