Chessworld.net founded in 2000 is an online chess site.
If you would like to play relaxed, friendly online chess, then...
or

Relevant Chess Courses with discount code links: Chess Courses

Winning Conversion Techniques in Chess Endgames

Having an advantage is not enough—you must know how to convert it. In endgames, a small lead can slip away without accurate technique. This page outlines the most important methods to reliably turn your edge into a full point.

1. Activate Your King

The active king often makes the difference—bring it forward to dominate key squares.

2. Simplify When Ahead

Trade pieces, not pawns. Keep winning chances while reducing counterplay.
Simplify into a known winning position (e.g., Lucena, winning king and pawn).

3. Use Triangulation and Opposition

Gain the opposition in king and pawn endings to force the enemy king back.
Use triangulation to waste a move and put your opponent in zugzwang.

4. Cut Off the King

In rook endings, use your rook to keep the enemy king away from the action.
A cut-off king is often helpless to stop passed pawns or repeated checks.

5. Push Passed Pawns with Care

Support them with pieces or king first—don’t rush and overextend.
Don’t push too far if it makes your pawn a target.

6. Avoid Time Pressure and Premature Trades

Know the critical ideas before you trade into an endgame—check if it's truly winning.
Don’t simplify unless you’re confident in the resulting position.

Classic Examples

Capablanca: Step-by-step conversions using active king and pawn breaks.
Karpov: Slow strangulation combined with precise technique and simplification.
Carlsen: Uses endgame grind and relentless improvement to convert slight edges.