In this first puzzler White needs to keep both pieces, or trade the knight for the bishop – no simple task. For example 1.Rc6 looks promising, since 1…Kxh8 is impossible, due to 2.Rc8+ and 3.Rxb8. But Black has 1…Bg3+, after which 2…Kxh8 is possible and leads to a draw. In the above diagram, where you can move the pieces, the engine is switched off. You have to find the only first move, and the strategy that ensures a white win.
Two rooks vs queen is pretty much equal, but the black king is trapped on the eighth rank – and must be kept there. But how to prevent the black queen from moving out and giving perpetual checks and draw the game. Here you can try winning against the diagram engine, which will defend with the black pieces. Can you defeat it?
This is a very nice study where the diagram will defend tenaciously with the black pieces – unless you find the surefire win for White. Try it, be surprised and learn.
This is a very nice study in trapping a rook – which of course be taken while leaving the two white minor pieces intact. Can you manage it against the diagram?
The sources and solutions to all the above studies will be given as video explanations in a week from now. Do try to solve them yourself, and grasp the salient points they encapsulate. It will enhance your skills in similar endgame position you might encounter during your games.
And naturally, do not post solutions in the feedback section below. Use it to tell us, generally, how you fared with the problems, whether you were able to solve them.
