How To Find A Chess Coach [2024 Guide]

“I absolutely believe that people, unless coached, never reach their maximum potential.” – Bob Nardelli

Embarking on the chess journey alone can sometimes feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. There's no doubt that having a skilled chess coach can be transformative. However, separating genuine chess coaches from mere pretenders is a challenge in itself.

Picture this: you discover a mentor who has walked the path you're on, achieved the milestones you've set your eyes on, and carries the roadmap to elevate your game. They possess the blueprint to help you scale heights, having already uplifted numerous others. This coach trains, guides, and consistently points out areas of improvement, ensuring that every session propels you forward. They stand by your side, addressing your unique challenges and capitalizing on your strengths.

Envision the elation you feel as your online ranking steadily climbs, mirroring your growth. The day isn't far when you'd bask in the glory of hitting your chess objectives.

Seems like a fantasy?

It's not. This vision is attainable, provided you're committed to your chess journey.

The key lies in identifying the right chess coach.

In this article, I’ll arm you with insights and criteria to find your ideal chess coach. While comprehensive, this guide is a must-read for anyone earnest about advancing in chess.

So, dive in with confidence, and let's elevate your chess game together!

1. Playing Strength ≠ Coaching Strength

Decoding ELO: When you stumble upon a coach with an impressive ELO rating, it's akin to being dazzled by a bright light – it's hard to look away. A high rating is undoubtedly impressive and speaks volumes about the individual's mastery over the game. However, while a high rating may be a testament to one's playing ability, it's not necessarily an indicator of their coaching caliber. Think of it like a world-class athlete; they might be experts in their sport, but would they necessarily make an excellent coach? Not always.

Beyond the Board: True, it's essential for a chess coach to be a proficient player. However, playing and teaching are two very distinct arenas. Some chess players might effortlessly navigate the game, thanks to their intuitive grasp. But the same innate abilities might become a stumbling block when it comes to tutoring. Why? Because what is instinctive for them might be a maze of confusion for a novice. For these experts, articulating strategies that they've internalized might prove challenging.

The Teaching Dynamic: What separates a great coach from a good player is the unique blend of understanding the game deeply and having the acumen to convey that understanding effectively. Effective teaching isn't just about knowledge transfer; it's about tailoring that knowledge to resonate with the student's current level, using relatable examples, and employing teaching techniques that cement the concepts. The ultimate test of a coach isn't just their ELO rating but whether their students consistently show improvement, enjoy the learning process, and carry forward the lessons in their gameplay.

Good Chemistry: At the heart of coaching lies the ability to connect. A brilliant coach possesses the knack to discern where a student's understanding falters and crafts a bridge of knowledge to close that gap. This requires immense patience, active listening, and adaptability. Hence, when scouting for a coach, don't get solely entranced by their ELO. Instead, seek out testimonials, request trial sessions, and evaluate their teaching methodology. Remember, in the world of chess coaching, the right fit matters more than just the digits of an ELO score

2. Tailored Lessons: The Gold Standard

The Personal Touch: Imagine going to a clothing store where every item is custom-made for you, fitting perfectly. That's how your chess lessons should be. A top-notch chess coach doesn't just hand out the same lessons to everyone. Instead, they take the time to design sessions just for you, based on how you play and based on your strengths and weaknesses.

Unpacking Your Game: By going through your games, a good coach can figure out what you're doing right and where you might be struggling. They'll celebrate your strong moves with you and guide you through the trickier parts.

The Right Questions: Imagine a coach who cares about every move you make, even the ones from past games. They'll ask about the openings you like and the ones you avoid. If you had a tough loss, they'd want to unpack that game with you, understanding where things might've gone off track. These questions show they care about your chess journey and are set on helping you improve in every way.

Beyond One-Size-Fits-All: Think about shoes: what fits one person perfectly might be uncomfortable for someone else. Chess lessons are similar. A great coach understands that everyone's chess journey is unique. They won't force you into a 'one-size-fits-all' mold. Instead, they'll adapt their teaching to what you specifically need, ensuring each lesson pushes you a step closer to your goals.

