Post Mortem Chess Puzzles
In chess, a post mortem is the review of a game after it ends, usually with your opponent, a coach, or on your own. The goal is to understand critical moments, identify mistakes, and see which plans or tactics worked better than expected. For an intermediate player, it is one of the fastest ways to improve because it connects the result to the actual decisions made on the board.
You can spot a useful post mortem by focusing on turning points: missed tactics, unclear plans, time trouble, and endgame errors. Start by asking where the evaluation changed and whether a different move would have improved the position. Use the review to separate calculation errors from strategic misunderstandings, then save the key lessons so you do not repeat them in future games.
Frequently Asked Questions: post mortem
- What does post mortem mean in chess?
- A post mortem is the analysis of a finished chess game. Players review the moves, discuss critical positions, and try to understand what each side could have done better.
- When should I do a post mortem?
- Do it soon after the game, while the ideas and emotions are still fresh. Even a short 10-minute review can reveal important mistakes and better plans.
- Should I analyze alone or with my opponent?
- Both are useful. A joint post mortem can show you how your opponent saw the position, while solo analysis lets you think deeply before checking with an engine or coach.
- How can post mortem help me improve faster?
- It helps you spot recurring errors in tactics, strategy, and time management. By reviewing your own games regularly, you build stronger pattern recognition and make fewer repeat mistakes.