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About Discovered Attack

A discovered attack happens when you move one piece out of the way and reveal an attack from a piece behind it. Because two things happen at once — the moving piece can make its own threat while the unmasked piece attacks another target — discovered attacks are among the most powerful tactics in chess. When the revealed attack is a check, it becomes a discovered check, and the moving piece can grab material with impunity. The most brutal form is the double check. These {count} discovered-attack puzzles train you to set up and spring these devastating one-two punches.

Frequently asked questions

What is a discovered attack?

It is a tactic where moving one piece reveals an attack by another piece behind it, creating two threats at once so the opponent cannot meet both.

What is a discovered check?

A discovered check is a discovered attack where the unmasked piece gives check. The moving piece is free to capture or create a second threat while the opponent must answer the check.

Why are discovered attacks so strong?

They generate two threats in a single move. The defender can usually parry only one, so you come out ahead.

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