For Beginners
Welcome to our Beginners’ Corner, where new players can find everything they need to start their chess journey. From free online training tools to recommended physical boards and scoresheets, we’ve curated a list of resources to help you learn and enjoy the game.
Free Online Tools
Lichess.org
- A completely free platform offering puzzles, live matches, game analysis, and training lessons.
- Features user-friendly design and a global community of players at every level.
- Visit Lichess.org
ChessKid.com
- A child-friendly environment with step-by-step lessons, fun videos, and safe chat options for younger players.
- Contains interactive puzzles designed to gradually build your skills.
- Visit ChessKid.com
Chess.com (Free Features)
- While it has premium tiers, the free version still gives access to daily puzzles, basic lessons, and live or rapid games against opponents worldwide.
- Excellent for practicing openings, playing casual games, and joining beginner-friendly tournaments.
- Visit Chess.com
Chess Tempo
- Specializes in tactics training and endgame practice, helping beginners develop calculation skills and board vision.
- Offers various difficulty levels to keep you challenged as you improve.
- Visit Chess Tempo
Recommended Chess Boards & Equipment
To fully experience chess, especially if you plan to participate in over-the-board tournaments, it’s important to get familiar with a physical set.
Chess Board
StonKraft 18.2″ x 18.2″ Tournament Chess Vinyl Foldable Set
This professional-grade chess set features solid plastic pieces (with two extra queens) and a washable, tear-resistant vinyl board measuring 18.2″ x 18.2″. The king stands at 3.75″, and the weighted pieces (475 g total, 525 g with extra queens) ensure excellent stability. The board folds easily into a compact pouch, making it ideal for tournaments, school clubs, and home practice.
Digital Chess Clock (Optional for beginners, but recommended if you plan to play timed games)
DGT 3000 Abstract Digital Chess Clock
Helps you get comfortable with typical tournament time controls (e.g., 90 minutes + 30-second increment).
Scoresheets & Notation Books
Keeping track of your moves (known as “notation”) is a key habit for improvement. You can review past games, spot mistakes, and learn from them.
Printable Scoresheets
- Download and print free scoresheets from here. Download Score Sheet File
- Ideal for casual practice or small club tournaments.
Scoresheet Notebooks
- A convenient way to record multiple games and track your progress over time.
- Usually come with enough space for around 50-100 games.
- Amazon Link
