An opening repertoire you can actually remember

Most opening files are too large to be useful during a real game. You do not need twenty moves against every sideline. You need a position you recognise…

Most opening files are too large to be useful during a real game. You do not need twenty moves against every sideline. You need a position you recognise and a plan you trust.

Start with one answer to 1.e4 and one to 1.d4. For each opening, write down where the pieces normally belong, which pawn break changes the position, and the mistake you make most often.

Keep the file small One main line you expect to see often Two common sidelines Three model games worth replaying One page of your own mistakes

When you forget a move, do not immediately add more theory. Ask whether you understood the position before the move. If the answer is no, a model game will probably help more than another variation.

A repertoire is useful when it gets you to move ten with time on the clock and an idea in your head.