Chess is complex. There are several things that need to be learned. – These two perceptions are shared by a majority of chess newbies, and it’s not surprising why many of them think that chess is overwhelming. Even an attempt to understand the fundamentals is an activity that appears quite frightening. However, with the right mind set and attitude, you can definitely add chess to your repertoire of skills.

First, prepare the chess board and place therein the pieces properly. Next, study the basic moves, fundamental strategies and your purpose for playing. In this article, I’ll teach you these things. And I’ll try explaining things as simply as I can. I’ll even employ the ABC method. There’s a saying that goes, "Simplicity is the essence of a genius." I don’t know the person who started the line, but I completely agree with that person! Anyway, these are the ABCs:

A) The Board: This is made up of squares painted black and white. These are arranged as 8 rows of 8 squares. According to the rules, you must arrange the chess pieces at the start of the game – only on the first 2 rows neareast the edge of the board.

B) The Pieces: Although the pieces are, based on tradition, usually termed "black" or "white", they can actually be any colour. Each player is expected to have a king, a queen, 8 pawns and 2 pieces for each of the following: horse, tower and bishop. Pawns are placed in the front row and bishops, knights and rooks and king and queen at the back row.

C) The Moves:

The Pawns: Two squares are allowed in the first move, but afterwards, pawns can only move 1 square at a time. Although they are limited to 1 step only after the pioneering advance, pawns can seize your opponent’s pieces in a diagonal direction.

The Rooks: Rooks can freely advance, retreat or glide sideways. However, they can only do so when the board is clear. No skipping over another piece is allowed.

Knights: Allowing your knights to take action is trickier. Count 2 spaces forward, and then further move 1 square to the side – either a left or a right will do – to finish.

The Bishops: Let your bishops glide diagonally on the chess board. Just like the rooks, the bishops can move several squares per turn – if and only if no skipping of other pieces occur.

The Queen: The queen’s moves combine those of the bishop and the rook. She can advance or retreat vertically, horizontally and diagonally, but she can’t jump over other pieces.

King: Your king can only move one step per turn, but you have the freedom to position him diagonally, sideways, forward or back.

All chess games share the same primary rule: Whoever can get the enemy’s king wins the match. And if this means capturing the other pieces first, then so be it! Furthering your chess playing skills is a process. You may falter at first, but after playing several matches, you gain confidence and the ability to pull off more advanced moves. Enjoy the game!