Do I have to say check in chess?

No. In tournament chess you do not need to announce check, and doing so repeatedly can disturb your opponent. In casual games, some players say it as a courtesy, especially with beginners.

Is it rude to play on in a lost chess position?

No. Playing on is your right. It only becomes a problem if you are doing it to irritate your opponent rather than because you still see a chance.

Do I have to shake hands before a chess game?

A handshake is customary rather than required everywhere, and some events have their own rules. Pointedly refusing one to be rude can be treated as unsporting behaviour.

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Tournament play · 2 min read

Chess etiquette: respecting your opponent

Chess etiquette exists mostly to protect both players' concentration, and some of it is a rule: the Laws forbid distracting or annoying your opponent.

The standard is simple. Nothing you do at the board should make the game about you.

Before the game

Arrive on time and set up your own pieces only.
Offer a handshake, or a nod and "good luck" where that is the custom.
Leave your opponent's rating, age and record out of the conversation.

During the game

Stay quiet. Offering a draw and saying "I adjust" are fine. Sighing, humming and drumming fingers can be penalised.
Move and press the clock with the same hand, without slamming either.
Make one draw offer, then play on. Repeated offers are a distraction.
Getting up quietly is fine. Pacing beside your opponent is not.

Resigning and results

Resign clearly, by saying so and offering a handshake. Do not sweep the pieces off the board.
Playing on in a lost position is your right, if you are playing for a chance.
Sign both scoresheets and report the result. If you won, do not lecture.
Analysing together afterwards is a courtesy, not a right. Leave the hall if games are still running.

Parents and coaches

Stay out of the playing area if the event asks. No signals or comments during a game.
Coaches must not discuss a game in progress with their player.
Teach the handshake, the silence and the signed scoresheet along with the moves.

Key takeaways

Silence and stillness are the core of chess etiquette.
Distracting or annoying your opponent is against the rules.
Resign clearly, sign the scoresheet, congratulate the winner.
Nothing at the board should make the game about you.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to say check in chess?: No. In tournament chess you do not need to announce check, and doing so repeatedly can disturb your opponent. In casual games, some players say it as a courtesy, especially with beginners.
Is it rude to play on in a lost chess position?: No. Playing on is your right. It only becomes a problem if you are doing it to irritate your opponent rather than because you still see a chance.
Do I have to shake hands before a chess game?: A handshake is customary rather than required everywhere, and some events have their own rules. Pointedly refusing one to be rude can be treated as unsporting behaviour.