Here again we look at an aspect of chess that is often underestimated. See how Michael Adams uses his king for positive action in his instructive technical win over Azmaiparashvili.
In simplified positions, even before the endgame occurs, it's a wise player who already has in mind a role for his king. Indeed, activating the king can make all the difference as you'll see in the latest video from Chessanytime's team.
One notorious endgame that occurs fairly frequently is that of bishop and 'Wrong rook's pawn' versus bare king. What do I mean by 'Wrong rook's pawn'? See the video, and the follow-up, and you'll understand!
Here we come back to the important subject of Zugzwang in endgames and how strong players exploit the restricted nature of their opponent's position. Did you know that the 'opposition' is just a specific form of Zugzwang?
The idea of one player having to give ground or make a concession because of 'Zugzwang', is a common theme in endgames. Here is an instructive example with Kramnik demonstrating how to make the most of his advantage.
In practical games it's important to recognize the use of general principles in order to find solutions to technical problems. Here is an instructive example from one of my own games.
An important technique in knight endgames is using an extra pawn. The stronger side needs to improve his own pieces, restrict the opponent's and then create threats on both wings.
Slightly more complicated examples when White has a queen and Black a pawn close to the queening square. Remember the rule (from Endgames 3) that if Black's pawn is on the seventh rank and one of the a,c,f and h pawns he has drawing chances due to a stalemate defence.
Even if the a-pawn gets to the seventh rank, it doesn't necessary mean that one can win. Watch the video to help you understand the slight differences that can change the result.
