Getting started
Taking your first step: Our assessment
We believe strongly in developing a strong foundation for the student from the first class. Before any coaching begins, we run a structured diagnostic woven into the introductory lesson to get a clear picture of the student's strengths and weaknesses. This test was rigorously developed and curated as a long-term collaboration between Daniel and Samuel and has been implemented successfully. Below are the key areas being evaluated.
Tactical
- Initiative (Forcing moves, checks, threats)
- Calculation (Calculate + Evaluate)
- Importance of tempo (important in sharp positions, less in static)
Planning
- 3 B's (Bases, Breaks, Better)
- Prophylaxis
- Imbalances
Positional
- Piece activity
- Pawn structure
- Space
Psychology
- Active Defense
- Go for it mindset
- Clarity
Pattern Recognition
Timed puzzles across mixed themes — forks, pins, mating nets. Measures instant recognition vs. tactical blindness under pressure.
Position Evaluation
Static positions, no moving pieces. Who's better and why? Identify weak squares, pawn structure, the worst piece, best plans for both sides.
Opponent Awareness
What does your opponent want? How do you stop it? Tests prophylactic thinking — one of the most commonly skipped skills at every level.
Deep Problem Solving
Harder puzzles requiring a move plus a full explanation. Wrong answers are as informative as right ones — the reasoning reveals specific blind spots.