Targeting Weaknesses: We all have areas we can get better at, even in things we love and are good at. A standout chess coach will pinpoint these areas in your game. But they won't just point them out; they'll craft strategies and drills to turn those weaknesses into strengths.

In Conclusion: Tailored lessons aren't just a fancy term; they're the backbone of effective coaching. A coach who offers such precision and attention to your game is truly worth their weight in gold. So, as you venture into your chess journey, seek out those who offer you this gold standard in teaching.

3. Clarity in Communication: Breaking the Barrier

Universal Language of Chess: While chess has its own universal language, communicating nuances requires clear linguistic exchange. Accents can be beautiful, adding flavor to interactions, but they shouldn't hinder understanding.

The Comfort Quotient: It's essential to feel comfortable asking questions or seeking clarifications. If you're hesitating because you didn't understand a phrase or term, it could hamper your learning. Therefore, pick a chess coach that you can understand well! You need to be able to dedicate your mental energy to the chess concepts that you’re learning - NOT to trying to understand your chess coach’s accent!

4. The Price-Quality Conundrum

Value vs. Cost: At face value, a $10 lesson might look like you've hit the jackpot. But if you're aiming for significant growth, you might want to reconsider. Picking a chess coach isn't much different from choosing a new gadget. Would you go for a budget phone with basic features or invest in a high-end model that promises performance, durability, and excellence? Often, higher-priced lessons come with seasoned coaches, well-structured lessons, and top-notch learning materials.

Walking in My Shoes: Throughout my journey in the world of chess, I've had the privilege (and sometimes misfortune) of working with a spectrum of chess coaches. Some charged modest fees, and as tempting as those rates were, the lessons frequently mirrored the price – basic, lacking depth, and leaving me with more questions than answers. In contrast, when I invested more, I often found myself delving into intricately designed lessons, replete with insights, strategies, and the kind of wisdom only seasoned coaches can offer.

The ELO-Money Metric Explained: Let's simplify this. With a $20-per-lesson coach, maybe you get a boost of 50 ELO points and it takes you 3 months to get there. But with a $50-per-lesson expert, you also rocket up by 50 ELO points but you get there in 1 month. Which do you think is the better deal? Assuming did you weekly lessons, you spent $240 with the first coach but $200 with the second coach. The math is clear; pricier can mean better value. But, and this is crucial, price alone doesn't guarantee quality.

Striking the Balance: The ultra-expensive chess coaches, charging way beyond $80, might have you thinking you're getting elite training. But price tags can be just that – tags. It's essential to do your homework. Look into their teaching methodology, ask for references, maybe even sit in for a trial session. From my personal chess escapades, I've found the sweet spot tends to be between $40-75 per lesson. Here, you often find a balance of experience, structured lessons, and a coach who's genuinely invested in your growth.

If you're curious about what to pay, check out our extensive guide on how much chess lessons cost.

Diving into the Bargain Bin: Can you find a gem in the cheaper range? Absolutely! But brace yourself for a journey of trial and error. It's like searching for a needle in a haystack. You might strike gold with a passionate, upcoming coach who charges less, but it'll require patience and a willingness to switch until you find the right fit.

Parting Thought: Remember, in the world of chess coaching, value is king. Instead of looking at just the dollar amount, focus on what you're truly gaining. A right coach can accelerate your journey, making every penny spent an invaluable investment in your chess future.

5. Beyond Lesson Hours: The Accessibility Factor

24/7 Chess Support: While it's unreasonable to expect your coach to be available around the clock, their general responsiveness outside lesson hours speaks volumes about their commitment. Can you share a game you're proud of or seek advice on a tricky position? This accessibility can be invaluable.

Building a Relationship: Chess coaching goes beyond mere lessons. It's about building a mentor-mentee relationship. A coach who's genuinely invested will celebrate your wins and help you analyze your losses, even outside designated sessions.

