Dynamic Decision Making in Chess | Gelfand

"Dynamic Decision Making in Chess" is a profound exploration of the decision-making processes at the highest levels of chess, authored by former World Championship Challenger Boris Gelfand, with contributions from Jacob Aagaard.

This book delves into Gelfand's own games, providing insights into both his successes and mistakes, allowing readers to understand the complexities of dynamic play. Through deeply annotated examples and honest reflections, readers gain a rare look into the thinking of an elite grandmaster during critical moments.

The book includes analysis of 45 annotated games that illustrate key concepts such as tactical mistakes, compensation, and the importance of timing in dynamic positions. Structured into eight informative chapters, it explores various aspects of dynamic chess while featuring famous games from notable players such as Petrosian.

With its blend of personal anecdotes and deep analysis, "Dynamic Decision Making in Chess" is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their game.

• Recommended for advanced players and serious enthusiasts seeking to improve tactical decision-making
• Learn which positions require bold, active, and sometimes risky decisions to maintain the initiative
• Gelfand provides candid insights into his thinking during critical moments of dynamic games
• Includes deeply analysed games and positions from Gelfand’s illustrious career
• Teaches when to trust intuition and when to rely on precise calculation in dynamic settings
• You can watch Boris Gelfand’s accompanying lecture on YouTube

Reader’s Reviews

“Gelfand is very good – and very honest – at explaining which decisions he could calculate and which decisions he needed to take on the basis of judgment, and how he did that… It adds up to the type of book I love… I think this book has masses to teach any strength of player.” GM Matthew Sadler, New in Chess

“The most useful decision-making chess guide I have ever read.” GM David Smerdon

“A revelation.” GM Lubomir Kavalek

“Gelfand has given us a superlative book… This might well be the book of the year, and serious students of modern chess practice should not miss out on its lessons.” John Hartmann, Chess Life

About the Authors

Jacob Aagaard is the only chess writer to have won all the major awards for chess writing. He is Scotland's third-highest rated player as of July 2021, with an Elo rating of 2477 and a peak rating of 2542. He placed second in the Scottish Chess Championship in 2004 and first in 2005, although the title went to Craig Pritchett due to citizenship rules. In 2012, he won the championship outright. Aagaard is also a renowned chess author and co-owner of Quality Chess, a leading chess publishing house.

Boris Gelfand is a six-time World Championship candidate (1991, 1994–95, 2002, 2007, 2011, 2013). He won the Chess World Cup 2009 and the 2011 Candidates Tournament, earning the right to challenge for the World Chess Championship 2012. Although his match against defending champion Viswanathan Anand finished level at 6–6, Gelfand lost the rapid play tiebreak by 2½–1½.

Other Details

• Format: Hardback & Paperback
• Pages: 288
• Dimensions: 6.74 x 0.5 x 9.42 inches
• ISBN-13: 978-1784830120