OTB Chess Tournament Etiquette – What’s Normal and What to Avoid

Most tournament etiquette is simple: be calm, be respectful, and don’t distract. If you’re used to online chess, the biggest difference is that your opponent shares the same physical space.

Pillar hub: Your First Chess Tournament – OTB Guide

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✅ Before the Game

• Arrive early enough to find your board and settle.
• Turn your phone fully off or follow the event rules strictly.
• A handshake is common (not always mandatory) — follow your opponent’s lead.
• Confirm colour/board orientation if unsure (White pieces on the right-hand corner).

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🤫 During the Game

• Don’t talk during play (except for essential rule clarifications).
• Don’t give advice or comment on nearby games.
• Avoid hovering over other boards — it feels intrusive.
• Make moves clearly, then press the clock (same hand is a common practice).

If the clock still worries you: How to Use a Chess Clock (No Stress)

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🖐 Touch-Move in Plain English

In most OTB events, if you deliberately touch one of your own pieces, you are expected to move it (if it has a legal move).

• If you need to adjust a piece, say “I adjust” (or similar) first.
• Don’t “test-touch” pieces while thinking.

Rules basics are here: OTB Tournament Rules Basics

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🤝 After the Game

• It’s normal to shake hands (again, not always required).
• You can discuss the game after, but keep voices low and move away from boards.
• If there’s a dispute, call an arbiter calmly — don’t argue aggressively.

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⚠ Common Etiquette Mistakes

• Talking or reacting loudly to moves
• Slamming pieces or the clock
• Standing too close to the opponent
• Constantly leaving/returning in a distracting way

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🔗 Continue in the Tournament Cluster

• How to Use a Chess Clock
• How to Write Moves (Scoresheet)
• Nerves & Focus
• What to Bring
• Rules Basics

👉 Back to First Tournament Hub

👉 Back to Main Topics Index