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Beginner lesson 11/20
Chess notation
Read and write moves using standard algebraic notation.
Learn this chess concept step by step, then practise it on the interactive ChessRivo board.
Open interactive lessonAbout this lesson
Chess notation gives every move a short, universal name so games can be recorded, shared and analysed.
Key ideas
- Squares are named by file and rank, such as e4 or c6.
- Pieces use letters: K, Q, R, B and N; pawn moves normally use only the destination square.
- x means capture, + means check, # means checkmate and O-O means kingside castling.
Coach tip: Learn notation a little at a time while you play; soon moves like Nf3 and Qxd5 will feel natural.
Test yourself
What does the symbol + mean after a move?
- Check
- Checkmate
- Capture
Show answer
Correct answer: Check
Practise this lesson interactively
Open the ChessRivo Academy board exercise for this exact lesson. Your progress is saved when you are signed in.
Open interactive lessonHow to use this lesson in a real game
Turn the idea into a repeatable decision process.
- Before moving, name the position feature this lesson is about.
- Find one candidate move that follows the lesson idea and one alternative.
- After the game, return to the critical position and compare your choice with the lesson.