28 Apr '08 09:51>
Originally posted by robbie carrobieWhy reinvent the wheel?
mmm, this is the thing, what do you guys think? this apparent ambiguity, if it is indeed ambiguous, i don't know, anyway, here is the thing, is it not true that when we are concerned with principles and ideas in chess, does this not do away with the need for learning specific variations by the barrowlod, as these ideas are our focus, the moves just a ...[text shortened]... strategic goal and to try and work towards achieving that aim, any insight, most appreciated.😀
A sound knowledge of strategic principles and a comprehensive grasp of tactics coupled with accurate calculation may very well carry you through any game but as soon as you get into complex tactical openings you will undoubtedly lose on time as you will have insufficient to calculate a myriad of variations through correctly. In such games it pays to know the correct and best move as it will save you a lot of time and increase the chances that your opponent will make a mistake.
Strategically should you develop your N or B on move 4 of your favorite opening. Both develop a minor piece and control important squares but in certain openings one may be decisively better due to the pawn placement 20 moves down the line (for example). Now you could spend all your time working out which or you could rely on the wealth of experience from previous generations of GMs to decide quickly which is better.
Knowing your openings well saved inordinate amounts of time, enables you to capitalise on your opponents errors and lets you concentrate more on the critical phase of the game when you eventually get out of book and know what the strengths and weaknesses of your position are.