Here's a chapter devoted to some very simple tasks. For instance one-movers – what could be easier?
The first position requires you to find the one move that leads to mate in the above position. Time yourself: how long does it take? If you move pieces the diagram will play a countermove.
Second diagram: normally, chess problems should not have more than one solution. The above position makes a point of creating as many alternative solutions as possible. Try and count the exact number of mating moves that White can make. Solution below.
The first position is arguably the easiest chess problem ever composed. If you cannot solve it, then maybe chess is not your game. Try entering moves. The diagram will defend.
The second position by the great tongue in cheek problemist Dr Karl Fabel. Here he asks us to find the only move that does not lead to immediate mate. Hopefully you see it instantly.
This is a diagram that was published by another humorous composer. The author, T. R. Dawson, attached the following story to it:
In this position Black decided to resign. White, who was in check, said that his opponent shouldn't give up so quickly. "But I am bound to lose, there is nothing I can do – or for that matter you," said Black. But White insisted: "I'll bet you $100 that I can lose this game!" So the two made the bet and White actually lost. How did he do that?
No, it's nothing like resigning, losing on time, being disqualified, etc. White wagered he would lose, and he lost fair and square. The solution must cause you to smile, otherwise you haven't got it.
Here are the solutions to all the above problems:
- 1.f4#! is the only move that mates. Did you find it?
- If you counted carefully you will have found that there are 47 different mating moves.
- Both sides have only one legal move each time it is their turn to play. So the problem solves itself: 1.d4 b5 2.d5 b4 3.axb4 a3 4.b5 a2 5.b6 a1Q 6.b7#. You can't make 'em easier.
- The only way not to mate is to play 1.Rc6+, unpinning the bRb7 and allowing the defence 1...Rxh7. You need a fair amount of altruism to find that move.
- The solution: White, of course, lost the bet, not the game! (Ducking and running for cover).