Fine Chess Academy
Level Test
Two questions and six puzzles, about two minutes. Get an estimated level and what to work on next.
Open Level Test →Puzzle Playground
Find the best move. Six levels, hints and streaks. Solve five in a row to move up.
Open Puzzle Playground →Mating Patterns
23 checkmate patterns with practice puzzles, from the back-rank mate to Anastasia's and Arabian mates, plus a bishop and knight checkmate lesson.
Open Mating Patterns →Square Trainer
Learn every square by name. Find it, name it, or call it light or dark in 30‑second rounds.
Open Square Trainer →Openings
26 common openings with their main lines and named sidelines. Drill yourself until you can name them on sight.
Open Openings →Private lessons
One-on-one lessons in McKinney or online, for kids and adults. The first lesson is free.
Book a free lessonNot sure where to start?
Just learning
Learn the squares in the Square Trainer, then the "Start here" mates in Mating Patterns.
Playing games
Do a few puzzles every day and work through the core mating patterns.
Ready for more
Study the openings you play and the advanced patterns. Take the Level Test to see where you stand.