Technical Things
Question:
Can I save the video lessons?
Unfortunately, we don't have a video download version for now, but we're working on this.
In my lessons, I suggest you have a notebook and write down the most important ideas of the lesson so you'll not need to see the video lesson again.
Please also notice that the PGN and PDF files are downloadable, so you can save them to your computer.
Question:
How can I open PDF files?
You can view the PDF files online on our website. Additionally, you can download them to your device. To open PDF files on your device, you need to install a PDF reader. You can search on Google for the term "PDF reader" or ask ChatGPT for recommendations. There are plenty of options available, and you can download one for free from the internet that is suitable for your device.
Question:
How can I open PGN files?
Portable Game Notation (PGN) files contain chess games and analysis. To open them, you need a PGN viewer. You can search on Google for the term "PGN viewer" or ask ChatGPT for recommendations. There are plenty of options available, and you can download one for free from the internet that is suitable for your device.
Question:
Which devices can I use to study your courses?
You can see the lessons from your desktop, tablet, or your mobile. The only things that you need are a browser, like Chrome, and to log in to the website with your personal password.
Question:
How can I join your mailing list?
Join our mailing list by becoming a VIP member and enjoy numerous benefits, including free lessons. Registration is absolutely free!
Question:
What happens if I unsubscribe from the mailing list?
You can unsubscribe from our mailing list at any time; we respect your choice and won't keep you here against your will. Logically, if you choose to unsubscribe, it indicates that you're no longer interested in being a part of our website. Therefore, as per our website policy, your account will be deleted.
Question:
What are the requirements for your courses?
A significant benefit is the ability to access lessons online, presented in MP4 format through your browser. The PGN files are downloadable, and you can view them using any PGN viewer, such as ChessBase Light (available as a free download). Tests are available in PDF format, allowing you to study them online. I recommend keeping a personal, simple notebook to jot down essential information from the lessons.
Question:
I encountered a 404 error page; what should I do?
Firstly, I designed the 404 error page featuring a lovely blue girl; do you like it? You can view this page by clicking here.
Encountering a non-working link on the internet is a common occurrence and could happen for various reasons, such as a glitch, a temporary error, or some other issue. The page I designed can assist you in navigating back to the home page.
https://www.rules-chess-strategies.com/en/?option=com_content&view=article&id=1
Before Purchase
Question:
How long does it take to complete your course?
Each training program, such as 'Rookie-1000' or 'Beginner 1100,' follows a yearly chess club curriculum. This mirrors the training conducted within a chess club during the school year, with approximately 30-40 lessons per year, typically one lesson per week.
While you have the flexibility to study at your own pace based on your available time, I recommend thoroughly understanding one idea before moving on to the next. If you consistently dedicate 1 hour per week, you can expect to complete a lesson in 6-8 months.
Similarly, other chess courses, such as openings or individual lessons, have shorter durations compared to the training programs, but they are still comprehensive in content.
Question:
Can I see a sample of your work?
Certainly! Over the last a decade and half (2010-2024), I have been creating video lessons on YouTube. Starting from 2020, the videos are exclusively in English.
You can register for free on the website and you'll be able to see a lot of free videos.
Additionally, you have the opportunity to study the free course called 'Newbie-500.' This course covers essential chess piece movements and other key aspects of chess. Whether you are familiar with the moves or not, and based on your liking for the lessons, as well as the design and organization, I can assure you that you'll appreciate the training programs we offer.
Please note that there is another free course, exclusively available to individuals with an account on the website, called 'Learn, Play, Win.'
Register Here
https://www.rules-chess-strategies.com/en/registration-en/user/form
Question:
Your chess courses are expensive.
No, not at all! A typical monthly fee for a chess club is 20€, which includes around 4 lessons amounting to approximately 4 hours. This averages to about 5€ per lesson, given the specific teaching system and exercises provided by the club.
