Alexander Kotov

Alexander Kotov (1913-1981) was a Soviet chess Grandmaster and influential chess author whose books had a significant impact on chess training methodology. His most famous work, "Think Like a Grandmaster," introduced important concepts about chess thinking and planning that are still referenced by players today. Kotov achieved considerable success as a player, winning the Soviet Championship in 1948 and earning the title of International Grandmaster in 1950. He also served as a second to World Champion Mikhail Botvinnik and participated in notable tournaments during the 1950s and early 1960s. His written works focused heavily on chess psychology and systematic thinking processes at the board. The concept of "candidate moves" and his analysis of time management issues, including what became known as "Kotov's Syndrome" (spending too much time on early moves), became fundamental aspects of chess training. As a chess journalist and author, Kotov wrote several other significant books including "Play Like a Grandmaster" and "Train Like a Grandmaster," completing a trilogy that solidified his legacy as one of chess literature's most important contributors to strategic thinking and training methods.

Readers consistently praise Kotov's clear explanations of how grandmasters analyze positions and select moves. His book "Think Like a Grandmaster" receives particular attention for its concrete method of organizing chess thoughts and calculations. What readers liked: - Practical techniques for move selection - Clear examples from real games - Systematic approach to position analysis - Focus on thought process over pure theory What readers disliked: - Dated writing style and translations - Some consider his methods too rigid - Analysis trees can be overwhelming for beginners - Limited coverage of modern chess developments Ratings across platforms: - Goodreads: 4.2/5 (421 ratings) - Amazon: 4.4/5 (89 ratings) - Chess.com reviews: 4.5/5 (156 ratings) Reader quote: "Kotov gives you a framework to think systematically about chess positions. His candidate moves approach alone improved my game." - Chess.com reviewer Critical quote: "The calculation trees are overkill for club players. A simpler approach would serve beginners better." - Amazon review

Think Like a Grandmaster A chess training manual focused on teaching players how to analyze positions and find candidate moves systematically.

Play Like a Grandmaster An examination of strategic chess play through annotated grandmaster games, focusing on positional judgment and planning.

Train Like a Grandmaster A detailed study of chess training methods and techniques used by top players to improve their game.

The Soviet School of Chess A historical overview of chess development in the USSR and analysis of the training systems that produced many world champions.

Chess Tactics in Advanced Chess A collection of complex tactical problems and combinations from master-level games with detailed explanations.

Notes of a Soviet Master Autobiographical work containing Kotov's personal experiences and observations from his chess career.

Plan Like a Grandmaster An instructional book focusing on strategic planning in chess and how to create long-term plans during games.

Mikhail Tal wrote detailed analysis of attacking chess games from the player's perspective. His books contain extensive explanations of the thought process during complex combinations.

Mark Dvoretsky focused on chess training methods and positional understanding. His works break down strategic concepts through structured lessons and exercises.

Jacob Aagaard writes about calculation and decision-making processes in chess. His training materials emphasize concrete thinking methods and practical problem-solving skills.

John Nunn provides mathematical precision in chess analysis and instruction. His books contain thorough examinations of endgame theory and tactical themes.

Vladimir Vukovic wrote about the principles of chess attack and defense. His work systematically categorizes different types of attacking patterns and defensive techniques.