What Is a Chess Combination?
A chess combination is a sequence of forcing moves — often involving a sacrifice — calculated in advance to achieve a concrete goal such as checkmate, decisive material gain, or a winning position.
Combination vs Tactic
A tactic is usually a single idea: a fork, pin, skewer, or discovered attack. A combination links several tactical ideas together into a forced sequence.
- Tactics are short and local
- Combinations are extended and calculated
- Most combinations include a sacrifice
The Core Ingredients of a Combination
- Forcing moves (checks, captures, threats)
- One or more tactical motifs
- A clear target (mate, material, king safety)
- Calculation until the position becomes quiet
Why Players Miss Combinations
- They stop calculating too early
- They don’t recognize the target pattern
- They underestimate sacrifices
- They confuse hope with calculation
This definition page explains the concept. The guide shows you how to spot, calculate, and execute combinations in practice.
⚡ Chess Tactics Guide – Stop Missing Winning Moves (0–1600)
This page is part of the Chess Tactics Guide – Stop Missing Winning Moves (0–1600) — Most games under 1400 are decided by simple tactics. Learn how to spot forks, pins, skewers, discovered attacks, deflections, and mating threats before your opponent does — and stop losing winning positions to missed opportunities.
💥 Chess Combinations Guide
This page is part of the Chess Combinations Guide — Move beyond simple tactics. Learn the art of the combination—forcing sequences, brilliant sacrifices, and mating nets that crush opponents.
Also part of: Exchanging Pieces in Chess Guide