Contrastingly, my courses are priced at 10€ per hour. Therefore, a 4-hour course would be 40€. In addition to theoretical lessons, you'll receive practical exercises to reinforce the concepts learned in the video lessons. It's worth noting that during the initial days of course publication, there's a 50% discount available, allowing you to enroll in a 4-hour course for just 20€, equating to 5€ per hour.
Now, let's be honest. When you attend an in-person lesson, does the instructor speak continuously? No. There are pauses, requests to write notes, and other interruptions. On the other hand, my video lessons allow you to maintain 100% focus as I consistently provide valuable information. If I ask you to pause or jot something down, you have the flexibility to do so. Additionally, the benefit of replaying the lesson is invaluable – a luxury not afforded in live lessons.
Rest assured, one hour of my video lessons is equivalent to 2 hours of live instruction. In conclusion, the chess courses are not expensive; quite the opposite. They hold the potential to be priced at double their current rate.
Question:
Have you checked the lines with a computer engine?
Certainly! I meticulously examine all variations and lines using computer engines such as Rybka, Houdini, etc., to ensure accurate and objective results for you.
Question:
Are your courses available in languages other than English?
Yes, the lessons are already available in Greek, and I plan to translate them into additional languages. If you would like to contribute to the translations, you are welcome to send me your CV and a summary of your work experience.
Question:
Do you use anti-piracy protection?
Yes, my courses are equipped with anti-piracy measures to prevent illegal distribution. This is essential to maintain the effectiveness of the lessons. Without such protection, the knowledge would quickly spread among all chess players, diminishing the unique value of the courses.
Implementing anti-piracy protection not only safeguards the integrity of the courses but also ensures that paying students receive the exclusivity they deserve. It's important to me that my honest students and the courses themselves are protected, and sharing the presented ideas without permission is not allowed.
Question:
Do you offer a money-back guarantee?
We have specific rules regarding this matter following Greek and European Union laws. Due to the nature of digital content, we do not offer a money-back guarantee since you gain immediate access upon purchase. We encourage you to review our Terms of Use (https://www.rules-chess-strategies.com/en/terms-conditions-en) for Transactions and Withdrawal Rights (https://www.rules-chess-strategies.com/en/withdrawal-rights-en) documents for more details.
Additionally, you can watch numerous YouTube videos and free lessons on the website to get acquainted with my teaching style. If you enjoy my free lessons, you will undoubtedly appreciate the premium courses.
Question:
I am a beginner (or my son/daughter is). Can I study your course?
Certainly! I've crafted the ideal starting program for beginners, known as the Beginner's Pack. This comprehensive bundle covers the first four yearly programs, providing a solid foundation and understanding of chess.
To facilitate your enrollment, I've created a convenient bundle for you. Check it out here.
Question:
How can I start learning?
If you don't have an official or online chess rating, I recommend following the Kesaris Training Program. This program is divided into school years, and each year is designed to help you gain at least 100 ELO rating points. The program is structured to suit various skill levels.
Additionally, there are chess courses covering specific subjects. I suggest studying them in the order I've created them. For example, start with a course on tactics, followed by a course on attack, then positional play, and finally, a course on planning. Please note that it took me many years to develop this structured curriculum, even before I started recording the lessons!
Question:
Can I see a full price list?
The pricing is categorized on separate pages, primarily under the 'School' and 'Lessons' sections. However, we have a complete list of all available lessons. Check it out here.
https://www.rules-chess-strategies.com/en/learn?view=courses
Question:
I am not a native English speaker. Will I be able to understand your courses?
No problem! English is not my first language either, so I avoid using overly complicated language. I believe you will be able to understand everything clearly. The courses include numerous chess examples and clear explanations to ensure your understanding.
Payment
Question:
Do you offer discounts for your courses?
Yes, we offer both permanent and occasional discounts. Additionally, special discounts are provided from time to time, and I recommend joining our mailing list to stay informed. You can easily subscribe by creating a free account on the website here.
