Strategy · Lesson 81 of 92
The Center Rules
Why do all classical openings fight for e4, d4, e5, d5?
Choose the right answer
- Tradition only
- Pieces in the center control the most squares and reach both wings
- The center squares score points
- Pawns move faster there
Show the answer
Pieces in the center control the most squares and reach both wings
A knight in the center controls 8 squares; in the corner, just 2. Central control = mobility = power.
The complete guide
This drill is one step. The full write-up — every rule, every pattern, every common mistake — is in the complete guide.
Practise this on a live board
This lesson is one of 92 in the Grandmaster Academy — every one playable, with the pieces moving under your hand.
♔ Practise this lesson free