Get ready to learn chess the Bobby Fischer way! In this episode, we explore excerpts from the renowned book, "Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess," co-authored by International Grandmaster Bobby Fischer, Stuart Margulies, Ph.D., and Donn Mosenfelder. Published by Bantam Books, this book is hailed as the fastest, most efficient, and enjoyable book on chess ever compiled.

Whether you're a complete beginner who doesn't know how to play or someone looking to improve your game, this book is designed to help. It utilizes a unique method called programmed instruction, breaking down complex ideas into small steps or "frames" that guide you through learning. Each frame provides information and asks you to respond, helping you actively absorb the material thoroughly and quickly.

We delve into the book's introductory sections, covering the basic setup of the chessboard with its 64 squares and the pieces: King, Queen, Rook, Bishop, Knight, and Pawn. We touch upon how each piece moves and captures, as well as special moves like Castling and En Passant. You'll also learn about the relative values of the pieces.

The core of the book, and our discussion, focuses on the crucial concept of checkmate. We explore what it means to be in check and how checkmate occurs when the King has no escape. We look at examples of checkmate and also the concept of stalemate. Crucially, the book teaches the three fundamental defenses against check: capturing the attacking piece, interposing another piece between the King and the attacker, or moving the King to a safe square.

A significant portion of the early material focuses on Back-Rank Mates and their Defenses and Variations. We discuss how mates are accomplished on the back rank and examine positions illustrating useful versus useless interposition. Through numerous examples and puzzles presented in the book's programmed format, you'll gain insight into recognizing back-rank threats and finding the correct defensive maneuvers. The importance of pinning pieces in these situations is also highlighted.

Learn how applying Fischer's principles can make you a much better player. This episode provides a glimpse into the structured and effective teaching method of this classic chess guide.

References:

Fischer, B., Margulies, S., & Mosenfelder, D. (1982). Bobby Fischer teaches chess. Bantam Books.