As we progress as chess players we quickly learn a set of guidelines which help us to formulate plans, develop typical strategies and recognize key tactics. However, chess is not an easy game, with fixed 'rules' that can be applied to every single position. In fact, blindly following such rules proves to be counterproductive and prevents a player from moving on to the next level, whereas knowing when to 'break' these rules is precisely the skill which separates the best from the rest.

In this instructive book, Grandmaster Neil McDonald studies in depth the key components of successful rule-breaking in chess. Drawing upon his own experience and using illuminating examples from modern grandmaster chess, McDonald examines how to avoid stereotypical thinking, how to exploit typical thinking patterns, and how to confuse and beat opponents with surprising ideas.

• Enhance your chess strategy and creativity
• Recognize and exploit typical thinking processes
• Covers opening, middlegame and endgame play

Neil McDonald is a Grandmaster who has firmly established himself as one of the world's leading chess writers, with many outstanding works to his name.

Content:
005 Introduction

007 1. The Anarchist of the Chessboard

023 2. The Power of Ugly Pawn Moves

040 3. Breaking the Rhythm of the Struggle

056 4. The King as All Action Star

069 5. Wait with White, Provoke with Black!

092 6. Living on the Edge

111 7. Time is Not of the Essence

128 8. Are You a Rule-Breaker? Take the Test!

135 9. Solutions

158 Index of Openings 159 Index of Complete Games