How to choose an opening repertoire

My dear chess friends!

When choosing an opening repertoire, it must meet at least two criteria:

1) The opening should be relevant. It should not be a trap, but a rather strong opening, which is also used by grandmasters today. For example, Grunfeld Defense for black. Quite a lot of theory is developed in it, but there are still ideas that can be created and developed.

2) The opening should suit your style. First, of course, you need to determine the style of the play. For example, for those who understand the position well and can play positionally, I recommend more closed openings. For example, do the first move 1. d4 and get Queen's Gambit, or for instance, King's Indian or Nimzo-Indian.

As for me, I am a more tactical and calculating chess player. I prefer sharp and semi-open positions, which, for example, can be found in Open Sicilian Defense. 

In general, to find a good opening, it is best to do so:

• Determine your style and which positions you like best

• Find the opening where positions of this type are found most often (if you can't do it yourself, contact your coach)

• See how often this opening is used in the games of grandmasters nowadays (how relevant it is)

• Analyze several games of grandmasters and masters in this opening and try to understand the plans

If after these steps you like this opening, start exploring specific options.

I hope you found this advice useful!

Kind regards,

FM Viktor Neustroev