- Check the advance entry list so you know what to expect and whom you may play.
- Repeatedly play over games from previous tournaments to learn from mista
kes.
- Understand where you are now and set a realistic goal.
- Avoid overhauling your entire opening repertoire right before the tournament.
- Instead of preparing openings for specific opponents, improve your understanding in one or two variations.
- Be prepared for psychological tricks intended to distract you. For example, resist the temptation to move too fast.
- Exercise regularly. Be fit both physically and mentally.
- Rest your mind for a day or two. Do not cram chess!
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Have fun!
Thursday, April 17
Preparing for a Big Tournament
Budding young writer NM Jonathan Hilton from Ohio offers his detailed advice on how to prepare for a major chess tournament in his preview of this weekend's National High School Championship in Atlanta. With the CalChess Scholastics just a month away, I highly recommend this article on Chess Life Online to both scholastic players and their parents. Hilton, who is in 11th grade and rated 2248, addresses the following topics:
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