What Is a Chess Combination?

A chess combination is a sequence of forcing moves — often involving a sacrifice — calculated in advance to achieve a concrete goal such as checkmate, decisive material gain, or a winning position.

Combination vs Tactic

A tactic is usually a single idea: a fork, pin, skewer, or discovered attack. A combination links several tactical ideas together into a forced sequence.

• Tactics are short and local
• Combinations are extended and calculated
• Most combinations include a sacrifice

The Core Ingredients of a Combination

• Forcing moves (checks, captures, threats)
• One or more tactical motifs
• A clear target (mate, material, king safety)
• Calculation until the position becomes quiet

Why Players Miss Combinations

• They stop calculating too early
• They don’t recognize the target pattern
• They underestimate sacrifices
• They confuse hope with calculation

This definition page explains the concept. The guide shows you how to spot, calculate, and execute combinations in practice.