Beginner Puzzles
Master these fundamental positions before moving on. Each puzzle tests a critical endgame skill.
King + Queen Checkmates
Puzzle 1: Back Rank Mate
Deliver Checkmate
White to move. Find the checkmate in one!
Your turn - find the best move!Move 1 of 1
Puzzle 2: Box Method Setup
Restrict the King
Start the box method - cut off the king's escape.
Your turn - find the best move!Move 1 of 2
King + Rook Checkmates
Puzzle 3: Rook Mate
Checkmate in One
White to move and checkmate.
Your turn - find the best move!Move 1 of 1
Puzzle 4: Pushing the King
Drive the King Back
Use your rook to push the enemy king to the edge.
Your turn - find the best move!Move 1 of 2
King + Pawn Endings
Puzzle 5: Opposition Win
Win with Opposition
White to move. Use opposition to promote the pawn.
Your turn - find the best move!Move 1 of 2
Puzzle 6: Key Square
Seize the Key Square
White to move. Reach a key square to guarantee promotion.
Your turn - find the best move!Move 1 of 2
Quick Mates
Puzzle 7: Two Rooks Mate
Ladder Mate
Finish the ladder checkmate!
Your turn - find the best move!Move 1 of 1
Puzzle 8: Queen + King Teamwork
Cornered King
Force checkmate in the corner.
Your turn - find the best move!Move 1 of 2
Progress Tracker
| Puzzle | Topic | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Queen Back Rank | ☐ |
| 2 | Box Method | ☐ |
| 3 | Rook Mate | ☐ |
| 4 | Pushing King | ☐ |
| 5 | Opposition | ☐ |
| 6 | Key Squares | ☐ |
| 7 | Ladder Mate | ☐ |
| 8 | Q+K Mate | ☐ |
Completed all puzzles? Move on to Intermediate Puzzles!