Typically, all brand-new courses have a 50% discount during their initial release. After the first few days, the prices return to normal, so it's essential to stay informed. To assist you in enrolling in all lessons, we have a dedicated category with discounts, which you can explore here.
https://www.rules-chess-strategies.com/en/registration-en/user/form
Question:
How to use a discount coupon?
1. Click the green 'Add to Cart' button.
2. Go to the top menu named 'Basket.'
3. Click 'Checkout.'
4. On the new page, you'll find a line labeled 'Enter your coupon.' Add your coupon there and click 'Add.'
5. The new price will appear on the screen, and you can then finalize your order.
Question:
What type of payment methods are accepted?
We gladly accept payments through major credit cards, including MasterCard, Visa, and American Express. Additionally, we offer the convenience of PayPal as a secure payment option.
Question:
Is there any advantage for me to purchase all of your courses in one go?
Certainly! We have curated a mega bundle for you, encompassing nearly all our courses, and you can enroll in it at a substantial discount. Check it out here:
https://www.rules-chess-strategies.com/en/products-on-sale-en/product/55-ultimate-chess-bundle
Question:
In which currencies can I pay?
You can view and pay in euros (EUR) and United States dollars (USD).
Question:
Is it safe to purchase your products online?
Making online purchases is a safe process that has become increasingly secure, especially following the COVID-19 quarantine period, during which e-commerce gained popularity.
Our website is equipped with an active SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) to encrypt all data transmissions, ensuring the protection of our students' information.
Furthermore, advancements in artificial intelligence and chat technology, such as ChatGPT, have contributed to enhancing security measures.
We utilize globally recognized banks and services such as PayPal, Mastercard, Visa, etc. These reputable companies handle millions of transactions daily, ensuring the security of our financial transactions.
Lastly, our website is hosted on one of the world's best servers, supported by additional security tools that, for confidentiality reasons, cannot be disclosed here.
Question:
Can someone else (a friend, relative, etc.) make a payment on my behalf?
Yes, someone else can make a purchase on your behalf. For instance, in certain countries, creating a new PayPal account may be challenging due to local regulations and restrictions. If you encounter a similar issue, please register on the website and then send me an email for further assistance.
Question:
I paid for the course but haven't received it.
Please be aware that our e-shop is active and accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year! Consequently, after your purchase, you should be able to access your lessons instantly.
Upon completing the payment, you will receive an email containing the link to all of your available lessons; you can find it here.
In the rare event that you encounter any issues, you can visit your profile by clicking here. Under the 'Actions' tab, you can contact us about your order by clicking on 'Contact Us about Your Order.'
After Payment
Question:
How can I find the lessons?
Once you've made the payment, the website will automatically grant you access to the lessons and the forum page in the background. To maintain organizational clarity, all your active lessons are consolidated in one place. You can find them in 'My Chess Progress' by clicking here.
Question:
The 'X' lesson is not working. What should I do?
Please mention the name of the training program and the specific lesson. Afterward, send us an email so our team can address and correct the issue promptly.
Personal Trainer
Question:
Do you offer lessons in person, online, or both?
Physical Presence Lessons:
Yes, I can provide lessons with physical presence as long as you are in close proximity to me. The cost is €20 + VAT.
Online Lessons:
Yes, I can provide online lessons. The cost is €20 + VAT.
Group Lessons for Clubs or Schools:
Instead of individual coaching, I prefer conducting group lessons for clubs or schools. The recommended curriculum is the chess series 'The Steps method' from 1 to 6. I have designed, adapted, and enriched each lesson separately (from all the books) so that it can be delivered either in group training or individually.
Question:
What are your lessons like?
Private lessons have a duration of 1 hour. At the start of each session, you will grasp the key concepts of the topic, which you can note down in your notebook. We will then delve into illustrative examples related to the topic. Throughout the lesson, I will pose questions to ensure your understanding. By the end of the lesson, you will have a comprehensive grasp of the topic, empowering you to apply the concepts to your own games confidently.
