Discover insights and tips for chess strategy, improvement, and learning.
It’s a common question, and an understandable one. Chess has long carried the image of being a game for prodigies and intellectual elites. Many people assume that to succeed in chess, you must have a naturally high IQ, a mathematical mind, or the ability to calculate countless moves ahead with ease. But while chess certainly demands rigorous thinking, it is not reserved for a select few.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in chess, like you’re playing a lot but not improving, you’re not alone. At London Chess Academy, we work with beginners, intermediate players, and ambitious students every week, and we’ve noticed the same patterns again and again. The truth is: most people don’t struggle because they “aren’t smart enough” - they struggle because they’re training the wrong way. Whether you’re taking your first chess lesson, joining chess classes, or looking for structured chess coaching, avoiding these mistakes can save you months (or even years) of frustration.
It’s a question many people ask before starting: Can chess be self-taught? The short answer is yes. You can absolutely learn chess from books, YouTube videos, online platforms, and playing games on your own. Many players begin this way. You can learn the rules, basic principles, common openings, and even some tactical patterns.
Chess is a lifelong journey. Even the world champion continues to improve. There is always something new to learn, and there will always be someone stronger. True mastery can take decades. But becoming “good” at chess does not require a lifetime.
You may have heard the idea that success in chess follows an 80–20 principle. In simple terms: 80% dedication and structured hard work. 20% talent.
