How to Reach 1200+ ELO in Chess: 5 Essential Tips

How to Reach 1200+ ELO in Chess: 5 Essential Tips

If you’re struggling to break through the 1200 ELO barrier in chess, you’re not alone. Many beginners face similar challenges, especially after the common opening moves. Grandmaster Igor Smirnov shares the top five mistakes that players under 1200 ELO make and, more importantly, how to capitalize on them for your own improvement.

1. Falling for the Scholars Mate (Queen Attacks Early)
   Many beginners try for quick checkmates with moves like Qh5 or Qf3, aiming for the f7 (or f2) pawn.
   How to punish: Don’t panic; instead of weak pawn pushes, respond with development—bring your pieces out, and you can easily counterattack and even win material if your opponent overextends.
2. Passive Defense Instead of Development
   Players often defend against threats by playing passively, like d6 after e4 e5 Nf3, worrying about the e5-pawn.
   GM tip: Instead of only defending, play actively (for example, d4, c3) and look for surprise moves like Bxf7+ or Ne5! Sometimes these can lead directly to exposing and checkmating the king.
3. Overcommitting to Pins (Bishop pins knight prematurely)
   Beginners are eager to pin knights with moves like Bg4—often without preparation.
   How to exploit: Challenge the pin immediately (h3), recapture confidently, and launch double threats with moves like Qb3 that target multiple points (f7 and b7).
4. The Fried Liver Attack Trap
   The most common error is allowing the Fried Liver Attack by playing Nxd5 after the two knights’ defense (e4 e5 Nf3 Nc6 Bc4 Nf6 Ng5 d5 exd5 Nxd5?).
   How to punish: If you’re white, remember the immediate Nxf7! followed by Qf3+, forcing black’s king into a dangerous position.
   As black: Memorize the right defensive move to avoid this trap (don’t play Nxd5!).
5. Misplaying Castling and Piece Coordination
   Many under-1200 players waste time or misplace their pieces after castling instead of continuing to develop.
   Winning strategy: Keep up activity, use the central pawns effectively (d5 strikes, etc.), and coordinate threats by attacking weaknesses (like pins and open lines). Watch for simple tactics that win material or deliver checkmate.

Key Takeaway:

Most errors at the sub-1200 level are due to impatience and a lack of understanding of opening principles. Focus on piece development, king safety, and look for tactical shots rather than quick tricks. If you avoid these five mistakes—and exploit them when your opponents make them—you’ll reach (and surpass) 1200 ELO in no time!

For example games and more detailed explanations, check the full video:
Remote Chess Academy Video