Analysis

Examining the possibilities hidden in a position and assessing the positions that arise from it. Analysis includes calculating variations, comparing the resulting positions, and drawing a conclusion — the decision to choose one continuation over another.

Kinds of analysis

Botvinnik divides analysis into two kinds.

The first is analysis at the board, without moving the pieces. This kind of analysis requires a player to be able to picture different positions in the mind's eye and assess them.

The second kind is home analysis. Here the player is not limited by time and may move the pieces.

Warning

Another difference between home analysis and a practical game deserves mention: during a game, the opponent puts your analysis to a critical test, but in home analysis it is easy to lose objectivity.

Analysis for improvement

To improve the quality of your analysis, it helps to publish individual pieces of analytical work — this opens them up to criticism. Published analysis is the surest way for a player to improve. It's worth adding that in correspondence chess, a practical game is combined with the chance to analyze at home.

Calculating variations and assessing the position — that is the art of analysis. It is no accident that every outstanding player has also been an excellent analyst.