Correspondence Chess Preparation (Thinking Clearly Over Days, Not Minutes)
Correspondence chess is not fast chess played slowly. It is a different discipline entirely — one that rewards patience, structure, and clear thinking over many sessions.
Why Correspondence Chess Requires a Different Approach
Long time controls change everything:
- you can revisit positions multiple times
- fatigue and impatience become hidden enemies
- small inaccuracies compound over days
- discipline matters more than inspiration
Winning correspondence games is about consistency, not brilliance.
Prepare Your Thinking Routine
The biggest correspondence mistake is “random checking.”
Before analysing, decide:
- when you will think about the game
- how long a session will last
- when you will stop and return later
A repeatable routine prevents sloppy decisions.
Separate First Impressions From Final Decisions
Strong correspondence players rarely play the first move they see.
Use a two-phase approach:
- session 1: explore ideas and candidate moves
- session 2: verify and choose calmly
Time between sessions improves objectivity.
Use Notes to Reduce Mental Load
You don’t need to remember everything.
- write down candidate moves
- note key plans for both sides
- record concerns or unclear lines
Notes prevent circular thinking and re-analysis.
Avoid the Trap of Endless Analysis
More time does not automatically mean better moves.
- set a personal analysis limit
- stop when you find a solid, justified move
- avoid chasing perfection
Many correspondence games are lost by overthinking.
Respect Long-Term Consequences
In correspondence chess, small structural decisions matter greatly.
- pawn weaknesses are harder to fix
- king safety errors linger for weeks
- endgames arrive more often
Choose durable positions over short-term activity.
Control Emotional Momentum
Emotional tilt exists in correspondence too — it just unfolds more slowly.
Watch for:
- forcing moves after a mistake
- avoiding necessary defence
- playing too quickly out of frustration
If emotions rise, pause the game — don’t push through.
A Simple Correspondence Move Checklist
- have I reviewed this position calmly?
- do I understand my opponent’s main ideas?
- is my move safe and sustainable?
- would I still like this move tomorrow?
If unsure, wait — that’s your advantage.
A One-Sentence Correspondence Reminder
“Use time to reduce mistakes, not to chase perfection.”
This mindset wins long games.