Do you struggle to get through the opening phase of your chess games? You’re not alone. For many beginner to intermediate players, the first 10 moves can feel confusing and uncertain. This online course, taught by a successful Grandmaster Mykhaylo Oleksiyenko, is designed to eliminate that uncertainty and guide you through the essential principles of chess openings—what to do, how to do it, and most importantly, why it matters.
This is not just another list of openings to memorize. It’s a structured, thoughtful program that gives you a deep understanding of opening fundamentals, how to develop pieces correctly, and how to punish mistakes made by your opponents.
What You’ll Learn
- The three core rules of opening play and the key details behind them
- Where to place your pawns, pieces, and king for maximum effectiveness
- How to recognize common mistakes and turn them into tactical opportunities
- How to build a full, Grandmaster-approved opening repertoire for both White and Black
- Why strong players make certain moves—and how to apply that logic in your own games
Course Structure
The course is divided into four practical and progressive sections:
Section 1:
You’ll learn the three most important rules of the opening. The course explains good and bad piece placements, what to do with your pawns, and how to manage your king’s safety—crucial concepts for success in any game.
Section 2:
Through four famous games, you’ll see what happens when players neglect the first two opening rules. These examples are broken down with detailed explanations so you can learn to both avoid and exploit these common errors.
Section 3:
This section focuses on castling—when, why, and how failing to do so can cost you the game. You'll analyze another four high-level games and learn how to punish opponents who delay or forget to safeguard their king.
Section 4:
The Grandmaster shares his curated opening repertoire, including complete setups for White and Black. You’ll receive PGN files, strategic explanations, and homework designed to help you internalize and apply the principles you've learned.
Why This Course Works
Unlike many opening tutorials that emphasize rote memorization, this course is based on conceptual understanding. You won’t just know what to play—you’ll know why it works. The material is ideal for:- Beginners who want to start chess on solid footing
- Hobby players who feel unsure about what to do early in the game
- Chess enthusiasts who want insights into how Grandmasters approach the opening phase
Extra Materials
- Downloadable PGN files with detailed annotations
- Homework assignments and solutions to reinforce learning
- Complete repertoires for both sides, built on sound principles, not gimmicks
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to stop guessing in the opening and start playing with clarity and purpose, this course offers everything you need. You’ll build a strong foundation, learn from real examples, and take away a repertoire you can use in every game.