Tactics by rating
Easy tactics from 800 to 999
Published Updated
Use this band as a training level, not a label for the player. The guide explains what the positions demand, how to solve them deliberately, and when you are ready for the next step.
On this page
What this rating band tests
The puzzles now mix direct mates with forks, pins and undefended pieces. Build a forcing-move order — checks, captures, threats — and learn to notice when one move attacks two targets.
This local band contains 182 positions. Puzzle ratings measure how often solvers find a position, not your over-the-board strength, and numbers do not transfer exactly between sites. Use the band as a difficulty dial: aim for positions that make you calculate but still let you explain the solution afterwards.
The mistake to watch for
Stopping after finding a move that wins something. Calculate the opponent’s most forcing reply; a fork is useless if your king is mated or the forking piece can be taken.
Common themes in this set
These are the most frequent authored motif guides represented in the band. Learn a pattern first, then return to the mixed trainer so the label is no longer given away.
Three positions to calculate
Do not move immediately. List candidates, calculate the best defence, and state the final result before trying your move on the board.
Position rated 800
39... Rf1+ 40. Rxf1 40... Qxf1#Position rated 913
56. Qg6#Position rated 999
17... Qxh2#A focused training routine
- Say the motif after each solution.
- Calculate one reply beyond the apparent win.
- Repeat failed puzzles later the same day.
- Pair the set with the fork and pin lessons.
When to move up
Move to the next band when you regularly find the first move, can explain the opponent’s best defence, and can reconstruct the final position without guessing. If accuracy collapses, step back for a session and fix the process rather than chasing a larger number.