6. Cultivating Independent Thought

The Independent Thinker: It's easy to become enamored with the idea of having an exact move for every situation. But a proficient chess coach will always prioritize nurturing your independent thinking. It's much like the age-old proverb: Do you want to be given a fish for a day, or do you want to learn the art of fishing to feed yourself for a lifetime?

Strategies and Situations: Chess is a vast ocean of possibilities, with countless situations arising from every move. While it's essential to know specific patterns and sequences, the true essence of the game lies in understanding the strategy behind each move. Why is a particular move beneficial? What is the underlying principle? A remarkable coach will immerse you in this deeper understanding, enabling you to apply learned strategies in a myriad of game situations.

Equipping You With Tools: Imagine entering a craftsman's workshop. Instead of just finished products, you see tools, materials, and works in progress. This is the environment a good coach cultivates – they provide you with a toolkit of techniques, frameworks, and concepts. With these at your disposal, you're not just replicating someone else's moves; you're crafting your own masterpieces on the board.

Beyond Rote Learning: While there's a place for memorization in chess (think opening long-winded variations or endgame patterns), it shouldn't be the crux of your learning. I once had a coach who, much to my dismay, seemed to recite opening lines as if he was reading them straight out of a book. It felt stagnant, uninspired, and frankly, unhelpful. The real magic happens when a coach goes beyond this, diving into the intricacies of the game and stimulating critical thinking.

The Value of 'How': It's relatively easy (and often more profitable for them) for a coach to instruct you on 'what' to think. After all, dictating moves and sequences doesn't require much effort. But the true mark of an exceptional coach lies in teaching you 'how' to think. This approach demands patience, expertise, and a deep passion for the game. But the dividends it pays in your development are immeasurable.

In Conclusion: Chess, at its heart, is a game of the mind. And while patterns and sequences have their place, the true joy and progress come from a profound understanding of the game's essence. Seek a coach who doesn't just fill your mind with moves, but one who equips you with the tools to chart your own path in the chess world.

7. The Chess Doctor

Chess Ailments: Everyone has them - those pesky recurring mistakes or blind spots in their game. A great chess coach, much like a doctor, will pinpoint these areas and work with you to remedy them.

Custom Training Regimens: Whether it's tactical puzzles to sharpen your eye, specific openings to expand your repertoire, or endgame techniques, a good coach will "prescribe" the right training based on your needs. This ties in with finding a coach who will personalize your learning, rather than provide a one-size-fits-all approach.

8. Evaluating Experience: Beyond the Numbers

Quantitative vs. Qualitative: While a coach boasting 20 years of experience might seem impressive, delve deeper. Who have they trained? What improvements did their students see? Sometimes, a younger coach with lesser quantitative experience but a fresh perspective might be a better fit.

The Balance of Energy and Wisdom: Sometimes, the raw energy and contemporary strategies of a young coach blend perfectly with the wisdom and experience of seasoned coaches. Find someone whose teaching style resonates with you.

9. The Intangibles: Enthusiasm, Charisma, and Passion

Vibe Matters: Ever walked into a room and felt an instant connection or disconnect based on someone's energy? The same goes for chess coaching. The enthusiasm and charisma a coach exudes can transform lessons from mundane to exhilarating. When a coach is genuinely passionate, it's palpable, and that energy can make all the difference in how you perceive and engage with the game.

Engaging Lessons: It's not just about relaying moves or strategies; it's about painting a vivid picture, telling a story, and making every game feel like an adventure. A charismatic chess coach doesn't just teach; they captivate, holding your attention and making every lesson an experience to look forward to.

Passion Beyond the Board: A truly passionate coach doesn't see chess as just a game; they see it as an art, a science, and a lifelong journey. Their eyes might light up when discussing a historical game, or they might get animated describing a particularly brilliant move by a grandmaster. This kind of passion is contagious, inspiring students to see chess not just as a hobby, but as a profound and enriching pursuit.

Building Connections: The beauty of charisma is that it often goes beyond the game. Such coaches tend to build stronger connections with their students, understanding their aspirations, fears, and dreams both on and off the board. This personal touch not only fosters a deeper student-teacher relationship but often translates to more tailored and effective coaching.

