Hi Everyone,

Just an update.

I have reached the 1200+ rating on Rapid in chess.com again. I’ve been here a few times in the past. I teeter just shy of 1300 and then eventually, I sink back down to 900, then I make it back to 1000, then 1100.

I wish I could consistently stay at 1200. I am coolguydork at chess.com.

From a self evaluation, among my weaknesses is the propensity to knee-jerk move when my Queen is threatened or I am threatened with a checkmate. I often realize a better move is present after I’ve already made a move. I miss mates and key tactics this way.

The best way I can articulate what’s contributed to my progress is focusing on development. I count how many of my opponent’s pieces are in play and I always try to at least match. Otherwise, if I have one more piece out sooner, I usually get an advantage.

After that, I try to exploit my opponent’s weakness. And if I see no weaknesses, I look for an opportunity to move my pieces farther into enemy territory without compromising too much.

I tried playing 15|10, but I’m finding often people don’t even finish their games. They just resign or abandon.

P