Chess and Mathematics: The Unseen Connection

Have You Noticed These?

Tato Shervashidze
theMUSINGS
Published in
2 min readJan 7, 2024

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Photo by ConvertKit on Unsplash

Have you ever thought, how Chess can easily resemble maths, but you can’t really put your finger on it?

Well, today, we’re going to fix that issue.

Here are some chess characteristics, that resemble mathematics. Let’s dive into it!

1. Pawn Structures

Image Credits:Chess.com

Think of pawn structures like simple math patterns. Each move is a piece of the puzzle, forming a strategic picture on the board.

Pawn positioning basically decides the whole outcome of the game, which is a great resemblance to mathematical equations, as one small mistake after another can slowly add up to disaster.

2. Probability in Tactics: Calculating the Odds of Success

Image Credits:Chess.com

Tactics aren’t just about intuition; they involve calculated risks.

Even the great tacticians, such as Mikhail Tal, Garry Kasparov or Magnus Carlsen, fail to see their tactical shots fully or misjudge their chances.

Frustrated Magnus Carlsen. Image Credits:Chess.com

This is due to the human mind’s limitations.

We’re not computers, so there’s no possible way of calculating every possible outcome.

Tactics resemble mathematics, as they’re a calculated pathway to solving a complexity. How wild!

3. Elo Rating: The Statistical Measurement of Chess Skill

Image Credits:Wikipedia

The Elo rating system, designed by mathematician Arpad Elo, is the mathematical core of chess.

It estimates players’ skill levels and predicts outcomes based on their performance. Essentially, it’s a numerical method that mirrors the rise and fall of skill in the world of chess.

To conclude, when you think, chess and mathematics are closer than they seem.

Thank you for reading!

You can check out more and support me here.

Until next time!

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Tato Shervashidze
theMUSINGS

Hi! I am an avid Chess lover, trying to help you become a better player everyday! See All My Services Here :bio.link/tatosher