Fuel for Motivation: Let's be real; there will be days when your motivation wanes, when losses pile up, or when the game seems more challenging than ever. During these times, a coach's unwavering enthusiasm can be the spark you need to reignite your passion and drive. They remind you of the joy in every move, the thrill of every checkmate, and the endless possibilities the game offers.

In Conclusion: Chess, with its intricate moves and profound strategies, is undoubtedly a cerebral game. But the heart, the soul, the fire – these come from the intangibles. A coach who brings these qualities to the table doesn't just train a student; they inspire a lifelong love for the game. So, when scouting for a coach, don't just stop at their technical expertise. Look for the fire in their eyes, the passion in their voice, and the charisma that makes every lesson unforgettable.

10. The Friend in a Coach

Beyond the Board: A coach shouldn't just be a face you see during lessons. Ideally, they should be someone you can discuss, debate, and even banter about chess with. This camaraderie can make learning more organic and enjoyable.

Trust and Respect: As with any meaningful relationship, trust and mutual respect form the foundation of a successful coaching relationship.

11. Adaptive Lessons

Flexibility in Approach: A fixed, rigid lesson plan isn't always the best. Sometimes, a game you played last night could offer more learning value than a pre-planned topic. Your coach should be adaptable, turning lessons into dynamic conversations.

Feedback Loop: Express your doubts, challenge ideas, and ask questions. A good coach will appreciate this feedback, making lessons more interactive and productive.

Step-By-Step Guide on How to Find A Chess Coach

Step 1 – Clarify Your Goals

‍Start with the fundamental question: "Why do I want a chess coach?" Define your objectives clearly.

• Are you in it for the long haul or just looking for a temporary guide?
• Is your aim to elevate your rating? And by how much? Knowing your answers will help the potential coach align with your goals. Just as you wouldn't order food without specifying the dish, don't embark on your coaching journey without clarity.

Essential Questions to Ask:

• What’s my long-term goal in chess?
• My immediate objective?
• What resources (time & money) am I willing to dedicate?

Step 2 – Investigate Wisely

‍Spend time doing your homework. Finding the right fit will save you tons of time and effort in the long run.

1. Google around: Ask friends, but focus on results, not just satisfaction.
2. Online Portals: Sites like Lichess feature chess coach profiles. Yet, be cautious; not every player-turned-coach is right for the job. Seek passionate mentors, not just those trying to make a quick buck or make you their experiment.
3. MyChessTutor: How about a trusted platform that’s already done the hard work for you? We’ve already put together 26 of the finest chess instructors in the world - each of whom passed our extremely rigorous selection process. Improve your chess today!

Step 3 – Interview Prospective Coaches

‍Propose a one-on-one chat over Zoom or phone. It’s essential to vibe with your coach, and this initial discussion will offer a taste of what's to come.

Step 4 – Step-by-Step Commitment

‍Go slow. Instead of locking in many hours upfront, start with a few sessions. A genuine coach will respect your decision to evaluate before diving deep.

Step 5 – Build Trust

‍Once you've locked in on a coach, trust their methodology. Seasoned mentors often have tried-and-tested techniques that might seem unusual but bear fruit with commitment.

So, gear up and embark on this quest to find your ultimate chess mentor. And always remember: every grandmaster was once a student too!

FAQs: Navigating the Chess Coaching World

Navigating the intricate lanes of chess learning can sometimes raise more questions than answers. Here's a rundown on some frequently asked questions to guide you on your chess journey on how to find a chess coach:

1. Are group lessons effective for serious improvement?

Answer: While group lessons offer camaraderie and can be enjoyable, they aren't typically ideal for significant chess improvement. Everyone's chess journey is unique, and a group setting might hinder the personal attention and tailored strategies you need. However, for advanced players, small, carefully curated group lessons can add value by exposing you to diverse styles and strategies.

