Recommended Books
By Skill Level
Beginner (Under 1200)
| Book | Author | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Silman's Complete Endgame Course | Jeremy Silman | Rating-based progression, excellent for beginners |
Intermediate (1200-1800)
| Book | Author | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 100 Endgames You Must Know | Jesus de la Villa | Practical, essential positions |
| Endgame Strategy | Mikhail Shereshevsky | Theme-based, teaches strategic thinking |
Advanced (1800+)
| Book | Author | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dvoretsky's Endgame Manual | Mark Dvoretsky | Comprehensive, master-level |
| Fundamental Chess Endings | Müller & Lamprecht | Encyclopedia, excellent reference |
Specialized
| Book | Author | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| Rook Endings | Levenfish & Smyslov | Definitive rook endgame reference |
| Secrets of Pawn Endings | Müller & Lamprecht | Deep pawn endgame coverage |
How to Choose
- Start with Silman if you're under 1600
- Add de la Villa when you reach 1600
- Use Dvoretsky as a reference when you reach 2000
- Specialize with topical books as needed
Online Resources
- Lichess Practice — Free endgame drills
- Chessable — Spaced repetition courses
- Syzygy Tablebases — Perfect play lookup