Tips to Improve Results in Blitz and Bullet Chess

Introduction

• Learn from Hikaru Nakamura, one of the world's best blitz players.
• Insights from Nakumara's videos, articles, and personal experiences.

Tip 1: Never Give Up

• Example 1: Garry Kasparov vs. Grandmaster Gear Gif
  • Winning position turned into stalemate.
  • Takeaway: Play until the end and take your chances.
• Example 2: Aronian vs. Krishuk
  • Aronian with 0.3 seconds left on the clock.
  • Importance of playing till the end, opponent might blunder.

Tip 2: Don’t Assume When Pre-Moving

• Example: Position statistics with pre-move traps.
  • Common trap: Pre-moving e6, allowing white to take advantage.
  • Pre-move only when 100% sure it’s safe.

Tip 3: Avoid Mainstream Opening Theory

• Strategies:
  • Use non-mainstream openings (e.g., b3, knight c3 in response to e4 c5).
  • Deviate from mainstream to avoid opponent’s home preparation.

Tip 4: Be a Troublemaker

• Example Game: Nakamura vs. another player
  • Avoid simplifying positions.
  • Create threats and complications, making opponents prone to mistakes.

Tip 5: Recognize When to Take a Break

• Sign: Talking to your mouse indicates it's time to quit.
  • Take breaks when blundering more often or losing on time.

Tip 6: Think in Critical Positions Only

• Suggestion:
  • Spend more time in critical positions where a winning advantage can be calculated.
  • Normal moves should be made quickly.

Tip 7: Simplify When Ahead

• Example: Nakamura vs. Portnick
  • When up material, simplify positions to reduce blunder risk.
  • Easier to manage time and convert advantages.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to subscribe for more chess strategies.
• Additional resources and videos available for further learning.