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Chess Calculation Process – Tactics Course Syllabus

This syllabus page outlines the calculation process taught in my tactics course — the “how to think” system behind winning combinations. For the full tactics map, articles, and training tools, use the Chess Tactics Hub →

Forcing-Move Priority

• Understanding forcing moves: checks, captures, threats (and why they limit the opponent’s options)
• Practical prioritisation: why you can’t calculate everything, and what to examine first
• When forcing moves have downsides — and how to avoid “helping the opponent”

Candidate Moves & Variation Discipline

• Building a candidate move list instead of guessing one move at a time
• Difference between a main line and variations (and how to stay organised)
• Calculating with the opponent’s best defense in mind, not just the “hope line”

Core Calculation Prompts Used Throughout the Course

• Weakness of the last move: a fast trigger for finding tactical opportunities
• Killer common squares: recurring tactical squares that decide games
• The “in-effect” clause: what has changed in the position after a move?
• “Check all checks” — with realism: not all checks are equal

Turning Calculation into Real-Game Accuracy

• Reducing missed tactics with consistent scanning and decision habits
• Recognising when a position contains tactical energy (and when it doesn’t)
• How calculation and pattern training reinforce each other (process + patterns)