How Long Does it Take to Learn Chess- Vital Facts to Know

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Chess is a strategic game that requires logical thinking, proper analysis of the given situation and quick response. Hence, merely learning to move the pieces alone is insufficient for this game. So, how long does it take to learn chess? Typically, it would take you a few years to completely master this game.

Furthermore, you should remain alert and have sound judgment while learning chess. There is a difference between learning chess and becoming a master at the game.

You have to make your moves wisely from the start of the game to score a win. You should know how to implement every move, manage and ultimately win the game of chess.

Although many will say that knowing chess is a talent that only a few unique minds possess, frequently playing against an advanced chess player will improve your skills similar to any other sport.

So, if you are curious about how long it takes to learn the game, you can find more about it below.

1. How Long Does it Take to Learn Chess?

Realistically, the answer is simple. It is dependent on the time you dedicate to learn and practice chess. So, if you play constantly, you can master the game within one to two years.

Are you interested in knowing tips to learn the game faster? Have a look below.

1.1. Set Achievable Goals

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In chess, similar to anything else, you should have some objectives to pursue when you begin to learn the game. Have a purpose as you train and practice. This can help check your learning progress.

As a novice player, you can set assessable and achievable goals. Then, you can concentrate on working towards these goals. Remember that everything works best when it has a purpose.

You can set a goal to learn about the role of each chess piece in the game. This will help you to move the pieces effectively against your opponent in a match.

As you follow your list of goals, you will witness significant development in your game. Occasionally, you can even watch an opponent play and find out the areas of improvement in your game.

In addition, you can get a chess coach to guide you as you try to achieve your goals. A chess coach can be an advanced chess player who will show you how to play chess through a few games. He will also make the complex game easier for you.

Finally, ensure that you set specific goals and then work on them until you have completed them.

1.2. Practice Constantly

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Play a game every day to remind yourself constantly of the tactics involved in this very strategic game. This will greatly determine how long you take to learn chess.

The amount of time depends on your dedication and persistence while executing strategic moves in all the chess games.

Engaging in routine games will help you achieve pattern recognition.  Play chess games online with other chess players. You can play different levels on the computer, including easy, intermediate and hard. Also, try solving chess puzzles.

You should devote at least one to two hours of daily practice for a year or two to achieve confidence in your chess skills. This is a way for you to stay focused on your goals.

1.3. Gain Theoretical and Practical Knowledge

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Initially, you might focus mainly on theoretical knowledge and ignore the practical part. You can learn all the basic rules, calculation skills and abstract concepts in the theoretical part. You can study the strategies, but theoretical knowledge will only get you that far.

Hence, you must maintain a balance between theory and practice. This will give you a chance to implement what you have learned. Apart from watching several chess games between other players, you should also play just as much.

You also have to implement your theoretical knowledge into the game, see the tactical positions and ultimately use them in the game.

Imagine a situation where you are theoretically familiar with the castling concept, but on the chess board, your opponent plays it to obstruct you from doing so. Only experience will show you how to manoeuvre in such scenarios.

2. How Long Do Different Age Groups Take to Learn Chess?

The time taken to learn chess varies for different age groups. You can find those details below.

2.1. Young Children below 10 Years

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Children below ten years of age can also learn how to play chess. They are not under any pressure and have a lot of time to spend since they will mostly be playing with friends and family.

Thus, this age group has a lot of time to devote to learning chess. If they are very passionate about chess, you can seek the help of a chess coach to teach them. They can master the game within two to three years if they practice frequently.

They can start learning chess at a basic level with simple moves, including moving pawns, castling and the most fascinating move: promoting a pawn.

So if your child expresses interest in learning chess, you should support them. Some chess prodigies start at a young age.

However, you cannot expect a child at this age to show much progress because their scientific-logical reasoning is still low.

2.2. Children between 11-15 Years

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Children of this age group will be capable of reasoning and understanding complex chess concepts, including the middle game strategy, and they can master the ability to calculate. They also have lots of time to learn chess.

Their minds are hungry and fresh, and they will be open to learning new testing and complex things. This game will help improve their cognitive thinking in other aspects of life. They have great possibilities to become advanced chess players if they are consistent.

Furthermore, this age is great for learning chess because the children can take up chess as a co-curricular activity after school. It could take 1-2 years to master chess for them.

2.3. Adults- 18 Years and Above

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People in this age group take very long to master chess because they are involved in multiple activities. They often have very little time to learn and practice as little as once or twice a week or month.

3. FAQs

Is Chess Hard to Learn?

No, typically, it is not hard to learn chess. You can learn the basic rules, including how to move the chess pieces, to checkmate and other crucial tactics.

However, mastering the game is a little complex as it involves knowing the tactics and strategies of the game. Furthermore, this is what reshapes your mind to be creative, and some can find this challenging. Learning chess also requires more dedication and time investment.

Is There an Age Limit to Learn Chess?

There is no such thing as being too young or old to learn chess. Many young players have been able to master chess skills and have emerged as excellent players. Age is no hindrance when learning this board game.

Most people learn and play chess even when they are old, and they still grasp the tactics to get past the challenges in chess and master the game. Hence, you can play a game of chess anytime.

Does Learning Chess Improve IQ?

Chess players possess high scientific and logical reasoning capacity. They develop a remarkable ability to think out of the box and have a sense of creativity. In addition, the game also improves memory function and provides exercise to the brain.

Chess increases your problem-solving skills. Constant chess games keep your brain active and prepare you to think fast in desperate situations. So frequent chess games indeed improve IQ.

Furthermore, some have stated that playing chess stimulates brain function so much that it prevents Alzheimer’s and dementia and generally leads to healthier living.

What is the 50 Rule in the Game of Chess?

The 50 rule in the game of chess is an interesting one. It states that a draw can be declared provided no piece is captured and there is no movement of pawns for 50 consecutive moves.

Is Chess a Game Reserved Only For Genius Minds?

Contrary to what many think, chess is not a game reserved only for genius minds. It is a game with skills that can be taught to anyone regardless of intelligence.

4. Conclusion

Chess is one of the oldest and still frequently played board games worldwide. It reshapes your thinking abilities and trains your mind to recognize patterns, calculate risks and be creative.

So, how long does it take to learn Chess? Generally, there is no specific time to learn chess. It depends on how much time you invest in the whole learning process. Furthermore, constant practice is also required.

Some have suggested that it takes years to master the game, but others say all they need is a month maximum. When you are learning as a beginner, take the time to balance between the theoretical knowledge and the practical sessions.

Furthermore, you can learn at a pace that is convenient for you. Most importantly, you should enjoy the game.

 

Last Updated on by Sanjana

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1 Comment
  • I couldn’t learn chess until now and it’s because I was never serious about learning it but after going through the post it brought my interest again to learn Chess, credit goes to your post.

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