Dr. Siegbert Tarrasch was the first to formulate and express the rule that “If one piece is badly placed, your whole game is bad.” The genius of this phrase lies in its simplicity as well as its correctness. Properly applied, it is a significant addition to Stenitz’s theory. On the basis of this single axiom, various types of positions can be studied where the difference in force between the two sides is defined only by the difference in location between corresponding pieces. Applying the Tarrasch Formula in this way develops and builds chess theory by emphasizing the interrelationship between the location of a piece and its real power. Examine any modern text book of chess strategy and you will see its lasting value. The Tarrasch Formula is a fundamental and unifying principle that embraces familiar core concepts such as “good/bad bishop,” “advantage of opposite color bishops in the attack” (and vice versa), and so forth.
Playing steadily to reduce the power of a single enemy piece, to “turn down volume” until its normal voice become only a whisper, can provide enough advantage to win the game. Why? Because it is functionally the same as winning a piece. Every chess player loves to have an extra piece.
Thinking of strategy in this way is a very useful part of your chess planning. It offers a straightforward and effective method for improving your chess decision-making and move selection, as demonstrated in the games collected for this book.
International Grandmaster Sam Palatnik is co-author (with GM Lev Alburt) of three volumes in the best –selling “Comprehensive Chess Course” series. Chess Tactics for the Tournament Player, and The King in Jeopardy.
National Master Mark Ishee is the author of Evans Gambit Games, and has written articles for numerous chess publications including Chess Life, School Mates and Inside Chess