Question:
Can you analyze one of my games?
I can analyze one of your games during our lesson. Typically, we allocate the initial hour of the training program (series of classes) to thoroughly analyze your games.
Question:
How much do the lessons cost?
The cost for each lesson is 20€ + VAT. It's important to note that I don't offer individual lessons separately. Lessons are bundled, for instance, in packages of 4 per month. Additionally, please be aware that payment for the entire bundle is required in advance to initiate the lessons.
Question:
Your private lessons are expensive.
In reality, it's not about my lessons being expensive; it's about the perceived value they bring. Let's draw a parallel to high-end clothing. You wouldn't dismiss the Armani suit as "expensive" without acknowledging the craftsmanship, quality, and unique features that justify the price, am I right?
Similarly, my private lessons are an important investment in your chess improvement. They're meticulously crafted to provide you with tailored knowledge, strategic insights, and a learning experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
While there are numerous free lessons available online, as a renowned YouTuber, I know how to share free content. However, true chess improvement requires a deeper commitment. You can't advance your skills solely through free resources. It's a path that often leads to a dead end.
Consider this: you're at a crossroads in your chess journey. Do you choose the red pill, embracing the commitment to genuine improvement, or the blue pill, resigning to the repetitive cycle of hoping for a breakthrough while pressing the backspace on your chess program? The next big novelty didn't arrive yesterday; it hasn't come today, and it won't magically appear tomorrow.
The power to change your chess trajectory lies in your hands. Are you ready to take the leap and transform your game, or will you continue down the familiar path, hoping for change without making the necessary commitment?
Question:
How can I pay you?
The process is straightforward. To initiate, I'll need to confirm your acceptance as a student. This step is crucial as it ensures that I have the availability to be your chess trainer.
Once accepted, the next stage involves agreeing on the chess bundle that best suits your needs and determining the corresponding price.
For your convenience, our website supports a wide range of payment methods. To complete your enrollment, you can securely make your payment through our online transfer system.
Question:
Can I play with you?
In general, I don't engage in random games, and I definitely won't play with random time controls. Occasionally, I play online blitz games with a time control of 3+0 or 3+1. I also participate in chess tournaments over the board. However, I'm not interested in playing random games with you; I apologize for any inconvenience.
Question:
Can you prepare me for an upcoming tournament/school challenge?
No, I'm not interested in this. I don't like to have students who remember to read only 1 day before the game. Chess is a marathon, and you need time to improve. Definitely, I can help you build a strong and sound opening repertoire based on understanding. For chess novelties, you're welcome to use the backspace on your computer...
Question:
Can we go out for a coffee to show you my game?
I'm sorry, this is not an option. I'm a professional trainer, and if you'd like to improve at chess, then you need to follow a training “frame”.
Question:
Can you evaluate me?
The most objective way is the FIDE official rating. If you haven't played in official tournaments, you can try online ratings on chess platforms like Lichess or Chess.com. Generally, online ratings are higher by 200 to 400 points.
Last but not least, you can gauge your rating by how many moves ahead you can see. For example, if you can see 1 move ahead, then your rating is around 1000. If you can anticipate your opponent's move as well, then you are at 1100. Can you calculate two moves ahead? If yes, then you are a 1200 player.
'Can a 1900 player calculate 9 moves ahead??' Yes. We can.
Question:
Can you find my chess mistakes?
Of course. The best way to do that is by studying your games. This is something that your friends, who have approximately the same level as you, cannot do. It's also impossible to spot your mistakes using chess programs. A chess program can suggest the best move in the position, but it will not explain the systematic approach behind it or how to find the right moves.
It's also important to note that people make mistakes according to their chess strength. With 20 years of teaching experience and extensive reading of chess books, I've identified typical errors that players make based on their ELO. You can explore these typical mistakes mentioned during the chess training programs by clicking here.
