A chess diagram is a small picture of a position, usually with White at the bottom. To read it, find the orientation, identify each piece symbol, check whose turn it is and read the caption for the task. After that, set it up on a real board if you want to try moves.
Step One: Orientation
Look for printed letters and numbers along the edges. If a to h runs left to right along the bottom, White is at the bottom. If the diagram is turned the other way, the labels will show it. Where there are no labels, assume White sits at the bottom unless the text says otherwise.
Step Two: Recognise the Symbols
Printed diagrams use small figures. Learn the shapes:
- The king has a cross on top.
- The queen has a crown with points.
- The bishop has a pointed head with a slit.
- The knight looks like a horse head.
- The rook looks like a castle tower.
- The pawn is the smallest and rounded.
White pieces are drawn light and Black pieces are drawn dark, or filled in.
Step Three: Find Who Moves
The caption usually says White to move or Black to move. Sometimes a small mark next to the board shows it. If nothing says, look for a hint in the text near the diagram, since the caption is the final guide.
Step Four: Scan the Position
- Locate both kings and note how safe each is.
- List any checks you can give.
- List any captures available to you.
- Look for pieces attacked but not defended.
- Then think about quiet moves.
Caption Phrases
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Mate in two | Force checkmate within two moves by the side to play |
| Find the best move | Look for the strongest move, often a tactic |
| White to play and win | A sequence leads to a decisive gain |
| Draw | The side to move can reach a drawn result |
Take your time on the first look. Many puzzle positions look crowded, but the solution usually involves only two or three pieces. Ask which enemy pieces are loosely defended, and which of your pieces already point at them. That question narrows the search quickly.
When you have a candidate move, play it out in your head and ask what the opponent can do in reply. A move that works only if the opponent cooperates is not a solution.
FAQ
Should I set up the position on a real board?
It helps at first because you can feel the moves. With practice you can solve straight from the page.
What do the small marks like arrows mean?
Authors sometimes add arrows or circles to point at a key idea. Read the caption to see what they stand for.
The Short Version
Check the orientation, recognise the figures, find the side to move and then scan for checks, captures and threats. The caption tells you the goal.