Tips for implementation of initiative

Initiative in chess is a benefit of an active side, which can impose a style and tempo of a game, prepare and carry out an attack. Initiative means time and activity, and therefore is an advantage. How to take the initiative?

Capablanca, the third world champion, gave a piece of advice, "Seize the initiative whenever possible. Having the initiative is already an advantage."

White, having made the first move, has the initiative in their hands. In order to keep the initiative, White needs to seize the center. Therefore, the first pawn moves to e4 or d4 are the strongest moves, opening the way for two pieces at once: the queen and the bishop.

Black's goal is to seize the initiative as soon as they get an opportunity. The black pieces have a defensive role: they must prevent White from carrying out their plan or prepare for defense.

"A chess player who is brave and knows a lot about defense will put up persistent resistance for Black; when White's initiative dries up, Black will be able to turn the game in their favor", Capablanca writes.

Thus, a chess player who has the initiative has an advantage in tempo or space, which inclines their opponent to a defensive strategy. Therefore, having seized the initiative, it is necessary to take it.