Blocking is putting a piece on the line between an attacking piece and its target, most often to stop a check. Only a check along a line can be blocked.
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A check can be answered three ways: move the king, capture the checker, or block. A block that also develops a piece turns a forced move into a useful one.
How to do it
- 1When in check, list all three answers: move, capture, block.
- 2Prefer a block that develops a piece or defends something.
- 3Make sure the blocking piece is safe there.
For your level
The best block also develops or defends. A block that does nothing else gives the attacker a free move.
Common mistakes
- Moving the king when a block would have been better.
- Blocking with a piece that had an important job elsewhere.
Questions
- Can you block a check from a knight?
- No. A knight jumps, so there is no line to block. Against a knight check you must move the king or capture the knight.