Question:
Can I have another trainer and not you?
Absolutely! We believe in freedom of choice, and when you invest in your chess education, you have the liberty to choose any trainer from around the world. There are extensive lists available, featuring a wide range of experienced and skilled trainers.
Alternatively, if you'd prefer some specific recommendations, we can suggest individuals who are not only exceptionally strong in chess but also known for their effective teaching methods and positive approach. These trainers are dedicated to helping you enhance your chess skills.
For more details or personalized suggestions, please log in to our website and scroll to the bottom of the page. We're here to assist you on your chess journey and ensure you have the best possible learning experience.
General Issues
Question:
Can I contact you?
On www.rules-chess-strategies.com, we encourage you to contact us. If your question isn't in the FAQ (frequently asked questions), please feel free to send us an email. A member of my team or I will get back to you within the next 24 hours.
Question:
Can I speak to you on the phone?
I'm sorry, but we cannot offer phone support. If you have any queries related to chess or how to improve, you can check the FAQ or send us an email.
Question:
What is ELO?
Please check out the free training course “Newbie-500”. This question is already answered in the extra lessons. You can find the course by clicking here.
Question:
Can a mobile or computer “read” you?
Yes, chess programs can adapt to your style as they use artificial intelligence. However, you should aim to become better by studying the chess training program, which you can find by clicking here.
Question:
Where can I play chess online?
Please check out the free training course “Newbie-500”. I explain there how to create a new free account on LiChess.
Question:
I wrote a comment on the YouTube channel, but it wasn't published immediately. Why?
All comments undergo moderation to ensure a positive and constructive discussion. This step is taken to prevent irrelevant or inappropriate content. While accusations of censorship have been made in the past, the goal is to maintain a respectful and focused environment. Political, football, and other unrelated comments are discouraged, and individuals are encouraged to share such opinions on their personal social media accounts.
Feel free to share your thoughts on what you enjoyed in the video lesson, ask questions specifying the minute of interest, or provide constructive feedback for improvement. Your engagement is valued!
Question:
Why do you have lessons in Greek on YouTube?
I initiated my YouTube channel by creating content in Greek, establishing myself as the most recognized chess personality in my country. While my Greek videos remain popular, I aspire to shift my focus towards more diverse content in the future.
Since 2020, I have primarily been conducting lessons in English on my YouTube channel. Occasional Greek videos are shared, usually to introduce and promote new training courses. I appreciate your understanding of this strategic approach.
Question:
Do you have a schedule for your Twitch Channel?
Live broadcasts on Twitch are undeniably exciting and hold great significance. While I genuinely enjoy them, I'm currently focusing on consistently creating and enhancing the chess training programs on my website. I'll certainly strive to incorporate Twitch broadcasts back into my weekly schedule when feasible. Your understanding and support are highly appreciated.
Question:
Do you have any ideas or suggestions?
We're always excited to hear fresh ideas from our community! If you have a suggestion, please articulate it clearly, and don't hesitate to share it with us. Log in to the website and reach out to us using the contact option located at the bottom right of the page. Your input is valuable, and we appreciate your contributions!
Question:
Have suggestions to enhance the website?
We believe there's always room for improvement. Whether you've identified a bug, encountered a problem, or simply have ideas on how we can make the website better, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to us with your suggestions. While we can't guarantee implementation, if your idea is well-formulated, we'll strive to explore its practical implementation.
Question:
Can I be your friend on chess.com, Lichess, Facebook, etc.?
No, I used to have millions of online friends across various platforms. However, none of them remembered me on my birthday or initiated conversations. Consequently, I deleted most of them. I also advise against sharing unnecessary personal information online due to security concerns. Enjoy your meals, cherish the company of those around you, live in the moment, and remember that the best hard drive is the one inside your head, bringing you happiness. There's little point in storing countless pictures on your mobile; close your phone, engage your senses, and truly live!