Pins, forks, x-rays, skewers and other tactical patterns.
Skewer
Attack on a valuable piece that, when it moves, exposes another.
Pin
Piece immobilized because it is protecting a more valuable one.
Fork
One piece attacks two or more targets at the same time.
X-Ray Attack
Attack that goes through one piece to reach another behind it.
Discovered Attack
By moving one piece, another reveals its attack.
Double Attack
Simultaneous threat on two targets with a single move.
Deflection
Force a defender to abandon its protective role.
Attraction
Lure an opposing piece to an unfavorable square.
Removing the Defender
Capture or remove the piece protecting a target.
Overloading
Exploit a piece that is defending too much at once.
Zugzwang
Position where any move worsens the situation.
Interference
Block the defensive line between two opposing pieces.
Discovered Check
By moving one piece, another delivers check to the king.
Positional Sacrifice
Give up material to gain long-lasting positional advantage.