Hey Robert, I know this was yesterday’s game, but just a simple observation that I see. Someone can correct me if I’m wrong or missing something, but I would not have pushed that pawn without building up support first. If white takes and you take back, what did you gain? Maybe go Kc6 first, then push d5 next move. Unless you were working on something here I don’t know.

Thanks Chris.

Hi Robert. I’m not ignoring your post, but you are significantly higher graded than me, so I’m not sure of the validity of anything that I would have to offer I’m afraid.

Hi Tom. I actually hired a chess coach some time ago and he has improved me. But now our meetings are erratic and he has me doing three different openings for white and black and I’m not sure how competent I am at any of them except for the Queen’s Gambit. I joined this platform because the idea of just two openings appealed to me as I think things need to be simplified at this point. Also, I like the idea of being part of a community and being able to get feedback etc. And you seem like you’re doing pretty damn good! BTW, I just started my second experiment with Owen’s Defense on chess.com. Where are you geographically Tom? And ANY feedback if greatly appreciated. Thanks Tom. Hope to talk to you more.

Hi Robert, Nice to hear from you. I’m a driving instructor over in England. You mention how you are not sure how competent you are. That self-awareness is critical to outcomes in a learning environment if my experience of pupils trying to convince me how good they are at driving is anything to go by. You sound like you may well be already aware of the Dunning-Kruger effect: the less able have an over-estimated perception of their true ability, seldom knowing what they do not know. The irony is that the more competent have a better sense of the limits of their ability and are actually less likely to boast about their competence. Very much appropriate for us all as we learn chess!

Thanks for sage advice Tom – even though you guys drive on wrong side of road. :). Let’s keep in touch about our chess learning ordeals via this platform. I have just started second experiment with Owen’s Defense. Hope you’re having a good weekend.