Alexandra Prado WCM

Feedback for Alexandra Prado

Alexandra, you've shown solid fundamentals and a fighting spirit in your recent games. Here are some key points to help take your play to the next level:

• Opening Play: Your early development and king safety are generally well handled. For example, you castle promptly and develop pieces towards the center. To improve further, try to focus on opening principles such as controlling the center with pawns and pieces and developing knights before bishops when appropriate. Avoid early pawn moves like a3 and b3 without a clear plan, as these can slow your development.
• Tactical Awareness: You have sharp tactical vision as seen in your well-executed attacks, especially in games where you created mating threats efficiently (e.g., a swift queen-side mating net). To build on this strength, consider regular practice of tactical puzzles to sharpen calculation and spotting tactics earlier in the game.
• Time Management: Several games were lost due to time pressure. Improving your clock management is crucial, especially in longer games. Try to avoid spending too much time on less critical moves early on so that you're prepared for complex positions later.
• Endgame Technique: Some of your losses involved challenges converting or defending endgames. Studying fundamental endgames, like king and pawn, rook endgames, and minor piece advantages will help you gain more confidence and convert small advantages.
• Positional Understanding: Occasionally, there were missed opportunities to improve piece activity or restrict your opponent’s counterplay. Try to ask yourself questions like, "Are all my pieces active?" or "How can I limit my opponent’s plans?" after each move.

Keep reviewing your games, especially those losses, to identify critical moments. Focus on learning from those and gradually incorporating improvements.

Strong areas to maintain and grow: tactical sharpness and attacking instincts. Areas for growth: time control discipline, opening efficiency, and endgame technique.

Keep up the good work and enjoy your chess journey!