I am one of the experts at AllExperts.com and since I say my program is suitable for all levels, or maybe because most of the readers are just starting, I get versions of this question all the time. Breaking the news that there really are no Russian secret openings or magic tricks to become better than people playing years longer could be a let down. This is my latest refinement on my basic starting the game question:

Subject: Openings

Question: I would like to learn a few openings that will improve my game. I play a few times a week and know the fundamentals. I think a few good openings would really improve my game. Thanks for the help.

Answer: Hi,

There is really no right answer to this question that works for all people. If you go to a golf pro, the 1st thing he will do is watch your swing. Its the same in chess. One person may like to attack, another to defend. One might want a long term attack with little risk, another may be ready to risk it all by move 25 by sacrificing material. the combinations are as endless and unique as people. This can take years of trial and error, or a few good lessons with a top notch teacher.

Still, chess is a math game and does have basic fundamentals all must master to be a master. classical chess is best for learning. That means e4 or d4 with white and answering e4 with c5 or e5 and d4 with d5 or Nf6.

Then usually black gets to choose his defense.

Mastery of the Open Sicilian (e4 c5 Nf3 some black move and if not d5 or a6 play d4, if d5 ed5 and d4, if 2...a6 Nc3 then d4) and Ruy Lopez (e4 e5 Nf3 Nc6 Bb5) are paramount.

In most other openings you can simply exchange, you need to be on the offense to win at chess, so when in doubt shoot 1st and ask questions later, its just plastic pieces. Most people take years to learn the art of exchanging, in the meantime chop wood of the highest quality when possible.

You should probably play the pawn in front of your king 2 moves, then if he lets you, play the one in front of your queen. This is the oldest and most analyzed of openings. If you run into positions you need help on, finding books at the library or web research shouldn't be too hard.

Then bring out your knights to the middle and bishops out. Soon after castle and you should be able to get to move 10 with a playable game that you can try to win.

Basic advice is at my web page:

http://webspace.webring.com/people/gb/bmcc333/bmcc.html

use the links at my team page from there.

also there is more getting starting advice at the federation's page :

www.uschess.org