10 Openings Every Chess Player Must Memorise

10. Fool's Mate

The two-move checkmate is a speedy victory for black, resulting in a rather embarrassing defeat for white. For this, white must open by moving the pawn on F2; whether the pawn is moved to F3 or F4 makes no difference. Black then responds by moving the pawn on E7, again either to E6 or to E5. This opens up the black queen, giving her the ability to strike.

If white then moves the pawn on G2 to G4, they have sealed their fate. Black can simply move their queen from its starting position on D8 to H4, giving check along the diagonal to the white king. From this position, the black queen cannot be taken or blocked by any of whites pieces, with the white king completely pinned in. This variation can also happen if white opens with pawn to G4, and then plays pawn to F3 or F4 on their second turn; black, however, must open with pawn to E6 or E5.

Knowing the details of fool’s mate is essential, whether you are playing as white or black. Being able to identify whites mistake can lead to a quick and easy victory for the black player. As white, knowing the failings of this opening can save you from an embarrassing loss.