Lesson 20 of 20 · Endgame · 7 min

Defense Basics: Interposing and Running Early

Good defense saves games you would otherwise lose, and knowing when not to defend matters just as much.

Choose between capturing, interposing and moving the king when attacked.
Interpose next to the king or with a pawn, not far away.
Step the king out of a mating net before it closes.

When you are under attack, you have three tools: capture the attacking piece, block (interpose), or move the king. Look for them in that order, but check each one.

Interposing: when a rook, bishop or lance checks from a distance, you can drop a piece in between. Interpose next to your king or with a pawn; a piece dropped far away is often captured and handed to your opponent.

🔒 2 more cards and 2 more practice positions continue in the app.

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Opponent

Youno pieces in hand

Practice 1 of 1

White threatens mate with the knight and a gold in hand. Defend by moving the king.

Remember: Defend by capturing the attacker, interposing next to the king or with a pawn, or running early. Count the race first—only defend real threats.