p.7 Essentially, analysis is an evaluation of the prospects for both sides in a given position.
This evaluation may range from pointing out a winning one-move threat to detailed suggestions regarding lengthy and obscure
complications. An analysis should indicate general strategies, plans for executing those strategies, and most important, tactical
lines. In short, analysis points out who stands better and what should be done about it.
p.13 What is the essence of a chess master's art? Fundamentally it consists of the ability to analyze chess
positions. -M.M. Botvinnik
p.17 Begin exercising your mind's eye with moderately difficult problems. Steadily build
your strength
p.19 In general, analysis continues until a quiet position is reached.
p.33 A careful analysis of any position means knowing the past moves and the future possibilities: the
position is simply a snapshot of an ongoing process. Landmarks such as bad Bishops or weak pawns
are important only in that they suggest and shape future actions. These actions determine who stands better.
p.55 Rapid calculation depends in part on an orderly study of the threats in a position...
By ranking the threats, strongest to weakest, you discover where the critical battle will be fought.
p.58, 60 Finding and evaluating threats is essential to defensive play. You must know your
weak points and the precise strength of the enemy attack. Only then can you plan your defense. Discover the threat
first, then decide what to do... Remember that in defense the analytic process always starts by evaluating
the opponent's threats, even if the defender is on the move. Simply assume your adversary has the move and
try to find a threat for him.
p.95 To summarize this section:
- Badly situated pieces may suffer exploitation, directly or indirectly.
- Even centralized pieces can be misplaced.
- Be aware of each piece's function. Ask what your pieces can do for you.
- When you lack ideas, try mentally exchanging a pair of pieces. the resulting position may give you a clue.
- Finally, a fixed pawn structure often requires the pieces to conform; certain squares become permanent outposts
which guide planning.
p.108 To summarize this chapter: pawn structure is largely responsible for your choice of open lines.
- Although pawn breaks and sacrifices can open new files and diagonals, you have to plan on using existing
lines.
- Long before a combination is visible, decisions must be made on where to place each piece. The watchword
is cohesion: the pieces should complement one another. Setups based on a hoped-for surprise raid or trap
ought to be avoided.
p.131 In summary, then, to play positions in which attack and defense are roughly balanced, you must be ready
to abandon a scheme the moment it achieves maximum concessions.
p.158 In summary, before entering a maneuvering game, analyze precisely to preclude tactical surprises. Once
you have found some ideas, form a plan using elements of position: pawn structure, placement of the pieces, and open
lines.
