CAP: Capture, Attack and Pressure

By CEO National Master Evan Rabin 

Capture, attack and pressure are words that beginners often use interchangably but mean different things. Each words relates to creating complications for one’s opponent but they are not synonymous. Let’s discuss the nuances:

Capture means the act of taking one’s opponent’s piece, which is symbolized by an “x”. For instance in this position, white has five possible captures:

  1. Rxe8+
  2. Rxh5+
  3. Rxd5?
  4. Bxh6?
  5. Qxf7+?

Of course, three of those moves get question marks as black could take something back of much more value. Rxh5 would be a good capture but Rxe8+ is by far the best.

Attack means one has an immiment threat of capturing a piece. To notice attacks is the main reason “If my opponent has another move, what would it be?” is one of three questions one should ask everytime his opponent makes a move.

For instance, in this postion, Matthew Coy just played e3, attacking my white pawn on f2. If it was his turn again, he would certainly play exf2+, not only winning a pawn but creating a double attack on my king and rook. I played Bxe3, which did lead to a win; however, of course I missed a simple mate in 2:

  1. Qe6+ Kh8
  2. Ng6#

Pressure refers to eying a square or piece, without threatening to capture it.

For instance, in the Giuoco Piano, white’s bishop on c4 is putting pressure on the ‘weak’ f7 pawn but is not attacking it. If it was white’s turn again, he would not play Bxf7+. While he would force black to expose his king by playing Kxf7, the lost bishop would not compensate for black’s slightly exposed king.

Capture

Attack 

Pressure

 

180 thoughts on “CAP: Capture, Attack and Pressure”

  1. Looking for an ideal and up-to-date makeup? Join us to discover the best tips, beauty techniques and new products in the beauty market.

    Fashion and beauty
    Do you know that each season has its own visual beauty? For example, in spring and summer, choose bright and natural colors such as blue and green for lip and eye makeup. In autumn and winter, dark colors such as brown and bronze are more popular. With this method, you not only keep yourself up to date, but also always consider your customers.[Link deleted]

  2. سافت استارترهای 3RW زیمنس برای راه اندازی عادی طراحی شده اند. در صورت استارت سنگین یا افزایش فرکانس راه اندازی، باید واحد بزرگتری انتخاب شود. سافت استارترهای 3RW50 و 3RW52 را می توان در شبکه های تامین ایزوله (سیستم های IT) تا 600 ولت AC و سافت استارترهای 3RW55 حتی تا 690 ولت استفاده کرد.
    <a href="[Link deleted]سافت استارتر زیمنس

  3. This text provides a clear and concise explanation of the differences between capture, attack, and pressure in chess. It is well-written and easy to understand, even for beginners. The examples are helpful in illustrating the concepts. Overall, this is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their chess understanding.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *