Check vs Checkmate vs Stalemate
The three situations beginners mix up the most, finally made clear.
Read the guide →Chess Basics
Check, checkmate, and stalemate explained
The difference between check, checkmate, and stalemate decides who wins.
How to Get Out of Check
The only three legal responses when your king is under attack.
Read the guide →More in Chess Basics
← All Chess Basics
How each piece moves
Setting up the board correctly
Special moves: castling, en passant, promotion
Reading and writing chess notation
The value of the pieces
Rules, draws, and how a game ends
The three phases: opening, middlegame, endgame
Basic etiquette and how to play online
Common beginner mistakes to avoid