Basic Checkmating Techniques
Master queen, rook, two-rook, and queen-and-rook mates before proving them at speed in Mate Rush.
Free starter course
Level 1 — Queen Mate — Shrink the Box
Use the queen to take away ranks and files, then bring your king in to finish safely.
Level 2 — Queen Mate — The Supported Finish
With the king boxed on the edge, coordinate your king and queen for the final mate.
Level 3 — Rook Mate — Build the Barrier
Cut the king off with the rook, walk your king forward, and force the defender onto the edge.
Level 4 — Rook Mate — The Opposition Finish
Use king opposition to hold the defender on the edge, then check along the final rank.
Level 5 — Two Rooks — The Ladder Mate
Alternate the rooks to close one rank at a time until the king has nowhere left to run.
Level 6 — Queen and Rook — The Fast Ladder
Use the queen and rook as a protected ladder to drive the king straight to the edge.
Level 7 — Course Practice
Face every course position without guidance. Reveal a hint only when you need one.