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The Dictionary of Chess Problems: Composition Themes & Terms
Chess Composition is the art of creating beautiful positions (Problems or Studies) that may not happen in a real game but demonstrate the infinite depth of chess logic. This glossary explains the unique language used by puzzle composers and solvers.
1. Types of Composition
Direct Mate (#2, #3) Standard
White to move and checkmate Black in a specified number of moves (e.g., "Mate in 2") against any defense. This is the most common type of puzzle.
Endgame Study Art
A composed position that looks like a realistic endgame (usually "White to play and Win" or "Draw"). The solution often involves a single, unique, and beautiful path.
"The Saavedra Position" is a famous study showing how a Pawn promotes to a Rook to win.
Helpmate (h#) Co-op
Black moves first. Black and White work together to checkmate the Black King in a specific number of moves.
Selfmate (s#) Suicide
White moves first and forces Black (against Black's will) to checkmate the White King.
2. Famous Composition Themes
Novotny Interference
A piece is sacrificed on a square where it blocks two different enemy pieces (usually a Rook and a Bishop) from moving along their lines. Whichever piece captures it blocks the other.
Plachutta Interference
Similar to a Novotny, but involves sacrificing a piece where two pieces of the same type (e.g., two Rooks) intersect. Capturing causes them to get in each other's way.
Excelsior Pawn
A problem where a Pawn starts on its starting square (2nd rank) and marches all the way to the 8th rank to promote and deliver mate during the solution.
Allumwandlung Promotion
German for "All Promotions." A problem where the solution involves promoting a pawn to all four possible pieces (Queen, Rook, Bishop, and Knight) in different variations.
Grimshaw Interference
Two Black pieces (usually Rook and Bishop) arrive on a specific square. By arriving there, they block each other's lines of defense.
3. Solver's Jargon
Cook Error
A flaw in a chess problem. A problem is "cooked" if there is a second, unintended solution (e.g., a different first move also mates), or if the intended solution fails.
Dual Flaw
When White has more than one correct move at any stage of the solution (other than the very first move). High-quality problems should have no duals; the path must be unique.
Miniature Size
A chess problem that uses 7 or fewer pieces in total on the board. Known for elegance and simplicity.
Retrograde Analysis Logic
"Sherlock Holmes" chess. You are given a position and asked to deduce what happened in the past. (e.g., "What was the last move?" or "Can Black castle?").