2. How should I balance lessons with a coach and self-study with books or online courses?

Answer: Think of them as two sides of the same coin. Your coach will typically guide you towards materials that complement their teachings. In today's digital age, while we're lucky to have vast resources at our fingertips, it's also easy to get lost in the sea of information. Your coach acts as a compass, pointing you to what's most relevant for your growth.

3. Is self-improvement in chess possible without a coach?

Answer: Absolutely, but it's a road less traveled for a reason. A coach illuminates your blind spots and accelerates your growth. On your own, you might be limited by the "you don't know what you don't know" conundrum. However, if you're tight on budget, self-improvement with dedication can work wonders. But, if you can invest, a great coach is an asset, offering returns far exceeding their fee.

4. How soon can I expect to see results from my coaching?

Answer: With the right guidance, you'll notice changes in your perspective and approach almost immediately. A competent coach will pinpoint "quick wins" in your strategy and thinking to give you an instant boost. However, remember that deep, transformative improvement is a marathon, not a sprint. You may need to unlearn some habits and strategies, and sometimes, growth might appear as regression before blooming into true progress. But keep the faith and trust the journey. Over time, under the guidance of a dedicated coach, the path will unfurl, leading you to chess mastery. Stay patient and trust the process. Your passion combined with your coach's expertise is a winning match!

5. What if chess lessons are for my child?

Your approach will remain largely the same. However, you do want to find an instructor who can meet your child at their level. If you really want to set-up your child for success, we've written an extensive guide on how to teach your child chess.

6. How long should my lessons be and how often should I schedule them?

Answer: The ideal duration for lessons can vary based on age, commitment level, and prior experience. For younger enthusiasts, 30-minute sessions strike the right balance, keeping their attention without overwhelming them. For adults or more advanced young players, lessons lasting 45-60 minutes tend to be the most effective. This duration provides a solid window to delve deep into strategies, analyze games, and still leave time for questions and clarifications.

As you become more seasoned in the game, and as your stamina for deep thinking improves, longer sessions can become more beneficial. They allow for a more extensive exploration of strategies, more in-depth game analysis, and the opportunity to simulate real tournament conditions.

Regarding frequency, consistency is key to building and retaining new skills. Starting with once a week is a tried-and-true approach that ensures you maintain momentum in your learning journey. If you stretch out lessons too far apart, it's easy to lose the rhythm and focus of your training. For those who are exceptionally serious about their chess goals and are looking to make rapid strides, considering more than one lesson per week can be advantageous. Remember, the most crucial aspect is the quality of the time spent in each session, coupled with your dedication to applying lessons in practice games and self-study. With the right balance, you'll be making checkmates in no time!

Conclusion: Your Move

The journey to find the ideal chess coach mirrors the intricacies of a well-thought-out game. It's filled with patience, strategy, discernment, and often a touch of gut feeling. Yet, when you find that perfect mentor, every step, every move you undertake becomes a leap towards chess mastery. It's crucial to understand that in this vast chessboard of knowledge and learning, the real victory lies not just in the destination but in cherishing the voyage. With the perfect coach by your side, this voyage becomes nothing short of a grand, enlightening adventure.

Why embark on this quest alone when you can have seasoned experts guiding your way? At MyChessTutor, we've done the meticulous work for you. Our rigorous selection process, with an acceptance rate of only 6%, ensures that only the crème de la crème of instructors get the honor to teach our students. Every coach in our academy not only checks all the boxes discussed above but goes above and beyond to offer personalized, passionate, and effective guidance.

Our promise is simple: We offer not just coaches, but mentors who have walked the path, faced the challenges, and are equipped to guide you with wisdom and expertise. We've done the hard work sourcing the finest, so you can focus solely on your growth.

So, are you ready to make your next best move? Dive into the world of elite chess coaching with MyChessTutor. Let's embark on this journey to learn chess together. After all, on the chessboard of life, having the right mentor is your ultimate checkmate.

Sign up with MyChessTutor and let your grand adventure begin!

-Priyav, Owner & Chief Chess Officer at MyChessTutor