For The Serious Student

by Barry Bell
"With computer databases and the amount of information available to students these days you would think that people who study chess to improve would be improving in leaps and bounds. "
Read more...

Will The Real Master Please Stand Up! by Barry Bell

"What is a chess master?

The great debate:

1) Some people believe that a player who reaches the level 2200 (rating points) is a chess master.
2) Others hold the opinion that you are not a real chess master unless you play (OTB) and reach a level of 2200.
3) Some believe the only true rating system is F.I.D.E. and you must reach a level of about 2300.
4) There are some people that believe until you reach the level of GM and you are awarded the title of GM by a committee that you have no right to call yourself a master.
5) Whereas others believe if you study a craft for 20 or more years you have the right to call yourself a master in that field."
Read More...