Chess Chess Rules and Notation

Question 1

In algebraic notation, how is a pawn capture written?

Accepted Answer

exd5 (file of capturing pawn × destination square)

Answer

Pxd5

Answer

pawn takes d5

Answer

d4xd5

Question 2

What are the symbols '+' and '#' in chess notation?

Accepted Answer

+ means check, # means checkmate

Answer

+ means checkmate, # means check

Answer

+ means castle, # means draw

Answer

+ means good move, # means bad move

Question 3

What is 'en passant' and when can it be used?

Accepted Answer

Capturing a pawn that just moved two squares as if it had only moved one, available only on the very next move

Answer

Capturing any pawn that has moved two squares from the start

Answer

A special pawn move available when the enemy king is in check

Answer

A pawn capture that can be delayed and used any time

Question 4

What are the conditions required for castling to be legal?

Accepted Answer

King and rook haven't moved, no pieces between them, king not in check and doesn't pass through check

Answer

King and rook haven't moved, and the king has at least one move available

Answer

The king is not in check and at least three squares separate it from the rook

Answer

No pieces between king and rook, and the rook has not moved

Question 5

In standard algebraic notation, what does 'O-O' represent?

Accepted Answer

Kingside castling

Answer

Queenside castling

Answer

A null move (passing a turn)

Answer

A draw offer

Question 6

What is the 'fifty-move rule' in chess?

Accepted Answer

A player can claim a draw if 50 consecutive moves have been made by both sides without a pawn move or capture

Answer

A game is automatically drawn after 50 moves total

Answer

A player must move within 50 seconds or forfeit a point

Answer

After 50 moves, the player with more material automatically wins