Ezraline_Alvarez

Hi Ezraline_Alvarez!

Great job hovering around the 1800-2000 level and consistently challenging higher-rated opponents. Below is a personalised review of your recent games together with an action plan to help you reach the next milestone.

What you are already doing well

• Dynamic rook lifts: In many Queen’s-Pawn structures you play Rf3-h3/Rg3, quickly swinging a rook across to the kingside (see moves 11-15 of your latest win). This shows good board vision and willingness to attack.
• Central pawn breaks: You are not afraid to play pawn breaks such as e4/e5 or c4 to open lines for your pieces.
• Keeping initiative in blitz: Your victories often come from maintaining pressure while keeping a healthy clock edge.

Areas that deserve attention

• Conversion technique in endgames: Several losses (e.g. vs Bernadette Galas) came after reaching materially equal or even favorable endgames but allowing counter-play. Endgames with rook + passed pawn vs rook were especially shaky.
• Defensive alertness: In the Sicilian losses you missed tactical resources such as Rxd7 or Nxf6+ leading to exposed kings. Strengthening your prophylactic thinking can save many rating points.
• Predictable opening menu: With White you almost always play 1.d4 e3 Bd3 f4. Strong opponents are beginning to steer positions into sidelines they know better. Adding one extra system (e.g. the London System or Catalan ideas) will make you less predictable.
• Time-management on defence: In tough positions you often burn the clock and fall under 10 seconds (two recent losses were on time). Learning to make “good enough” defensive moves quickly is critical in 3|2 & 5|0 games.

Targeted action plan

1. Endgame drill (15-20 min a day)
   • Focus on Lucena position, Philidor position, and rook-vs-rook+pawn endings.
   • Practise with Lichess/Chess.com endgame trainer until you can convert or hold within 15 seconds.
2. Add one flexible opening
   • Study 6-8 model games in the London or Catalan and play at least 20 blitz games testing it. Variety will make your middlegame structures richer.
3. Structured tactics routine
   • 25 puzzles/day split 70 % defensive motifs (counter-punches, intermezzos) and 30 % attacking.
   • Mark puzzles you miss and review weekly.
4. “Three-question” habit in opponent’s time
   Ask yourself:
   ① What changed after my last move?
   ② What is my opponent’s threat?
   ③ If I had to move instantly, what safe move could I make?
   Doing this consistently will cut down time spent when the clock is ticking.

Quick stats & progress trackers

Peak rapid rating: 1884 (2020-12-26)
Win-rate by time of day:

Game to revisit

Your latest win shows several of your strengths but also two moments where the advantage almost slipped. Try annotating it yourself, then compare with an engine:

Final encouragement

Small, consistent improvements in endgame technique and defensive vigilance will propel you past the 2000 barrier. Keep the fighting spirit and enjoy the process—good luck in your next games!