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StrategyLast Updated: 2026-07-18
Prophylaxis
"Anticipating and preventing the opponent's plan before carrying out your own."
In-Depth Explanation
Prophylactic thinking asks what the opponent would play if given a free move. A useful preventive move can remove counterplay, deny a pawn break, or take away a piece square. Good prophylaxis improves the position too; purely defensive moves can waste time when no real threat exists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does prophylaxis mean in chess?
Anticipating and preventing the opponent's plan before carrying out your own.
How can I practice prophylaxis?
Study model positions, explain the idea in your own words, and test the key decisions on the interactive board.
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