Frequently Asked Questions: skewer intermediate

What makes a skewer intermediate instead of a basic skewer?

A basic skewer is often immediate, while a skewer intermediate requires an extra forcing move or setup before the line attack works. The puzzle is about finding that in-between move that makes the skewer possible.

What pieces are most often involved in a skewer intermediate?

The most common skewers involve bishops, rooks, and queens because they attack along lines. The front piece is usually a king, queen, or rook, with a more valuable piece sitting behind it on the same line.

How do I know if an intermediate move is the right one?

The right intermediate move usually forces a reply and changes the alignment of the enemy pieces. If the move creates a direct line attack on a more valuable piece after the front piece moves, it is likely the key skewer idea.

Can a skewer intermediate happen with a check?

Yes, checks are a common way to create the intermediate move. A forcing check can make the opponent move the front piece, which then exposes the piece behind it to the skewer.